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A future for Glasgow’s Necropolis

Welcome to the online home of The Friends of Glasgow Necropolis – the official guides of the Necropolis. This website is a focus for developing interest in this fascinating Victorian garden cemetery adjacent to Glasgow Cathedral.

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We organise guided walking tours of this 37 acre cemetery full of wonderful architecture, sculpture and fascinating stories relating to the 50,000 people remembered here. As a charity, donations we receive from our tours are used for restoration work. We are always looking for new information – please contact us [email protected] if you can contribute to our website. We are particularly keen to hear from descendants of the ‘incumbents’ that can provide profiles of those buried here.

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Tour Programme

See tours page for full list of tours

The Unmarked Graves in the Glasgow Necropolis

Published May 2024 In 2017 Morag Fyfe, FoGN’s researcher, initiated a project to index the Burial Registers of the Glasgow Necropolis and in February 2024…

The Friends of Glasgow Necropolis, c/o St Mungo Museum, 2 Castle Street, Glasgow G4 0RH

A Registered Scottish Charity: No SC037918 Photographers: Ruth Johnston, Scott Kerr, David Hanlon, John Gair

How to Visit Glasgow Necropolis – Complete 2024 Guide!

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: January 1, 2024

Categories GLASGOW , SCOTLAND

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

Sitting high above Glasgow Cathedral is the imposing Glasgow Necropolis, a Victorian city of the dead with over 50,000 people buried there.

Almost all who rest here are notable Glaswegians and you’ll find many elaborate tombs, mausoleums, and crypts as you take an atmospheric walk through the graveyard.

As you wander through this labyrinth of a burial ground, you’ll also receive panoramic views of the city so it’s a must-visit – even if the rain!

Although best visited in Autumn and the spooky season around Samhain (Halloween), this Glaswegian city of the dead will be waiting to welcome you all year. 

Here is a complete guide on how to visit Glasgow Necropolis, including opening times, famous graves, and what to expect! 

Glasgow Necropolis history

In 1832, the British Cemeteries Act was passed in parliament which allowed burials to be made for profit. 

Before this act, the parish church in the local area held full responsibility for burying the dead and the funerals and graves were meagre.

This is why, around this time period, you found a surge of many elaborate tombs and graveyards being built in Britain for wealthy members of society.

The most famous Victorian Necropolis and graveyard in the UK is Highgate Cemetery in London which is part of the ‘Magnificent Seven Cemeteries’. 

Glasgow had a fast thriving population and equally growing mortality rates. There was also a declining congregation at church and so the city was one of the first to take full advantage of this development. 

Although Jewish burials had started in 1832, the Glasgow Necropolis ‘officially’ opened in 1833 and had its first Christian burial of Elizabeth Miles, stepmother to Superintendent George Mylne.

The adjoining bridge that allowed access to the cemetery was developed a few years later and elaborate gates were placed at the entrance. 

Later, there were memorials put in place for stillborn children, the Korean War, and those Glaswegians who received the Victorian Cross. 

The Necropolis was extended in 1860, again in 1877, and finally in 1892. 50,000 burials have taken place at the Glasgow Necropolis and it was one of the first graveyards in the country to keep a record of their name, profession, age, sex, and cause of death.

Today, thousands of people visit the necropolis every year as it’s close to the Glasgow Cathedral! It’s a beautiful place with an atmosphere that you cannot find anywhere else in the city. 

Glasgow Necropolis facts 

• The Glasgow Necropolis stretches over 37 acres of land (15 hectares) in the city centre overlooking the final resting place of St Mungo
• Over 50,000 people are buried at Glasgow Necropolis and many graves are unmarked
• The first burials took place in 1832 and the last tombs were built around 1900
• The oldest grave in Glasgow Necropolis was for ‘the Jew Joseph Levy’ in 1832. He was a 62-year-old jeweller. The ‘Jewish Quarter’ is the oldest part of the graveyard.
• There are 3,500 monuments in the Glaswegian city of the dead – the most expensive are gathered around Knox’s monument
• The design of Glasgow Necropolis was inspired by Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris 

Where is Glasgow Necropolis?

The Glasgow Necropolis sits high on a plateau above the city right next to the famous Glasgow Cathedral or the High Kirk of Glasgow.

So, you’ll need to make your way over to the Cathedral Precinct in the city, close to George Square. 

You’ll be crossing over the Glasgow Bridge of Sighs to access the necropolis site and then climbing up a gradual hill of tombs to reach the summit. 

The good news is that you don’t need a guided tour or pay a fee to visit Glasgow Necropolis. It’s completely free and you can visit self-guided for a leisurely walk every day of the week! 

How to get to Glasgow Necropolis 

The main gate to Glasgow Necropolis can be found near the entrance to Glasgow Cathedral and the St Mungo Museum on the east side of the city on Castle Street.

It’s close to popular city centre attractions like George Square and the City Chambers which is a 20-minute walk away. 

The nearest train station stops are Glasgow High Street (10-minute walk) and Glasgow Queen Street (20-minute walk).

Or, you can take a bus from Glasgow Central Station. The number 38 heading to Eastbourne stops at St James Road (3 minute’s walk). 

If you’re driving, you can take the M8 and alight at Junction 15 to visit Glasgow Cathedral. There is paid parking found nearby. 

Glasgow Necropolis address is Castle Street, Glasgow G4 0UZ. Click here for a Google Pin !

Glasgow Necropolis parking 

You cannot drive through Glasgow Necropolis and there is no parking to be found at the site.

If you’re driving, you will need to park in one of the Cathedral Precinct car parks found around Glasgow Cathedral.

There are four precinct car parks and the closest to Glasgow Necropolis would be Cathedral Precinct 2 car park and Cathedral Precinct 4 car park.

These aren’t the cheapest places to park and you will find it’s around £6 for 3 hours to explore the cathedral and necropolis. 

You can use cash, a card, or the RingGo app which I prefer as you can extend your parking without having to return to your car in case you need more time. 

Alternatively, there is off-road parking found on Castle Street but this again is paid by the hour during the day.

If you wanted to save some money, I would recommend taking public transport in the city like the buses, trains or SPT subway. 

Alternatively, why not take a Glasgow Hop-on-Hop-Off bus through the city ? It’s a great way to see the main sights! Glasgow Cathedral is bus stop 2 on the map.

Glasgow Necropolis opening times

Although Google says that the Glasgow Necropolis is open 24 hours a day, you can actually only visit the graveyard from 7 am until around 4.30 pm each day. 

The gates are closed off after this time and so you cannot access the necropolis in the evening which would be so cool and spooky.

Although the Glasgow Necropolis is closed at night time, if you’re interested, special tours are often run after hours by the Friends of Glasgow Necropolis. 

Things to see in Glasgow Necropolis 

So, once you get to Glasgow Necropolis, what are the main things that you can see and do here? 

Personally, I didn’t take a route map or any sort of guide. I just enjoyed wandering around the labyrinth of paths and hills through the tombs to see where it would take me. 

As it’s an old graveyard, so there will be uneven ground, cracks in the pavement and no shelter to speak of. It can also get muddy on grassy areas if it’s been raining. So, come prepared with a good pair of shoes and a coat if it’s a rainy day.

Whatever the weather, it makes a great walk and you’ll see incredible mausoleums, crypts, and city views along the way.

Here are some places to look out for on your visit;

1. Cross the Glasgow Bridge of Sighs 

To access the Glasgow Necropolis, you’ll cross over what is known as the Glasgow Bridge of Sighs. 

Originally it was built by David Hamilton in 1836 over the Molendinar Burn and it was nicknamed the Bridge of Sighs due to it being part of the funeral procession route. 

This was inspired by the famous Bridge of Sighs in Venice which got its name from the sighs of prisoners on their way to their execution! 

As you cross over the bridge, you’ll see one of the best views of Glasgow Necropolis and how it’s built on layers. 

The large tan building in the centre tells the story of the ‘Adjoining Bridge’ and how it was erected by the Merchant’s House of Glasgow. 

There were 3 memorials built here later. There is a memorial to stillborn children, a memorial to the Korean War, and a memorial to Glaswegian recipients of the Victoria Cross.

2. Views over Glasgow Cathedral

Beyond exploring this labyrinth of an atmospheric graveyard, a perk of climbing to the top of the necropolis is the fact that you get incredible views over the city.

As you start your ascent to the top of the hill, the views of the Glashow Cathedral area just keep getting better and better.

When you reach the top, follow the path up to John Knox’s memorial for a plateau that provides an amazing photo spot. It’s a huge, elaborate column and the biggest monument here so you can’t miss it.

Beyond seeing the cathedral, the necropolis stands high on a hill so you’ll get incredible 360-degree views of Glasgow between the graves.

3. Find famous graves at Glasgow Necropolis 

Most of the dead buried here are prominent Glaswegians in the Victorian era and there are famous figures buried in the graveyard you may have heard of. 

The most notable monument is the memorial to John Knox which is a huge column located at the summit of the hill. He was the leader of the Protestant Reformation in Scotland in 1500.

You’ll most likely visit this one as it’s the one with incredible views. It was built in 1825 so it predates the cemetery. He’s actually buried in Edinburgh under a car park!

Charles Rennie Mackintosh and Alexander ‘Greek’ Thomson are also buried here and many of the beautiful buildings in this city were designed by these famous architects. 

You’ll also find graves dedicated to the ‘Lord Provosts’ of Glasgow which is similar to a Lord Mayor. 

However, most of the thousands of bodies here were ordinary Glaswegians living ordinary lives in Victorian Britain.

There are graves of shipbuilders, historians, printers, quill makers, jewellers, campaigners, and surgeons. They’re all laid to rest here. 

It’s very interesting to read what’s on their tombs as many have their story (and how they passed) carved into the stone!

The graveyard is very male-dominated but there are notable Glaswegian women buried here too. You can check out this walk by the Glasgow Women’s Library to discover the women of the necropolis. 

4. Chase Batman filming locations

Beady-eyed Batman fans will recognise the Glasgow Necropolis featured in the new movie The Batman starring Robert Pattinson.

The crew filmed in Glasgow City centre and braved strong winds, rain, and sleet to bring these parts of the movie to the screens.

In the film, you can see Batman riding his Batcycle through the central part of the necropolis in the movie! 

Although this was thought to be a stuntman, not Robert Pattinson, it is still cool to think that they filmed parts of Gotham city here. 

You can find the Glasgow Necropolis Batman filming locations around The Bridge of Sighs, Glasgow Cathedral, and the central ‘road’ in the Necropolis. 

5. Commonwealth War Graves

As well as elaborate Victorian tombs, crypts, and gravestones, there is a large section dedicated to Commonwealth War Graves too. 

During both World Wars, the UK was an island fortress and was used as a training ground for troops as well as a base for land, sea, and air operations.

There are more than 170,000 Commonwealth War Graves found in the United Kingdom dedicated to those who lost their lives in Britain from Commonwealth countries. 

These are dedicated to servicemen and women who lost their lives in training, accidents, sickness, or disease. 

Glasgow was a port of embarkation for the British Expeditionary Force in 1914 and there were military hospitals opened in the city. Also, many regiment headquarters were based in Glasgow.

The city suffered greatly during The Blitz when the Clydesman Shipyards were a target killing many of those in service as well as civilians. 

Glasgow Necropolis has 359 First World War burials and 124 Second World War burials in its Commonwealth Graveyard. 

6. Glasgow Necropolis tours

You can explore the necropolis self-guided every day during the week but if you have the time I would highly recommend booking a guided Glasgow Necropolis tour.

The Friends of Glasgow Necropolis run guided tours throughout the year which are very informative.

They will discuss the history, and where to find notable graves. Some tours even run at night time which will make it extra spooky.

Tours are free but donations are very much appreciated and proceeds go towards the upkeep of this beautiful city of the dead. 

Click here to check out the next guided tour dates

Glasgow Necropolis FAQs

• What is the difference between a cemetery and a Necropolis? The word Necropolis means ‘city of the dead’ and usually has large tombs and mausoleums built far outside of the city. Whereas a cemetery is a smaller site with low graves and is built within a city. Famous examples of a Necropolis would be the Pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings in Egypt.
• Can you get into Glasgow Necropolis at night? No, it’s closed in the evening. Sometimes guided tours take place at night. 

• Is Glasgow Necropolis free? Yes, it’s completely free to visit!
• Can you walk around Glasgow Necropolis? Yes, and it’s a very atmospheric walk with amazing views over the city!
• Why is Glasgow Necropolis famous? It’s filled with very prominent Victorian figures who lived in Glasgow.

Looking for more things to do in Glasgow nearby?

As you’re near Glasgow Cathedral, you’re in the perfect place to explore more of the city’s main attractions.

Here are some things to do near Glasgow Necropolis;

Visit Glasgow Cathedral & St Mungo’s Crypt

Glasgow Cathedral, or the High Kirk of Glasgow, has been a dedicated church since the year 1136 AD.

This makes it the oldest cathedral on mainland Scotland and the oldest building in Glasgow! It is supposedly built on the same site as where St Mungo built his church. 

He was an apostle of the Scottish Kingdom of Strathclyde in the 6th Century and his tomb can be found in the Lower Crypt. 

He was the patron saint who brought the Christian faith to Scotland too. It was built before the reformation and is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the country that survives today.

You’ll find the entrance to the necropolis right beside the cathedral so you can’t miss it. The entrance to Glasgow Cathedral is free but, again, donations are appreciated.

Click here to read my guide for visiting Glasgow Cathedral

George Square 

George Square in Glasgow was named after King George III and laid out in 1781. But, was not completely finished until 20 years later. 

The square is surrounded by important buildings like the Glasgow City Chambers and the Merchant’s House. 

Also, George Square has many statues and monuments dedicated to famous figures such as Sir Robert Peel, Robert Burns, and Sir Walter Scott. 

Although today George Square holds many concerts and cultural events for the city, in the past it has been the location of protests.

The most famous was the Battle of George Square in 1919. It is thought that over 20,000 engineers and workers gathered here and rallied for a fair workweek. It descended into violence and a riot act was read.

The foundations of the Glasgow City Chambers, which stands proudly in the square, were laid down in 1883 and designed by William Young. 

It’s well worth checking out as the views and buildings are absolutely stunning! 

Click here to read my Outlander guide on George Square

City Chambers tour

If you’re looking for something unique to do in Glasgow, then I would highly recommend taking a guided tour of the City Chambers.

It’s a government building but public guided tours take place at 10.30 am and 2.30 pm from Monday – Friday.

You can’t pre-book tours online and places are first come first served. So, I would recommend getting to the reception of the City Chambers around 30-45 minutes beforehand to register and wait it out! 

It’s one of the most beautiful buildings I’ve ever seen inside. You’ll find marble staircases, domed ceilings, and amazing portraits of notable government officials. Well worth doing if you get the chance. 

Chase Outlander filming locations 

If you’re a fan of Outlander, you may be surprised to know that there are plenty of filming locations to be found in and around the city.

You’ll find that many of the Boston locations were filmed here including Dowanhill Street which was Claire, Frank, and Brianna’s home.

Glasgow has plenty of Outlander locations and you’ll need at least a day to explore them all! 

Start off at the University of Glasgow to find Havard University where  Frank was a professor in Boston . Or, make your way over to Kelvingrove Park to see where  Claire walks to study. 

George Square was the spot where  Claire and Frank were married in London.

Pollock Country Park has scenes from the grounds of Castle Leoch and the  duel between Jamie and Black Jack Randall  in Paris and Dean Castle Country Park is featured in the Fox’s Lair.

Click here to see my  full guide of Outlander filming locations in Glasgow !

Save time and book a tour

Book tours & tickets for Glasgow!

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Where to stay near Glasgow Cathedral

Glasgow Cathedral quarter is a lovely part of the city to extend your stay. It’s the oldest part of the city, so you’re surrounded by beautiful historic buildings and are close to the vibrant George Square!

Here are my top recommendations for hotels near Glasgow Necropolis;

• Native Glasgow – A top-rated hotel situated in an Edwardian building, you’ll find lots of aparthotel rooms and studios to sleep in. Click here for available dates and rates.
• Moxy Glasgow (Merchant City) – Moxy is just 700 metres away from Glasgow Cathedral and has modern, chic rooms to spend the night. Click to book.
• Cathedral House – You’re in touching distance of Glasgow Cathedral in this cosy hotel. A Scottish Baronial residence from the 19th century but with modern rooms and amenities. Click here for dates and rates.

Read more of my Glasgow & Scotland articles

How to find the Devil’s Pulpit

Why you must stay at Motel One in Glasgow 

Magical Harry Potter locations in Scotland

Where is the Pink Castle in Scotland?

Why you must visit the Kelpies 

A complete guide for the Pineapple House

Callendar House Outlander Guide

Outlander filming locations in Culross

Save how to visit Glasgow Necropolis for later! 

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The Friends of Glasgow Necropolis – Walking Tours

The Glasgow Necropolis embodies Glasgow at the height its power as the Second City of the British Empire, over 37 acres with 50,000 people interred from engineers, artist, iron founders, inventors, ship builders, locomotive makers, scientists, poets, factory owners, and business people of Victorian Glasgow are buried here.

Their monuments were designed by famous architects and sculptors of the time such as Alexander ‘Greek’ Thomson and Charles Rennie Mackintosh. The Necropolis was the first ornamental garden cemetery in Scotland with a landscape inspired by Pere Lachaise in Paris. It is included in Historic Scotland’s inventory if Gardens and Designed Landscapes. The Necropolis is also home to many thousands of ordinary Glaswegians, many of whom are buried in unmarked graves.

As part of Doors Open 2023, The Friends of Glasgow Necropolis (The Friends) are delighted to offer informal and informative walking tours undertaken by our friendly and knowledgeable volunteer tour guides. We offer tours on Saturday @ 11.00am, 12.00 noon, 1.00pm, 2.00pm & 3.00pm and on Sunday @ 12.00 noon, 1..00pm, 2.00pm & 3.00pm.

Saturday: 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm

Bookings open September 1st

Booking essential.

Other Information

Accessibility, organisation.

The Friends of Glasgow Necropolis was launched at The Merchants House on Wednesday 22nd June 2005 and produced a committee and members from a wide range of backgrounds whose aim is to conserve the Glasgow Necropolis. Their interests include : family history research, cemetery history, architecture and sculpture, architectural conservation, natural history and ecology, tourism and hospitality and economic development. The Friends of Glasgow Necropolis are a Registered Scottish Charity No SCO370918

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Glasgow Necropolis Visitor Guide

The Glasgow Necropolis is a prominent Victorian garden cemetery located on a low but prominent hill to the east of Glasgow Cathedral. Often described as one of the most significant cemeteries in Europe, the Necropolis is a testament to the 19th-century trend of creating grandiose burial places for the wealthy and influential members of society.

The Necropolis is renowned for being the final resting place of more than fifty thousand people, as well as being one of the first multi-faith graveyards in the world. It’s free to visit, and guided tours are available on request.

If you’re in Glasgow and looking for something to do that’s a bit out of the ordinary, you might enjoy taking a walk around the 37-acre Necropolis next to the city’s imposing cathedral . This Victorian cemetery is the final resting place for over fifty thousand Glasgow residents, and among the gravestones you’ll find memorials dedicated to some of the greatest Scots that have ever lived.

From John Knox (the founder of Scotland’s Presbyterian Church) to Charles Rennie Mackintosh (Scotland’s most famous architect), you’ll find a huge number of monuments in the Necropolis.

Like most Victorian burial sites, Glasgow’s Necropolis is laid out like an informal park, with meandering paths running throughout a vast collection of gravestones that’s reminiscent of the equally large Pere Lachaise Cemetery in Paris. While some memorials are enormous and very elaborate, there are others that are rather nondescript, and this eclectic mix of tombs lends the site an ethereal, other-worldly atmosphere.

There are around 3,500 monuments in this city of the dead, but the most famous has to be the one dedicated to John Knox which sits on top of the highest point of the graveyard. From there, you’ll get a fantastic elevated view across the city, with the cathedral in the foreground and Glasgow’s rambling streets spreading out in every direction.

The Necropolis is an incredibly atmospheric place that’s definitely worth visiting if you’re intending to view the nearby cathedral.

The Highlights

1: The Glasgow Necropolis is often referred to as a ‘city of the dead,’ and it features an extraordinary collection of monuments, sculptures, and mausoleums. Visitors can admire the intricate stonework and architectural styles ranging from Egyptian to Gothic and Classical, designed by notable architects and sculptors of the time.

2: Situated on a prominent hill, the Necropolis offers some of the best panoramic views of Glasgow. Visitors can enjoy sweeping vistas that include Glasgow Cathedral, the city skyline, and, on a clear day, the distant Campsie Fells.

3: Guided tours are available, providing insights into the lives of those interred, many of whom were influential figures in Glasgow’s history, including merchants, politicians, and artists. The informative tours help visitors understand the historical context and the evolution of Glasgow through the ages.

Visiting Tips

1: The Necropolis is set on a hill with uneven terrain, including cobbled paths, steep slopes, and stairs. To navigate these safely and comfortably, it’s advisable to wear sturdy shoes with good grips. This is particularly important in wet weather when the paths can become slippery.

2: The Glasgow Necropolis is not just a tourist attraction; it is a resting place for thousands of people, so visitors should be respectful of the graves and memorials. Avoid touching or leaning on the stones as many are old and may be fragile or unstable. Keep to the paths where possible and refrain from littering or causing any form of damage.

3: While the Necropolis is open to the public and you can explore on your own, you may gain more from your visit by joining a guided tour that provides fascinating insights into the history of the cemetery, the symbolism of the monuments, and the stories of the notable individuals buried there.

Tourist Information

The best thing about a visit to the Necropolis is losing yourself in the myriad paths that thread across the hill like an enormous spiderweb. Ornate gravestones surround you as soon as you cross the Bridge of Sighs (the bridge at the main entrance), and if you look closer, you’ll notice some incredibly detailed carvings.

The graveyard is unusual in that it’s multi-faith, and you’ll find Catholics, Quakers, Protestants, and Jews laid to rest amongst the burial plots in a design that was ahead of its time for its inclusion of different religions.

While the John Knox monument might be the first place you head to (although he’s not even buried at the Necropolis; instead, you’ll find him under the car park of St. Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh ), there are many more interesting gravestones to keep an eye open for.

One of the more random memorials is the one dedicated to William Miller, the poet who penned the children’s nursery rhyme ‘Wee Willie Winkie’, while one of the most surprising has to be the grave of the very first person to be buried in the Necropolis – an 18th-century Jewish jeweller.

If you really want to discover the history of Glasgow’s Necropolis, you can book yourself onto a two-hour informal guided walking tour run by a group of volunteer tour guides who are extremely knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the place. They don’t ask for a fee to join the tour, but they do request voluntary donations that go towards the upkeep of the Necropolis.

Alternatively, you’re free to wander around the site at your leisure, and as the site is unmanned, it is usually open till late, although you might like to give it a miss when it’s dark for your own safety.

If you enjoy wildlife spotting, you might be interested to know that The Necropolis is Glasgow’s second-largest green space. The graveyard is full of plants and animals and there are large areas of wildflowers, trees, and ivy-covered quarry faces.

There are more than 180 different species of flowering plants and trees across the graveyard that attract insects and a variety of birds that feed on them, and you might be lucky enough to see pipistrelle bats flitting about the sky at dusk. There are also wood mice, voles, and roe deer, although the deer are usually only seen late at night.

Prior to the Necropolis being the home of Glasgow’s dead, the site on which it’s located – known as Wester Crags – had been planted with fir trees and was used as a public park. Unfortunately, the firs struggled to survive, so in the early 1800s they were replaced with willow and elm, and the site was transformed into a Victorian arboretum.

It was around this time that the first foundation stone was laid for the John Knox monument, which is now the focal point of the entire graveyard. With the growing need to find somewhere to bury the dead of the city’s ever-expanding population, Glasgow’s city planners looked for inner-city areas to create a new graveyard, and Fir Park, the peaceful but failing Victorian arboretum, became the obvious choice.

The passing of the Cemeteries Act in 1832 meant that burial sites could be created for profit, so The Glasgow Merchants House purchased the land to develop a picturesque site that would rival the graveyards of Paris. With that thought in mind, the job of designing the Necropolis was awarded to a landscape gardener rather than an architect.

The Necropolis officially opened in 1833 as an interdenominational burial ground, but it was a full year before the first Christian burial took place. We know this because the Necropolis kept details of all burials, including age, sex, and cause of death – something that was very unusual for the time.

The ornate entrance and bridge, known as the Bridge of Sighs, was completed in 1836, with later extensions added in 1877 and 1892, plus three additional memorials installed between the entrance gate and the bridge. These memorials are dedicated to the still-born children of Glasgow, the soldiers lost in the Korean War, and the Glaswegian recipients of the Victoria Cross.

The burial grounds continued to be run privately until 1966 when The Merchant’s House handed the Necropolis over to Glasgow City Council, which now maintains it for public access.

The Commonwealth War Graves

The Western Necropolis is a large cemetery complex north of Glasgow City Centre. Adjoining this site are Glasgow Lambhill and Glasgow St. Kentigern’s Cemetery, as well as The Glasgow Garnet Hill Hebrew Burial Ground and Glasgow Crematorium Memorial. Vehicle access is prohibited at all sites in the evenings, with gates closing at 5 p.m. in the winter and 6 p.m. in the summer, but pedestrian access is still possible.

During the two world wars, the United Kingdom became an island fortress used for training troops and launching land, sea, and air operations around the globe. There are more than 170,000 Commonwealth war graves in the UK, many of which are those of servicemen and women killed in active service or who later succumbed to wounds.

Others died in training accidents or because of sickness or disease. The graves, many of them privately owned and marked by private memorials, can be found in more than 12,000 cemeteries and churchyards.

Glasgow was one of the ports of embarkation for the British Expeditionary Force in 1914, and several military hospitals opened in the city during the First World War, including the 3rd and 4th Scottish General (1,200 beds each) and the Merryflats War Hospital (500 beds). Battalions of a number of Scottish regiments had their headquarters in Glasgow during both wars, most notably the Highland Light Infantry.

German bombers targeted the Clydeside shipyards during the Blitz, and Glasgow came under particularly ferocious attack on the night of March 13 and 14, 1941, which resulted in a large number of casualties among civilians and service members.

The Glasgow Western Necropolis contains 359 First World War burials, many of them grouped together in Section P, with a small group of Australian graves in Section N. A screen wall near the main entrance carries the badges of the regiments represented in Sections P and H.

The 124 Second World War burials are scattered throughout the cemetery, although there are two among the earlier war graves in Section P. Also in this group are two inter-war service burials and two German war graves.

Glasgow Crematorium stands within the Western Necropolis, and a memorial in the Garden of Rest commemorates one serviceman of the First World War and 72 of the Second World War whose remains were cremated there.

Commonwealth War Graves Location:

By road from the M8 exit at junction 16 and head north on A879 Craighall Road. Travel 2.5 miles on this road leading into Saracen Street and Balmore Road. Turn left onto Skirska Street, then second right onto Tresta Road. Through the housing estate, the entrance to Western Necropolis is on the right-hand side, past the entrance to St. Kentigern’s Cemetery at the end of the road.

By public transport, Gilhochil Rail Station is two minutes’ walk from the main cemetery entrance. Trains from Queen Street Station travelling to Anniesland stop at this station.

Information courtesy of Commonwealth War Graves .

Things to Do

Historical Exploration : Delve into the rich history of Glasgow by exploring the Glasgow Necropolis. This Victorian cemetery, the burial place of more than 50,000 souls, offers a unique look into the city’s past. Admire the ornate architecture of the monuments, mausoleums, and Celtic crosses, each telling its own story of a life once lived.

Photography : Famed for its atmospheric beauty, the Glasgow Necropolis is a haven for photographers. Capture the stunning cityscape views from the top of the hill during the magical golden hour for a photo you’ll be proud to share on social media.

Guided Walking Tour : Join a guided tour to truly appreciate this historic location. Expert guides will take you around the Necropolis and share fascinating tales of the notable people interred there. Click here to see some of the tours offered by Get Your Guide.

Picnic with a View : For a unique dining experience, pack a picnic, find a spot under a tree, and enjoy your lunch with the panoramic views of Glasgow spreading out before you.

Wildlife Spotting : Despite its urban location, the Necropolis is a hotspot for wildlife. Keep an eye out for a variety of birds, squirrels, and other creatures that call this place home.

Things to Do Nearby

Glasgow Cathedral . Castle St., Glasgow, G4 0QZ. 3-minute walk. Founded in 1197, this is one of the largest Christian buildings in Scotland. Glasgow Cathedral is notable for its underground crypt and post-war stained-glass windows. Entry is free, but donations are welcome.

George Square . Glasgow G2 1DH. 14-minute walk. Glasgow’s principal civic square is located in the heart of the city, next to the Grand City Chambers. This historic square was laid out in 1781 and is ringed with statues of famous Scots.

St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art . 2 Castle St., Glasgow, G4 0RH. 2-minute walk. A free-to-visit museum located next to Glasgow Cathedral. This museum features a collection of religious-themed artefacts, paintings, and exhibits from all over the world. There is a café and gift shop on site.

Provand’s Lordship . 3 Castle St., Glasgow, G4 0RH. 3-minute walk. This museum is situated inside one of only four mediaeval buildings that survive in Glasgow. Built in 1471, Provand’s Lordship is furnished with a collection of 17th-century furniture and portraits. Entry is free.

The Glasgow Police Museum . First Floor, 30 Bell St., Glasgow, G1 1LG, 13-minute walk. This independent museum is dedicated to Britain’s first police force. There are exhibits of clothing and police memorabilia, and knowledgeable staff are on hand to answer any questions. Entry is free, but donations are welcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is glasgow necropolis famous.

Glasgow Necropolis is famous because it’s one of the most significant cemeteries in Europe and is widely regarded as a unique representation of Victorian cemetery design.

It’s located on a low but very prominent hill to the east of Glasgow Cathedral. The Necropolis is home to around 3,500 monuments that were designed by many of the leading architects and sculptors of the time.

Is Glasgow Necropolis free?

There is no fee to enter the Glasgow Necropolis.

What is the difference between a cemetery and a necropolis?

The word ‘necropolis’ derives from the Greek nekropolis, which means ‘city of the dead’. A necropolis is a very large burial ground that is usually complete with ornate burial tombs and gravestones.

A cemetery is a simple piece of land that has been set aside for people to be buried. The land is reserved solely for that purpose and is used to memorialise the dead.

Can you walk around the Glasgow Necropolis?

Visitors are welcome to walk around and explore the Glasgow Necropolis at their leisure. The Friends of The Glasgow Necropolis organise free walking tours that explain the history of the site and the people buried there.

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Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

PRIVATE GLASGOW NECROPOLIS TOUR: CITY OF THE DEAD

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Explore Glasgow’s Necropolis on our City of the Dead Tour!

Discover the secrets of Glasgow’s Necropolis and spend quality time with a local guide. On this exclusive 1.5hr Private Tour with flexible start times, get a real sense for Glasgow’s history told through its past residents who now rest here forever.

As you walk amongst the gravestones, learn about Glasgow’s turbulent history and the people that have shaped it into the vibrant city you see today. Join us for an authentic insight into life and death in the city and unearth little-known treasures along the way!

You’ll explore key sights of the Necropolis with your local guide, and be immersed in the stories and secrets of the City of the Dead. Travelling through the centuries to discover the origins of Glasgow’s Necropolis and its first citizen through to modern day and the thousands who now occupy it: from actors to entrepreneurs, free spirits to socialites, discover the stories behind the stones – there is something for everyone to enjoy!

Key Highlights: • Necropolis Gates • Bridge of Sighs • The Failed Catacombs • The Monteith Tomb • The John Knox Monument …and many hidden treasures you wouldn’t find by yourself!

Start time & location:  choose your start time in the booking form. This tour starts outside Glasgow Cathedral, this meeting point cannot be changed.

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Glasgow Necropolis

Listen to glasgow necropolis:, a resting place with a view.

We are now approaching the City of the Dead, but the name may be misleading. Glasgow Necropolis was designed to banish fears of dying among those who could afford a plot here.

Ranald MacInnes, of Historic Scotland, leads us to the gates of one of the greatest planned graveyards designed for the new wealthy of Glasgow. Just as they had their mansions in the Merchant City, so they could look forward to a last resting place in a park on the hill behind Glasgow Cathedral – after rolling through the Bridge of Sighs on a horse drawn carriage.

From here, Ruth Johnston, chair of the Friends of Glasgow Necropolis, takes us into the cemetery which officially opened in 1833 as an interdenominational burial ground though the history of the site itself dates back to 1650 when the Merchants’ House bought the land.

The first person to be buried in Glasgow’s ‘garden cemetery’ was Joseph Levi, a jeweller who died of cholera in 1832. Since then more than 50,000 people have been laid to rest here. And not just the rich and powerful. Artists, writers and musicians can be found among the monuments created by famous names including a tomb by Alexander Greek Thomson and a Celtic cross by Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

Glasgow Necropolis Walking Tours

The Friends of Glasgow Necropolis run regular friendly and informal walking tours of the Glasgow Necropolis!

About Glasgow Necropolis Walking Tours

Run by our extremely, well-informed, volunteer tour guides who give their time and commitment to share their passion for this outstanding cemetery to the visitors to the Glasgow Necropolis. Our tours are designed to provide an introduction and overview to the 37 acre (15 hectare) historically significant Victorian Cemetery. Telling the stories of some of the 50,000 people interred within its magnificent gates and their contribution to making Glasgow the second City of the Victorian Empire. All donations are hugely welcome and we do ask if you can be generous as all donations go entirely towards the conservation and restoration of the Glasgow Necropolis. Booking is essential. Our current restoration project is that of the Monteath Mausoleum. Bespoke and private tours are also available. Walking Tour Programme Prior booking is essential, with members of The Friends of the Glasgow Necropolis having priority booking. All other places will be allocated on a first come basis and the meeting point will be provided with every confirmed booking. Please contact [email protected] with details of the tour that you wish to attend and the number of places that you wish to reserve. Please be aware our organisation is run by volunteers and as a result there may be a short delay in us getting back you. We’ll reply as soon as we can, so please be patient with us! NOVEMBER Remembrance Sunday 12th November @ 1.00pm – Tour Guides Annette Mullen & Scott Kerr Saturday 25th November @ 12.00 noon – Tour Guide Claire McArthur DECEMBER Sunday 3rd December @ 11.00am – Tour Guide Scott Kerr Saturday 16th December @ 12.00 noon – Tour Guide Colin Campbell Sunday 31st December @ 11.00am – Tour Guides Gavin & Joyce McNae JANUARY 2024 Saturday 6th January @ 12.00 noon – Tour Guide Scott Kerr Sunday 21st January @ 1.00pm – Tour Guide Sarah Morrison FEBRUARY 2024 Saturday 3rd February @ 11.00am – Tour Guides Gavin & Joyce McNae Sunday 18h February @ 2.00pm – Tour Guide Jill Carrick MARCH 2024 Saturday 2nd March @ 1.00pm – Tour Guide Claire McArthur Sunday 17th March @ 11.00am – Tour Guide Jannis Low Saturday 30th March @ 1.00pm – Tour Guide Colin Campbell APRIL 2024 Sunday 7th April @ 2.00pm – Tour Guide Annette Mullen Saturday 20th April @ 11.00am – Tour Guide Sarah Morrison Sunday 28th April @ 12.00 noon – Tour Guides Gavin & Joyce MAY 2024 Saturday 4th May @ 1.00pm – Tour Guide Scott Kerr Sunday 12th May @ 2.00pm – Tour Guide Claire McArthur Saturday 25th May @ 11.00am – Tour Guide Annette Mullen JUNE 2024 Sunday 2nd June @ 12.00 noon – Tour Guides Gavin & Joyce McNae Saturday 15th June @ 1.00pm – Tour Guide Sarah Morrison Sunday 30th June @ 2.00pm – Tour Guide Jill Carrick JULY 2024 Saturday 6th July @ 11.00am – Tour Guide Colin Campbell Sunday 14th July @ 12.00 noon – Tour Guide Annette Mullen Saturday 27th July @ 1.00pm – Tour Guide Jannis Low AUGUST 2024 Sunday 4th August @ 2.00pm – Tour Guide Jill Carrick Saturday 17th August @ 2.00pm – Tour Guide Scott Kerr Saturday 17th August @ 5.00pm – Tour Guide Annette Mullen Sunday 25th August @ 11.00am – Tour Guides Gavin & Joyce McNae SEPTEMBER 2024 Saturday 7th September @ 12.00 noon – Tour Guide Sarah Morrison Sunday 29th September @ 1.00pm – Tour Guide Jannis Low OCTOBER 2024 Saturday 5th October @ 2.00pm – Tour Guide Scott Kerr Saturday 14th October @ 11.00am – Tour Guide Claire McArthur Sunday 27th October @ 12.00 noon – Tour Guide Jill Carrick NOVEMBER 2024 Remembrance Sunday 10th November @ 1.00pm – Tour Guides Annette Mullen & Scott Kerr Saturday 23rd November @ 2.00pm – Tour Guide Sarah Morrison DECEMBER 2024 Sunday 1st December @ 11.00am – Tour Guide Jannis Low Saturday 21st December @ 12.00 noon – Tour Guide Colin Sunday 29th December @ 11.00am – Tour Guides Gavin & Joyce McNae

Additional Dates: 30 June 2024, 06 July 2024, 14 July 2024, 27 July 2024, 04 August 2024, 17 August 2024, 25 August 2024, 07 September 2024, 29 September 2024, 05 October 2024, 14 October 2024, 27 October 2024, 10 November 2024, 23 November 2024, 01 December 2024, 21 December 2024, 29 December 2024

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Travel Guide

• Things to Do
• Best Hotels
• Things to See
• Best Restaurants
• Best Nightlife
• Planning a Trip
• Walking Tour 1
• Walking Tour 2
• Walking Tour 3
• Walking Tour 4
• Active Pursuits
• Spectator Sports
• Suggested Itineraries

Walking Tour 1 in Glasgow

The Merchant City & the East End

Start: Central Necropolis.

Finish: Royal Exchange Square.

Time: About 1 to 2 hours.

Best Time: Daytime.

Worst Time: Late at night.

Walking Tour: Merchant City & East End

This walk takes in Glasgow's historic heart, whose medieval districts were first lost to the designs of the city's initial "New Town" developments in the 1700s - the beginnings of the area now known as Merchant City. But there are hints to the past, and Merchant City is almost to Glasgow as SoHo is to Manhattan, with loft apartments and trendy bars.

Start the walk at:

1. The Necropolis

As big graveyards go - with monuments, crypts, and views - Glasgow's Central Necropolis is difficult to beat. Fashioned on Paris's famous Père Lachaise, it was the third of its kind in Britain, opening in 1833 (after St. James's in Liverpool and London's Kensal Green), although a Jewish burial ground had been established at the base of the hill 3 years earlier. The most sought-after plots of the day were near the monument to John Knox, which had been standing on the hill since 1825.

Cross the bridge to Cathedral Square and:

2. Glasgow Cathedral

The Cathedral is considered one of the best examples of medieval religious architecture in Scotland, although there's unfortunately no evidence of the settlement that once surrounded it. Across High Street, the building known as Provand's Lordship was built in 1471 by Bishop Andrew Muirhead. It miraculously managed to avoid demolition during Glasgow's robust urban renewals of the 19th and 20th centuries. The tall and modern buildings beyond it to the west are part of Strathclyde University.

Walk south on High Street to:

3. Glasgow Cross & Tolbooth

Down gently curving High Street, the red sandstone tenements you pass are exemplary of those constructed in the late-Victorian era by the Civic Improvement Trust. After crossing Duke Street comes the College Bar (nearly opposite the High Street railway station), whose name is a reminder that the original Glasgow University campus was nearby. The towering landmark at the base of the street and historic Glasgow Cross is the eight-story Tolbooth Steeple, completed in 1627, around which traffic up and down High Street snakes today.

At the steeple go east (left) and walk along the:

4. Gallowgate

"Gate" in Scottish essentially means "road to": Today, the Gallowgate is one of the main avenues leading to the working-class bastions of Glasgow's East End. If it's a weekend, visit the Barras (or Barrows) market, full of antiques, collectables, junk, and Glasgow character. The old dancing ballroom called Barrowland has become one of the most famous and popular places to see rock bands in Scotland. Also worth noting is the Saracen Head (or as the locals say, Sarry Heid) pub. It has historic connections to an inn of the same name that hosted Johnson and Boswell and also Wordsworth. Alas, it is only open sporadically these days.

Walk south from Gallowgate, crossing London Road to:

5. Glasgow Green

Running along the River Clyde, this huge stretch of green became a public park in the middle of the 19th century, although paths had been laid and shrubs planted out 100 years earlier. Its landmarks include the red sandstone People's Palace social history museum and adjoining Winter Garden, Doulton Fountain, and Nelson's Monument. To the east, the influence of the Doge's Palace in Venice is obvious in William Leiper's colorful facade of the old Templeton Carpet Factory, which has a great brewery/bar, WEST, on the ground floor. The southern side of Glasgow Green offers walks along the river as it begins its upstream meandering and the northwestern flank now features modern apartments opened in the late 1990s as the so-called "City for the Future."

Walk west on Greendyke Street, turning right (north) on Turnbull Street to:

6. St. Andrew's Square

Styled after St-Martin-in-the-Field, London, and indeed once surrounded by open space, the impressive sandstone St. Andrew's parish church was completed in 1756, making it the oldest post-Reformation kirk in Glasgow. Today, it houses a center for traditional Scottish music and dance. Around the corner, the only remaining bit of 18th-century residential property is no. 52 Charlotte Street, now available as overnight accommodation from the National Trust for Scotland.

Make your way back to Glasgow Cross and proceed west on the Trongate to:

7. Tron Steeple

The steeple with arches through which pedestrians can walk on the south side of the Trongate dates to 1592, although the original Tron or Laigh Kirk was founded 8 years before Columbus sailed to the New World. The tron was a beam used for weighing goods. The Tron Theatre, which occupies the site today, favors inventive new plays, as well as hosting musical events. The theater's modern bar (facing Chisholm St.) and Victorian-style pub and restaurant are well-known hangouts for creative people. This neighborhood also now boasts the new cultural center called Trongate 103.

Cross the Trongate and go north (right) on Candleriggs to Bell Street and the:

8. Merchant Square & City Halls

The old covered markets of Glasgow have been converted into trendy gathering spots. The old Cheese Market is now a bar and nightclub, while more of the original character of the former Fruit Market has been retained by the Merchant Square development. A diverse array of bars and restaurants share the communal and cavernous interior space on the cobbles. Just north of it are the renovated City Halls, with acoustically celebrated performance spaces. Since the 1980s, warehouses in this area have been turned into loft apartments, while newer flats have been constructed more recently.

From the east exit of Merchant Square, cross Albion Street and stop by:

9. Café Gandolfi

In a bit of the old Cheese Market, Café Gandolfi (64 Albion St.; tel. 0141/552-6813) is one of the more popular places in Merchant City. It is relaxed, friendly, and at times very busy. But with a bar on the top floor, you can almost always find space. Food is Scottish and European.

Return to Candleriggs and continue north to Ingram Street and the:

10. Ramshorn Theatre

This is another former church (St. David) that has been turned into an arts venue, hosting mainly student productions. Round the side and to the rear of this handsome Gothic revival by Thomas Rickman (built in the 1820s) is an atmospheric graveyard that dates to 1719.

Go west on Ingram Street to John Street and the:

11. Italian Centre

Shopping, anyone? The facade of this mid-19th-century warehouse has been retained while an interior courtyard, apartments, and retail space for flashy clothing shops were created in the late 1980s. The Italian Centre is now home to Emporio Armani, while car-free and cobbled John Street is where outdoor dining and drinking are possible. At the corner of Ingram and John streets is Hutcheson's Hall, designed by David Hamilton in 1802 to combine French neoclassical with English baroque.

Walk north on John Street, turn left (west) on Cochrane Street, and continue to:

12. George Square

This is the city's main civic plaza, dating to 1782. More recently, it was repaved in a red, spongy material--and the color is oddly appropriate as this is the historic focal point of militant left-wing demonstrations. Rising majestically at the eastern side of George Square is Glasgow City Chambers, designed by William Young in 1882 as the seat of municipal authority. Facing the western end of the plaza are attractive Victorian and Edwardian-era buildings, which were originally uniform in height. Inside Queen Street railway station, the arching iron roof over the high-level platforms is impressive, but the exterior that faces the square is an eyesore. The square's statues include Robert Burns (whose plinth includes reliefs depicting a few of his tales), the bulky Cenotaph (honoring war casualties), the seated figure of Scottish engineering pioneer James Watt, and the towering monument to Sir Walter Scott.

Leave George Square from the southwest corner and go south on Queen Street to:

13. Royal Exchange Square

Invariably, the statue of the Duke of Wellington in front of the city's Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) in Royal Exchange Square will be wearing an orange traffic cone on his head. No one knows who started this tradition, but invariably some student makes certain it's there: Symbolic perhaps of Glasgow's irreverent side as well as a bit of Dada-esque art itself. The pile that Wellington guards was originally built in 1778 as a mansion on what was then farmland. In 1832, architect David Hamilton converted the building into the Royal Exchange. He added an imposing classical portico to the front and a matching "newsroom" to the back. The building sits squarely in the middle of the square, surrounded by cafes with outdoor seating and shops.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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The Glasgow Necropolis

Located in the heart of Glasgow, Scotland, The Glasgow Necropolis is a must-visit for history buffs and curious travelers alike. This Victorian cemetery, perched on a hill to the east of St Mungo’s Cathedral, offers not only an intriguing journey into the past but also panoramic views over one of Scotland’s most vibrant cities.

A Brief History

The Glasgow Necropolis officially opened in 1833 as an interdenominational burial ground. It was inspired by Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris and follows the European trend at that time for garden cemeteries. The first person buried there was Joseph Levi, a Jewish jeweler from Jamaica Street in central Glasgow.

This city of the dead has seen more than 50,000 burials with around 3500 monuments standing today – some designed by notable architects such as Alexander ‘Greek’ Thomson and Charles Rennie Mackintosh. As you wander through its paths, you’ll find yourself surrounded by elaborate mausoleums and gravestones reflecting different architectural styles including Egyptian Revivalism, Greek Revivalism and Gothic.

Notable Burials

The Necropolis is home to many graves belonging to prominent Glaswegians who played vital roles during their lifetimes. Among them are William Miller (the Laureate of Nursery Rhymes), John Knox (a statue rather than his actual grave) and Major Archibald Douglas Monteath whose tomb is one of the largest within this graveyard.

Charles Tennant – founder of chemical manufacturing company St.Rollox Chemical Works which became world’s leading producer of bleaching powder – also rests here along with Peter Lawrence who introduced tenement housing system to improve living conditions for working-class people during industrial revolution era.

A Walk Through Time

Taking a stroll through the Glasgow Necropolis is like walking back in time. Each monument tells a story of people who lived, worked and contributed to society during their lifetimes. From wealthy merchants and industrialists to architects, engineers, artists and writers – this cemetery encapsulates the rich tapestry of 19th-century Glasgow.

One can find gravestones inscribed with ship symbols representing maritime trade or those with sculpted hands shaking symbolizing friendship or brotherhood among Freemasons. It’s not just about death but also provides insight into social history, religious beliefs and cultural practices of that era.

Guided Tours

To fully appreciate the historical significance of this site, guided tours are highly recommended. The Friends of Glasgow Necropolis offer regular free tours led by knowledgeable volunteers who bring alive stories behind these cold stones – tales full of passion, tragedy and triumph that shaped modern-day Glasgow.

A Place for Contemplation

Beyond its historical allure, The Glasgow Necropolis offers tranquility amidst city hustle-bustle. Its elevated location provides stunning views over Cathedral spires towards bustling cityscape beyond River Clyde – an ideal spot for quiet contemplation as you soak up centuries-old history around you.

The next time you find yourself in Scotland’s largest city, make sure to carve out some time for a visit to The Glasgow Necropolis – it truly is one-of-a-kind experience blending history with serene beauty!

Frequently asked questions

What is the glasgow necropolis and why is it significant.

The Glasgow Necropolis is a Victorian cemetery located on a low but very prominent hill to the east of Glasgow Cathedral. It’s one of Europe’s most significant burial grounds, as much for its unique history as for its status as a memorial to those who shaped the city of Glasgow in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The design was inspired by Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris and was established by the Merchants’ House of Glasgow in 1831, becoming an important part of European architectural heritage.

How can I visit the Glasgow Necropolis? Is there any entry fee?

The Necropolis is open every day from dawn until dusk and admission is free. You can explore on your own or take one of several guided tours offered by Friends of Glasgow Necropolis. These tours are also free but donations are appreciated to help maintain this historic site. The main entrance gate at Wishart Street provides wheelchair access, making it accessible for everyone.

What notable monuments can be found at the Glasglow Necropolis?

The Glasglow Necropolis houses around 3500 monuments that reflect varying styles prevalent during different periods – Gothic Revival, Egyptian Revival, Neoclassical etc., making it not just a cemetery but an outdoor museum showcasing excellent examples of Victorian-era artistry. Notable monuments include Major Archibald Douglas Monteath Mausoleum inspired by ancient Greek architecture; John Knox Monument which stands atop the hill offering panoramic views; Charles Tennant Monument dedicated to Industrial Revolution leader among others.

Who are some famous people buried in Glasglow necropolis?

Glasgow’s rich history has led many notable figures from various fields like politics, arts and industry being buried here. Some of the famous people include William Miller, known as “Laureate of the Nursery” for his nursery rhymes; Charles Tennant, an industrialist who played a key role in Industrial Revolution; John Henry Alexander – actor and theatre manager, among others.

Can I conduct family history research at Glasgow Necropolis?

Yes, you can! The Friends of Glasgow Necropolis have created a comprehensive database containing details about those interred there. This is a valuable resource for genealogists or anyone interested in tracing their family history. You may also find it interesting to explore the site’s many monuments and epitaphs which provide fascinating insights into Victorian-era life and death.

The Glasgow Necropolis is part of our sightseeing tour!

Discover this sight and many more in our unique blend of a sightseeing tours and a scavenger hunt.

Glasgow Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour

"Best Walking Tour in Glasgow"

Discover Glasgow in our unique blend of a sightseeing tours and a scavenger hunt.

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In the Footsteps of St Mungo

Point a - glasgow necropolis.

• by Jenny Wilson
• 10 July 2021 8 February 2024

W alking Route instructions: Glasgow Necropolis is located on the eastern edge of Glasgow City Centre and is open from 7.00am till 4:30pm daily. Start at Cathedral Square (postcode G4 0UZ. ) The main entrance gates to the Necropolis lie behind St Mungo’s Museum of Religious Life and Art, and adjacent to Glasgow Cathedral. Enter the Necropolis by walking across the bridge. A detailed map of the position of the graves we feature on our walk is found at the bottom of this page.

The bridge across to the Necropolis is a nod to the Bridge of Sighs in Venice due to both being the routes for funeral processions. The Glasgow Necropolis has the Emperor Napoleon of France to thank for the idea of its construction. In a move away from burials around churches, the Père Lachaise cemetery, a “garden cemetery”, was created on a hill outside Paris. The Emperor had declared at the beginning of the 1800s, post the French revolution, that “every citizen has the right to be buried regardless of race or religion”, and he personally approved the plans for Père Lachaise, perhaps the most famous cemetery in the world, which opened in Paris in 1804. This idea became renowned across Europe and the men who were behind the plan for a new Glasgow cemetery were quite adamant that it should be based on the model of Père Lachaise in Paris.

The Glasgow Merchants House had bought land near Glasgow Cathedral. This parkland was believed by John Strang, Chamberlain at the Merchants’ House, to be “admirably adapted” to create Glasgow’s own version of the famous Paris Père Lachaise cemetery. It is a multi faith burial ground, designed for Glasgow’s higher classes at the time. The first person to be buried in the Necropolis was Joseph Levi, who was Jewish, and was buried in 1832.

Among the particular people we have highlighted for our Eurowalk are the German Henry Dübs and the Frenchman Pierre Jacques Papillon.

These and others all highlight the importance of European links in Glasgow’s heritage. You may just wish to view the Necropolis from a distance or walk around it – you can easily spend a couple of hours walking around the Necropolis.

(A detailed map of the locations we have highlighted can be found at the bottom of this page)

John Knox Statue

One of the first things to be built was a statue of John Knox which dominates the Necropolis. He is shown wearing a Geneva gown, or preaching robe, which was a robe typically worn by ordained ministers in the Christian churches that arose out of the Protestant Reformation. Knox founded the Presbyterian Church of Scotland. Knox and others, were taken prisoner during the siege of St Andrews castle and he subsequently spent time as a French galley slave!. (see St Andrews Eurowalk!) In February 1549 after 19 months as a galley slave, he was released. From 1554, he spent some time in France, Geneva and then Frankfurt. In Geneva, he met John Calvin. His history is summarised here:  John Knox – Wikipedia  and this regarding Knox in Geneva:  Tudor Times | John Knox: Life Story (Geneva)

At the Necropolis you can find a Memorial to Henry Dübs (1816 – 24 April 1876), a 19th century German-born engineer who worked in Glasgow. 

He was Works Manager and Company partner at Neilson and Company in Springburn. A locomotive from Neilson & Company can be seen at the Finnish Railway Museum – Neilson and Company – Wikipedia

Dübs then set up his own company Dübs & Co. in Queens Park at Polmadie.

Interestingly Dübs & Co was one of the first companies to employ women as tracers in their drawing offices.  He also invented a type of steam lifting crane to lift the locomotives.

More information:  https://www.gracesguide.co.uk/Henry_Dubs

A Dubs “long boiler” locomotive:  https://collection.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/objects/co205734/ner-0-6-0-1001-class-steam-locomotive-and-tender-no-1275-1874-steam-locomotive

Pierre Jacques Papillon

There is also a memorial to the family of Frenchman Pierre Jacques Papillon, who introduced Turkey Red dye. In 1785, Papillon came to Glasgow from Rouen at the invitation of businessman George Macintosh. Papillon, a chemist from Rouen, came to Scotland to show him the dyeing process for this red dye, a process that had been imported from Turkey to the Rouen area of France.

Turkey Red was an important dye as there had been a hunt for a good red dye that would withstand light. :

The EU Funded project about Turkey Red dye:  PowerPoint Presentation (gla.ac.uk)

Dalmarnock Turkey Red DyeWorks was established in 1785 by Highlander George Macintosh in partnership with David Dale and then Henry Monteith acquired the business in 1805 when it was renamed Barrowfield Dyeworks. It specialised in dye for these bright red Bandanna handkerchiefs. George Macintosh introduced Turkey Red to Scotland in 1785. 

From the same exhibition (2014), photographs of Mackintosh (on the left) and David Dale (on the right):

Professor Coats

A Professor of Anatomy and Pathology who had also trained in Wurzburg in Germany – https://www.glasgownecropolis.org/profiles/professor-joseph-coats-md-professor-of-pathology-university-of-glasgow/

Joseph F. Gomoszynski

There is a memorial to a young Polish man who was a Lieutenant in the Polish Army which fought for Independence of his country in 1830. More information about his life can be found here: https://www.glasgownecropolis.org/profiles/joseph-f-gomoszynski/ In exile in Britain, he taught languages here and spread the word about the history of Poland and current political situation there by giving lectures. He died of a heart aneurysm aged 32, leaving his wife and young family behind. He was buried with his infant son who had died of whooping cough.

This short video is an excellent history of the Warsaw uprising, history of Poland and the involvement of Joseph Gomoszynski (and indeed of Thomas Campbell the poet, whose statue is see in George Square and features on our Eurowalk) – November Uprising and the story of Józef Gomoszynski – YouTube

Waldemar Arend, Dorothy Arend and Ronald Arend

We have discovered that Waldemar Arend was a flour merchant in Glasgow, working for Kosmack & Co. which was based between Berlin and Glasgow. (Reference:  https://archive.org/details/informationregar00smit ). Waldemar seemed to be in charge of purchasing flour within Britain. He lived in various residences in the West End of Glasgow and at Redcote in Helensburgh. His son Ronald attended Kelvinside Academy but was killed in WW1 fighting for the Royal Scots (Reference:  http://warmemscot.s4.bizhat.com/warmemscot-post-82452.html ).

George Anderson Tombazis

George Anderson Tombazis was a Spirit Merchant and Consul for Greece. His family are also listed here. Clearly, there have been strong connections here with the Island of Samos in Greece.

François Foucart (1793 – 1862)

Francois Foucart (1793-1862), was an officer of the Imperial Guard of France, Knight of the Legion of Honour and Professor of Fencing at the Royal Academy of Paris. He spent 40 years teaching in Glasgow. This monument was erected by his pupils. Full history is here : https://www.glasgownecropolis.org/profiles/francois-foucart/

Detailed map of the Necropolis locations:

This website has further information about the Necropolis: https://www.glasgownecropolis.org/

Walking Route Instructions: Return across the bridge that you entered by and turn right to visit Glasgow Cathedral.

03 Jan A Visit to the Glasgow Necropolis

A visit to the glasgow necropolis.

If a tour of a cemetery fills you with dread rather than excitement, read on, you may just change your mind. Unbelievably Glasgow Necropolis walking tours are incredibly popular both with locals and visitors to Glasgow. 

The Glasgow Necropolis is situated near the medieval St. Mungo’s Cathedral, on Glasgow’s second highest hill. The cemetery spans an incredible 37 acres and is the resting place of over 50,000 people. What is so interesting about this Victorian cemetery is its vastly different array of architecture, sculpture and stories about the many people buried here. 

Bespoke and Private Tours are available to book by contacting The Friends of Glasgow Necropolis on [email protected] . It is advisable to book well in advance as availability of tour guides during Covid has affected the tours available. Tours last approx. 2 hours and donations can be made in advance of your tour.

Alternatively, you can take a self-guided tour, with the help of a guidebook, which leads you to the top 60 monuments in the Necropolis. 

For more information, please visit here .

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Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis: opening hours and what to see and do

Here's everything you need to know about two of Glasgow's most historical and best loved visitor attractions.

• 17:58, 6 MAY 2019
• Updated 10:18, 7 MAY 2019

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They are up there with the most popular visitor attractions in Glasgow - and they both just so happen to be two of the most magnificent locations the city can boast.

Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis are part of the cultural fabric of this area, magnificent structures which stand in the spot where Scotland's biggest city first took shape.

The breathtaking medieval cathedral, also known as the High Kirk, St Kentigern's or St Mungo's, is thought to have been built on the site of St Kentigern’s tomb, hence it marking the birthplace of Glasgow.

It's the only structure of its kind which survived the Reformation of 1560 intact, making it the country's oldest mainland cathedral and the oldest building in the whole of Glasgow.

The awe-inspiring building was built in the 1100s on the site where St Kentigern (or Mungo) is thought to have been buried in AD 612.

And St Kentigern, in case you didn't know, was the first bishop within the ancient British kingdom of Strathclyde.

To the east of this historic worship place, on a low but prominent hill, stands the iconic 37-acre Necropolis .

The Victorian Cemetery was created in 1832, modeled on Père-Lachaise in Paris. It is estimated that something in the order of 50,000 burials have taken place here, with around 3,500 tombs within its spectacular grounds.

Built in the Classical Revival architectural fashion, the Necropolis was established by the Merchants' House of Glasgow in 1831. A monument to John Knox, which was erected in 1825, dominates the hill.

But what can you expect if you're planning a trip to these attractions?

What are the opening hours?

• Glasgow Cathedral

April 1 - September 30

Mon to Sat, 9.30am to 5.30pm  Sun, 1pm to 5pm  Last entry 5pm (Sunday 4.30pm)  Last entry to Lower Church 4.45pm (Sunday 3.30pm)  Oct 1 to Mar 31: Mon to Sat, 10am to 4pm  Sun, 1pm to 4pm  Last entry 3.30pm  Last entry to Lower Church 3.15pm

You can check for unexpected closures here.

It's open all day, every day. But you'd probably want to avoid it at night if you're a big fearty likes us. 

How much does it cost?

Admission to Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis is free.

Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult in the cathedral.

What to see and do?

• Step down into the crypt built in the mid-1200s to house the tomb of St Kentigern
• See the pulpitum, a richly carved stone screen between choir and nave added in the early 1400s
• Look up at the Blackadder aisle’s ceiling, studded with brightly painted carved stone bosses
• Find the effigy of Bishop Wishart, an ally of William Wallace and Robert the Bruce
• Take our fun fact-finding Explorer Quiz or Symbol Spotter Quiz while visiting the cathedral. Available on site

There are guided walking tours organised by the Friends of Glasgow Necropolis

The Necropolis is a Victorian garden cemetery stuffed full of architecture, sculptures and fascinating stories.

It's designed like an informal park, as were most Victorian burial grounds, and it's complex paths head up the hill towards the summit, where the bigger monuments surround the John Knox structure.

As well as tombs designed by notables including Alexander Thomson, John Bryce and David Hamilton, there are also a host of historical statues to look at including the tomb of Mrs Lockhart, the mausoleum of Major Archibald Douglas Monteath, the tomb of William Motherwell, the Blackie publishing family tomb and the tomb to Mrs Margaret Montgomorie.

The main entrance is reached by a bridge which was designed by David Hamilton and completed in 1836 and it's a nod to the Bridge of Sighs in Venice because of its route for funeral processions.

The ornate gates (by both David and James Hamilton) were erected in 1838, restricting access onto the bridge.

Three modern memorials lie between the gates and the bridge: a memorial to still-born children; a memorial to the Korean War; and a memorial to Glaswegian recipients of the Victoria Cross.

Glasgow Necropolis also holds graves of 19 Commonwealth service personnel and dozens of former provosts are buried there.

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