Elgin Cathedral Churchyard

Elgin Cathedral Churchyard, Moray, Scotland

Visited August 2015

Surrounding the ruined Medieval cathedral in Elgin, north-east Scotland, is a churchyard dating mostly from the 17th to 19th century. There are a few early 20th century burials, but the cemetery is now closed to burials. There are also some very worn pre-16th century gravestones, most of which would have been within the cathedral itself, which dates from the 13th century. If you're into social history, then the Victorian area with extensive inscriptions is fascinating - here are the sailors, fishermen, butchers, postmen and provosts of the town, and the many, many children who died in infancy.

The site is run by Historic Scotland, so you have to pay to get in if you're not a member of Historic Scotland, English Heritage or similar.

West Norwood Cemetery

West Norwood Cemetery, London

Visited July 2012

During the summer of 2012, there was an art installation, "The Curious Art Trail" around West Norwood Cemetery in South London. Victorian cemetery plus site-specific art? That was a definite visit for me! Sadly I've lost most of my photos (always remember to back things up!). The trail was also present, with different art, in 2011 and 2013. Hopefully one day it'll be back again!

Model of Sir Henry Tate's mausoleum, made of sugar (because he made his fortune with sugar)

Cullerlie Stone Circle, Aberdeenshire

Cullerlie Stone Circle, Aberdeenshire

Visited August 2015

Cullerlie Stone Circle, on a side road heading from Aberdeen to Banchory, was originally a ritual site (oh, how I hate that phrase, but needs must!), a small stone circle of 8 uprights built in the Neolithic period, about 4000 years ago.  Unlike most stone circles in Aberdeenshire, this one isn't in the 'recumbent' style.

Eight burial cairns were constructed in the centre of it at a later, but still prehistoric, date, probably about 3,500 years ago, at least 5 of which contained a cremation. At about this time, most stone circles in this area were also being used for cremations.

This is pretty much impossible to reach if you don't have access to a car, and is situated right beside a working farm. But if you're in the area, maybe doing a tour of the stone circles of Aberdeenshire then make sure you include this one!

Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park

Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park

Visited May 2012

I've already blogged about Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park here, so I won't go into much detail. Suffice to say that on a sunny late spring/early summer day, the colours and light here are amazing and it's clear why this is a nature reserve as well as a cemetery. Visit - you won't regret it!