Ealing Parks Foundation volunteers and the council have transformed the older section of South Ealing Cemetery into a park.
To celebrate the transformation of the park, the volunteers hosted a guided tour for more than 20 people at the new cemetery park recently.
Ealing Parks Foundation (EPF) has worked with the council for almost 2 years to restore the older part of the cemetery into a more welcoming space for visitors. The new cemetery park is one of 10 new parks and open spaces the council has committed to create in the borough by 2026.
As part of Open House London (20 and 21 September), residents had the chance to see the transformation so far, learn about the fascinating history of the cemetery and see inside the chapels. They could also view an exhibition of cemetery photos curated by Ealing and Hampshire House Photographic Society. Some of these are included in our gallery below.
EPF volunteers have been hard at work, cutting back overgrown shrubs, planting bulbs and wildflowers, and restoring the clock mechanism in the chapel tower so that the bell – which had not sounded for 10 years – can now be rung.
Bird boxes have been repaired or replaced to encourage wildlife to thrive there.
Recently the cemetery park has hosted events, including a bat walk led by Ealing Wildlife Group, history walks, and a butterfly count.
The cemetery was opened in 1861 for the people of Ealing and Brentford. It was designed by Ealing Council surveyor and engineer, Charles Jones, who also designed Ealing Town Hall, Ealing Green Church and Drayton Green Church.
‘Nature-rich’
Jane Fernley from EPF said: “We are delighted with the support we have received from local volunteers, Ealing Council and partner organisations. It means we’ve been able to make the cemetery a safer, more welcoming and nature-rich green space, restore the clock and share information about the history of the chapels and the fascinating stories of those who are buried here.
Paul Carter, from EPF added: “Our big hope for the future is to restore the chapels for community use. See our website for more information and how to get involved.”
Council leader Peter Mason said: “South Ealing cemetery is not just a resting place for our loved ones; it’s a historical treasure trove with so many inspiring stories of people who are buried there from war heroes to suffragettes. Thanks to dedication of Ealing Parks Foundation and other volunteers, with the support of the council, the older part of the cemetery has been transformed into a peaceful and welcoming park for residents to enjoy. You can see the difference it’s made already with lots more people going there on their daily walks, joining history tours or just taking a moment of reflection.”
Councillor Blerina Hashani, the council’s cabinet member for thriving communities added: “This is a great example of what can be achieved when we work with the community. We shared a vision to create somewhere where people can reflect, learn about nature or local history or enjoy a walk whilst being sensitive and respectful of its location. There are so many fascinating stories here and beautiful architecture.”
More information and volunteer opportunities
If you would like to volunteer with Ealing Parks Foundation at South Ealing Cemetery visit its website.
Photo gallery
Take a look at some of the photos below from South Ealing Cemetery.
