The cemetery, designed by Thomas Little, opened in 1855 and is currently recognised in Historic England's Register of  Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest in England.

 

Our Mission

Formed in 2000, we are a group of local residents and mourners who have the shared objective of conserving and protecting this historic piece of central London.

Our mission is the preservation, conservation, sympathetic restoration and, where appropriate, enhancement of Paddington Old Cemetery, including the buildings, monuments, standing structures, graves, landscape and records held.

What We've Achieved

  • We have set up a Community Liaison Group including all interested parties to the use of the cemetery to work with Brent cemetery department alongside Heritage and Tree Officers and local Councillors to ensure improved communication and early engagement on all proposed changes to the way the space is managed.

  • We have shone a spotlight on the current condition of the chapels in the cemetery. Essential repairs to prevent further decay have been carried out and we are currently working with Brent and London Historic Buildings Trust to explore a funding proposal for the preservation and long term use for the chapels

  • We are working actively with Brent Council, who manage the cemetery, on biodiversity. We have planted two wildflower areas to support the cemetery’s varied wildlife and 100m of bird and bee friendly hedgerow around the mound.

  • We have planted 40 trees out of a long term proposal to add 60 major trees to the space - a mixture of elms, lime, hornbeams, cherry and austrian pines to ensure longevity to the Grade II Listed landscape.

  • We are discussing with Brent repairs to graves and seeking new ways of working to prevent further damage.

  • We regularly litter pick in the grounds and report issues such as Japanese Knotweed.