A CEMETERY in Bristol has been named as the most visited free attraction in the South West. More than half a million people visited Arnos Vale Cemetery Trust in 2022 and 2023, making it one of the UK's most visited attractions. Arnos Vale Cemetery Trust beat the likes of other attractions in Bristol, including the famous Clifton Suspension Bridge, to the top spot.
The research, which was produced by Visit Britain , analysed information such as visitor numbers, entrance fees, accessibility by public transport, funding and marketing and communication to work out the country's most visited attractions. The Victorian cemetery, which is clearly popular with visitors, first opened in 1837. Burials started taking place at the Bristol cemetery in 1839.
One of the cemetery's most notable residents is Rajah Ram Mohun Roy, a Hindu reformer who died during a visit to Bristol. His Grade II listed chattri (a Bengali funeral monument) lies near the main entrance to this day. Other famous residents, who are also local heroes, include George Müller and Mary Carpenter.
Visitors can learn more about the history of the cemetery at West Lodge, which doubles as the visitor centre. Set in 45 acres of grounds, Arnos Vale Cemetery Trust has proven to be popular with visitors thanks to its green spaces. Visitors can take themselves on self-guided walks of the cemetery by following the Discovery Trail.
Bird watching is another popular activity on the site, with flycatchers and redstarts often spotted.