Hampstead Cemetery: A Win for Local Residents - and for Our Community

During the pandemic, a group of volunteers stepped in to keep Hampstead Cemetery open daily when it was at risk of closure. Thanks to their efforts, people were able to enjoy fresh air, peace, and much-needed outdoor space at a very difficult time. However, once the cemetery service resumed full control, the opening hours were reduced to a bare minimum, and many residents were understandably unhappy.

This year, local residents took matters into their own hands. A petition requesting reinstatement of the pre-covid opening hours, gathered more than 1,000 signatures, and a community deputation went before Camden’s Culture & Environment Scrutiny Committee on 10 November resulting in Camden agreeing to a pilot scheme from April 2026, adding two extra evening hours in the summer months.

It’s not the full restoration yet, but it is real progress, and many congratulations go to the community, led by local resident Jill Henry. Nancy will be keeping a close eye on the proposed pilot, as will many of us.

You can read more about it at https://www.camdennewjournal.co.uk/article/hampstead-cemetery-set-to-stay-open-two-hours-later-after-campaign-petition