Discover Willesden Jewish Cemetery: A Hidden Gem in London

Thanks to a new injection of funding, London has an enriching historic attraction that invites exploration: the Willesden Jewish Cemetery, which is nestled in a tranquil residential area in the northwestern part of the city.

Willesden Jewish Cemetery holds a long and storied past, spanning nearly 150 years. Established in 1873, it features nearly 30,000 graves, arranged in the park-like style characteristic of London’s Magnificent Seven, which includes well-known sites such as Highgate Cemetery. Visitors can appreciate the tranquil grounds, elaborate tombs, and mausoleums adorned with intricate funerary motifs, making it an exceptional place for reflection.

Ingrid Sellman, a tour guide at Willesden Jewish Cemetery, highlights the importance of the site: “Many of the original burials are children of refugees. We want people to know how proud we are of being English while also honoring our Jewish ancestry. The deceased are given tremendous respect, reflecting our belief that one enters the world with nothing and leaves the same way.”

Guided Walks and Historical Exhibitions

For the first time, Willesden Jewish Cemetery is offering guided walks of the grounds, alongside an exhibition about its multifaceted history located in the former administration offices, now called the House of Life. Refurbished funerary buildings feature motion-sensor sound installations that delve into Jewish burial traditions, creating a reverent atmosphere of prayer and remembrance.

A Place of Significance

The cemetery is the final resting place of numerous significant individuals, including 23 members of the Rothschild family, fashion designer Kurt Geiger, painter Simeon Solomon, jewelry magnate H. Samuel, and DNA decoder Rosalind Franklin. Interestingly, her gravestone does not credit her with the discovery of the double helix structure, a significant scientific achievement acknowledged only after her passing.

Moreover, the stories of ordinary individuals interred here are equally valuable, and guided tours are frequently led by passionate volunteers with personal ties to the cemetery. These personal connections make the experience particularly poignant and meaningful.

Emma Weleminsky-Smith, the cemetery’s Activities and Volunteer Manager, emphasizes the commitment to showcasing the extensive variety of the Jewish experience: “We want to showcase the authentic diversity of Jewish lives, moving beyond just the narratives of the wealthy and renowned.”

Opening Hours and Donations

Willesden Jewish Cemetery is open from 10 am to 1 pm Monday through Thursday and until 4 pm on Sundays. While entry and guided tours are free, a suggested donation of £8 is welcomed to support the cemetery’s efforts. During the ongoing pandemic, the cemetery is also providing virtual events online, allowing for continued engagement with the community.