REAL Catacombs to visit in the UK

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If you're anything like me, you'll love visiting catacombs. I don't know what it is, we're supposed to be creeped out by them, but I guess some of us are just built differently.

Unfortunately, most Catacombs are located outside of the UK (obviously... the worlds a big place!). If you're looking to visit some right here on the mainland - worry not! I've got you covered...



01 | London Catacombs and Crypts

It comes as no surprise that there aren't just drainage systems beneath the streets of London... or an underground railway line. Yes, that's right, the dead also share that space with us - and not necessarily in the form of your simple graves! Here are some to add to your list:


London (The "Magnificent Seven"... or Five)

  • West Norwood Cemetery | There are estimated to be around 2,500 coffins beneath the Anglican Chapel which once stood in the grounds of West Norwood Cemetery. Unfortunately, access was restricted in the 1930's, but Lambeth Council are working to grant this.
  • Kensal Green Cemetery | There are 2 catacombs in Kensal Green; the larger one is closed due to health and safety, but you can reserve a spot on the tour which will take you to the smaller one.
  • Brompton Cemetery | The Catacombs at Brompton Cemetery can be accessed via a guided tour. The contents of these Catacombs were designed to hold thousands, though 500 were only ever actually sold.
  • Highgate Cemetery | This is arguably the most notable catacomb in the UK - and it is located in the West Side of the Cemetery, also only accessible via a tour.
  • Nunhead Cemetery | The ruined (by fire) catacombs here are generally closed, but they do open at certain times a year for special occasions, on guided tours only.

02 | Birmingham-Based Catacombs

  • Warstone Lane Cemetery | The Catacombs here contain 95 vaults, approximately 3,500 coffins and can be visited on a guided tour. 

  • Key Hill Cemetery | If you are interested in the Birmingham Catacombs, the Warstone tours mostly cover the Key Hill Catacombs too.



03 | Other Notable Locations

  • St James’ Cemetery, Liverpool | Closed for burials in 1936, St James' Cemetery allows for public access to the catacomb areas. There is also a series of tunnels, some of which are closed off. Tours are optional.

  • Exeter (Higher Cemetery) | This was almost not featured, as you actually can't enter these catacombs. However, you can certainly view them through the iron fences.

  • Edinburgh (Grange Cemetery) | Available to enter each Sunday in June from 2pm - 4pm.

Have you visited any of these? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

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