Arnos Vale Cemetery Trust

Arnos Vale Cemetery opened in 1837, following the cholera epidemic that first struck the city in 1832. With the sudden and then sustained high death rate from the cholera outbreak that was spreading, not just in Bristol but all over Europe, a solution was needed to deal with the burial of the victims. Arnos Vale Cemetery was therefore opened, near enough to the city to be accessible, but far enough away to be respectful.

It has been home to many social reformers, celebrities, religious pioneers and nautical and military heroes, as well as many everyday people for over 170 years, and more than 300,000 people are buried or remembered on this beautiful site. Visitors to Arnos Vale Cemetery are always astounded at the sheer size of the site, which covers 45 acres, the number of graves, tombs and monuments (many of which are listed), and the wonderfully restored buildings, which are now back to their former glory.

Arnos Vale Cemetery Trust is bursting to the brim with stories of its inhabitants, wildlife, history of Bristol and the Victorian era, and there are Heritage and Wildlife tours available with tour guides throughout the year. Alternatively, visitors can take a more leisurely, gentle stroll around the site at their own pace using the Arnos Vale Cemetery Trust Guide Book or Trail Maps packed with fascinating facts to help you on the way.

Arnos Vale Cemetery is open from 8.30am until 5.00pm during the April to October period and 9.00am until 4.30pm from November to March. Admission to the site is free, whereas guided tours have a small charge.