Explore historic chapels, lodges, and the crypt
Arnos Vale Cemetery, West Lodge, Bath Road, Arnos Vale, Bristol, Bristol, BS4 3EW
Arnos Vale is home to four remarkable historic buildings: two Entrance Lodges and two Mortuary Chapels (Anglican and Non-conformist). Designed by Bristol architect Charles Underwood, all four are Grade II* listed and inspired by Ancient Greek temple architecture.
Each building reflects one of the three classical architectural styles. The Anglican Chapel is built in the ornate Corinthian style and features a bell tower and balustrade. Beneath it lies the Crypt, a unique Grade II*-listed subterranean space originally designed during the Victorian era for above-ground interments. Today, it regularly hosts historical tours, exhibitions, and community events.
The Non-conformist Chapel (now the Spielman Centre) is in the elegant Ionic style, with carved columns and a decorative frontage. The two Entrance Lodges are in the simpler Doric style and welcome visitors arriving from the Bath Road entrance.
Join a free tour of the cemetery on Sunday 13 September, 11am and Sunday 20 September at 1.30pm. Must be booked in advance
Timings
- Sunday 13 September:
- 10.30am-4.30pm
- Sunday 20 September:
- 10.30am-4.30pm
Location & directions
Arnos Vale Cemetery, West Lodge, Bath Road, Arnos Vale, Bristol, Bristol, BS4 3EW
- Directions:
- On foot or bike Enter from Bath Road entrance, Cemetery Road, or Arnos Park. Bike racks available By train The nearest station is Temple Meads, a mile to the west By bus Services 1, X39, 57, 178 and 349 stop a short walk from the Bath Road gates By car Use postcode BS4 3EW for the main Bath Road entrance. There is limited parking by the chapels.
- Contact on day:
- Janine Marriott
- Telephone number:
- +11179719117
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking required
- Booking conditions:
- Free tours must be booked in advance via our website arnosvale.org.uk/events Explore the beautiful architecture and amazing graves of Bristol’s past and hear stories of the people involved on this specially designed tour. Learn fascinating facts about Arnos Vale and enjoy the beautiful landscape. Most of this tour is on the flat and the tour lasts 1 hour. Tours take place on Sunday 13 September, 11am and Sunday 20 September, 1.30pm
- Booking website:
- https://arnosvale.org.uk/heritage-open-days-arnos-vale-2026
- Booking opens:
- 30 Jun 2026 12:00 AM
Accessibility details
The historic nature of the site and the sloping landscape mean that not all spaces are fully accessible. Blue badge parking spaces are at each chapel The Ceremonial Way leading from the main gates to the Anglican Chapel, Spielman Centre and Café, is flat and tarmacked Café and Spielman Centre have sloped access with handrails Accessible toilet at Spielman (lift access) Ramp access to both the West Lodge (Books of Remembrance room) and the East Lodge (shop and reception).
