High Royds Memorial Chapel, Garden & Nature Reserve (2020)
Buckle Lane, Menston, Next to West Yorkshire Ambulance Depot, West Yorkshire, LS29 6DG
The paupers' graveyard (closed in 1969) which belonged to the former High Royds Psychiatric Hospital was restored in 2011 to create a tranquil garden of remembrance. The Heritage Chapel, which contains details of the 2861 people who are buried there, remembers those who have gone before and helps with the campaign to remove the stigma surrounding mental health. Its loving restoration has created an Oasis of Peace. A special Remembrance/Thanksgiving Service will be held, at 4.30pm on Sunday 20th September, to commemorate those who have gone before and those with mental health problems today
The Memorial Garden has been described as 'an absolute Gem' by Yorkshire in Bloom and in 2017 was honoured with a Community Initiative award, in addition to being featured on national TV and in the national press.
With the help of a grant from The Telegraph & Argus a Sensory Garden was created in June 2019 to help those who are sight-impaired or who have problems with Dementia. Further environmental work is planned to create a Wildlife Sanctuary & Nature Trail in the surrounding 1.5 acres of woodland which is now community owned as part of the Charitable Trust.
Available anytime
Buckle Lane, Menston, Next to West Yorkshire Ambulance Depot, West Yorkshire, LS29 6DG
Wheelchairs can use front entrance but double yellow lines and other restrictions apply. The grounds and paths of the garden have been designed for wheelchair use.