Introduction to Dunstable Cemetery

Dunstable Cemetery is situated just off West Street (how to find us) and first opened as a burial facility for the people of Dunstable in 1861.

The Cemetery is an 18-acre award winning Green Flag Site approximately 10 minutes walk from the town centre.

Victorian by design, the Cemetery has been in constant use for 160 years. The first burial took place on the 22 October 1861 when 4-year-old James Turney, the son of Thomas Turney “a groom of West Street” was interred.

The Cemetery is also home to 48 War Graves from both World War wars which are looked after and maintained by the War Graves Commission. There are also a number of notable memorials to local dignitaries, business leaders and others responsible for influencing the growth and development of the town.

The Cemetery has been managed and maintained by Dunstable Town Council since 1985 and rules and regulations are in place support this management. The Cemetery Service is ICCM Charter for the Bereaved accredited and is managed in accordance with the Charter principles. In recent years the Council has been responsible for refurbishing the original Victorian cemetery chapel and increasing the size of the site. The chapel is available for burial services (by prior arrangement) and is open daily for people to visit as a place for quiet reflection.

Traditionally, graves within the Cemetery have been arranged in sections determined on faith grounds split into consecrated burial areas (Church of England) and non-consecrated burial areas (all other faiths). There are also separate sections for the burial of children and the interment of cremated remains. The burial area which is currently in use for new burials is not consecrated and is available for people of all faiths and beliefs.  In addition, a small area for memorial plaques has been created, and Sactums are also available for the above ground interment of cremated remains. The cemetery also has a book of Remembrance on display which can be viewed daily.

Dunstable Cemetery is a beautiful and tranquil place to visit for those mourning the loss of loved ones and a time for reflection. The area benefits from some beautiful trees and a wide variety of wildflowers, birds and animals. With its extensive footpath network and beautiful tree scape, the Cemetery is an ideal place for walking and quiet contemplation. An information lectern has been erected in the Cemetery naming just a few of the plants, animals, and habitats that you will see through the seasons.