Dead Space to Living Place - the transformation of Rectory Lane Cemetery (2020)
Rectory Lane, Hertfordshire, HP4 2DH
Walk along the accessible paths and try the dramatic new seating, experience the sculpted Garden of Remembrance, see the fully restored Sexton's Hut, take in the wonderful views across the town to the Chilterns beyond. Visit the wildlife area and check out the welcoming volunteer facility - and perhaps be inspired to join us! Learn about the seven-year journey which transformed the Cemetery 'from a dead space to a living place' through the work of a passionate and dedicated group of volunteers, expert contractors and the vital support of the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Timings & Tours
Available anytime
Location & directions
Rectory Lane, Hertfordshire, HP4 2DH
- Contact on day:
- Kate Campbell
- Telephone number:
- Kate Campbell
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
Access to the cemetery for the tours is via the Rectory Lane entrance. The Three Close Lane gates will be closed. There are two disabled parking bays, just inside the Rectory lane gates - otherwise there is parking in the town. Two thirds of the site is fully accessible on new resin-bound paths, although there is an incline up the site. The top third of the site is via grass paths only and here the gradient increases. Apart from accessing two small buildings, the tours are in the open air and will go ahead whatever the weather so come prepared! Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome.
Additional information
Although there is no specific activity for children, they are welcome with accompanying adults. They will particularly enjoy the variety of seating on offer in the cemetery (one with an integrated bookshelf, another carved out of a tree trunk, a third woven with tunnels to go through) and the wildlife area. In other areas, they will need to keep to the paths, to avoid damaging the newly seeded areas of soft landscaping.
