London Road Cemetery

London Road Cemetery encompasses 17 hectares of land, including a vast collection of notable trees species and monuments extending past the railway line. Being built on a former stone quarry, it is subject to hills and dells and is surrounded by mature elms now incorporated as the cemeteries main design.

Designed by Joseph Paxton in 1845 (renowned gardener, engineer and architect), it was originally called Coventry Cemetery and was formally opened in 1847. This was the only cemetery that Paxton designed, and the layout leads visitors into the space to enjoy the natural beauty of the space whilst visiting deceased loved ones. Born in 1803, Paxton was best known for his work in designing Crystal Palace for the Great Exhibition in 1851, and the re-design of Chatsworth Gardens. As London Road was the only cemetery Paxton designed, it has a unique design and layout. Paxton believed that public parks and cemeteries should incorporate a wide range of exotic trees to provoke excitement and interest in the space. The cemetery's buildings are designed to accommodate the layout of the trees and enhance the beauty of the landscape, to reflect tone of peace and remembrance.

The entrance lodge and prospect tower are prominent to create an air of dignity and elegance. The promenade allows visitors to view the cemetery holistically from an alternative angle, allowing for a more reflective experience. Two chapels were built for the cemetery. The design of the Nonconformist chapel is influenced by classical architecture to compliment the surrounding evergreen trees, whilst the Anglican chapel demonstrates a Norman architectural style and is surrounded by deciduous trees.

Find out more on our website: https://www.historiccoventry.org.uk/project/london-road-cemetry/