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Landmark

Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance

β˜… 4.6 (333)Free

Crossbones Graveyard began as an unconsecrated burial ground for 'single women' β€” medieval sex workers licensed within the Bishop of Winchester's jurisdiction β€” and later the capital's poor, with an estimated 15,000 burials before its closure in 1853; today the site is tended as a memorial garden by local volunteers, its gates covered in ribbons, tributes and handwritten messages. Reviewers with a 4.6 rating describe it as deeply moving rather than a typical sightseeing stop, particularly during the regular vigils held there, including one noting a service around remembrance and social justice. It's a quiet, reflective detour near Borough Market suited to visitors interested in London's overlooked social history rather than its grand monuments.

✨ Reasons to go

  • 1Originally an unconsecrated burial ground for medieval sex workers licensed under the Bishop of Winchester, later used for the capital's poor, with an estimated 15,000 burials before closing in 1853.
  • 2The gates are covered in ribbons and handwritten tributes, maintained by local volunteers as an active memorial rather than a conventional historic site.
  • 3A monthly vigil is held on the 23rd, including services addressing remembrance and social justice.

πŸ’‘ Good to know

  • 1Check for the regular monthly vigil, usually held on the 23rd, if you want to experience the site's community ritual firsthand
  • 2be respectful, as this remains an active memorial space tended by volunteers, not a conventional tourist sight
  • 3combine it with nearby Borough Market and Southwark Cathedral for a Bankside history walk.

⏱️ Typical visit

20 min

πŸ•°οΈ Best time

lunchtime

🚢 Walking intensity

Easy pace

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Address

Union St, London SE1 1TA, UKGoogleApple
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Booking

Walk-in

What people say

"I had 1 day in London and this was my main must see destination. It is a beautiful spot with so much love and rememberance. The statue tribute to transgender souls was very emotional. If you are near by when they are open, it is a must visit."

β€” Michaela Helliwell