Overview
Designed by famous architect Joseph Paxton, London Road Cemetery is an early example of the 19th century ‘garden cemetery’ movement, developed not only as a burial site but also as place of natural beauty for the people of Coventry to enjoy. Appointed in 1845, Paxton incorporated the hilly layout of the former quarry the site sits on into his design, and brought in a range of exotic trees from abroad. He also commissioned two chapels: a Nonconformist chapel designed to look like a classical temple and an Anglican Chapel in a Norman style.
Those buried in the cemetery include most of the city’s Victorian pioneers of transport, especially in the emerging bicycle and car industries. There are also many fine monuments, including one at the main entrance dedicated to Joseph Paxton himself, which was designed by Joseph Goddard.
Thanks to National Lottery players, Historic Coventry Trust and Coventry City Council have completed a restoration project in the cemetery funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the National Lottery Community Fund. The Anglican Chapel, the raised promenade and the old cemetery entrance have all been restored and new interpretation has been installed to tell the stories of site’s residents and natural heritage.
In 2022, initial repair works are taking place to the nonconformist chapel (funded by Historic England), in-advance of works to find a new use for this special building.
What's on
Podcast Series
Download and listen in the recently restored London Road Cemetery: Paxton’s Arboretum. Enjoy a gentle meander through the landscape uncovering the fascinating heritage stories.
- S1E1 Paxton’s Arboretum – In conversation with author Kate Colquhoun and landscape architect Colin Burden about the life and achievements of Sir Joseph Paxton who designed the cemetery.
- S1E2 Paxton’s Arboretum – Poetry by Emilie Lauren Jones, a new collection inspired by stories of the cemetery.
- S1E3 Paxton’s Arboretum – Music by Tim Seeley, a new piece of music inspired by nature and the sounds of the cemetery.
- Download and listen on headphones, enjoy a walk at your leisure.
- Approx. 20 mins each, wheelchair accessible, outdoors, all weather
Find us
Sat Nav Destination: CV1 2JT
Parking
Visitors arriving by car should park in the Charterhouse car park and enter the cemetery through the carriageway entrance.
Venue hire
The Anglican Chapel in London Road Cemetery is available for private and corporate hire. The space can be booked for daytime and/or evening events.
Stay with us
Stay in some of the West Midland’s most significant historic buildings, right in the heart of Coventry.
Contact us
To contact the team at Historic Coventry Trust please fill in the contact form below.
