A discovery walk with an expert guide from the Friends of West Norwood Cemetery as part of the Lambeth Heritage Festival 2026

The Friends of West Norwood Cemetery is a charity dedicated to the care and preservation of this extraordinary cemetery. Your support is greatly appreciated.

Step into the world of Charles Dickens with an fascinating tour at West Norwood Cemetery. Discover the extensive connections between this major Victorian author and the figures who shaped his life and career. Did you know Dickens attended the funerals of two close friends here – Sir Thomas Talfourd in 1854 and Douglas Jerrold in 1857? But that’s just the beginning.

Join us as we visit the final resting places of key individuals who played pivotal roles in Dickens' journey, from the publisher Richard Bentley to artist George Cattermole, and many more.This is a rare opportunity to uncover fascinating stories behind the names and faces who influenced the works we know and love today.

Your guide, Paul Graham, is an expert with deep ties to Dickens' legacy. As the former Honorary Secretary of the Dickens Fellowship and Trustee of the Charles Dickens Museum, Paul brings a wealth of knowledge and passion. He’s written extensively on Dickens and also wrote our booklet "West Norwood Cemetery: The Dickens Connection." With Paul leading the way, you’ll gain unparalleled insight into the remarkable lives entwined with Dickens' own.

Don’t miss out on this captivating journey through history – a must for Dickens fans and history lovers alike!

Please meet by the entrance archway in good time for a prompt start at 2.30pm.

How to get here:

West Norwood Cemetery and Crematorium SE27 9JU is next to St Luke's Church and West Norwood Library

Buses: 2, 68, 196, 315, 322, 432 and 468 (several of these routes go via Brixton Tube Station: 2, 196, 322, 432). Robson Road stop

Train: West Norwood Station (trains to and from London Bridge/Victoria)

Memorial to Sir Thomas Noon Talfourd, who introduced Charles Dickens to London literary society. Dickens dedicated The Pickwick Papers to him and attended his funeral at West Norwood Cemetery.

Description supplied by the event organiser.