Rectory Lane Cemetery, Berkhamsted

As a historic site, the terrain and layout of Rectory Lane Cemetery can present a few challenges. Our current landscaping programme has focussed on improving accessibility.

Current condition

• Access up Rectory Lane to the main gates is a tarmac road, moderately inclined but in generally good condition
• Formerly stony paths have been upgraded to resin-bound gravel paths, creating a solid, all-weather surface suitable for wheelchairs and buggies
• These paths take you around the lower, Victorian, section of the cemetery and up as far as the Garden of Remembrance and Three Close Lane entrance
• Beyond the Three Close Lane gates the paths are grassed and the ground softer so after wet weather it can get a bit muddy
• It is possible to cross the cemetery from the lower gates to the upper gates without meeting steps
• Many gravestones and low-level burial stones are located around the site and not always in even rows
• The incline increases from the bottom to the top of the site
• The very top terrace can be accessed step-free from the central path or with steps and handrails via the two outer paths
• There are seats throughout the cemetery so frequent rests can be taken, all with a view!
• Cycle racks have been installed at the Rectory Lane entrance

Future improvements

• The creation of two designated short-term blue-badge parking spaces just inside the Rectory Lane Gates

We would like to encourage visits by public transport (bus stop on High Street; Berkhamsted Train Station only 8-10 minutes walk) and by foot and cycle (the Cemetery can be reached from all parts of the town). Apart from the two disabled spaces, there will be no public parking at the site.

We are here to help

If you have any concerns, questions or suggestions about access to the cemetery, please get in touch with us before your visit and we will try to make your visit enjoyable and as easy as possible.