Victorian chapel at Hither Green Cemetery reopens for services

With beautiful original tiled flooring and stained glass, the Victorian remembrance chapel at Hither Green Cemetery has now reopened after a six-year hiatus.

Built in 1873 by architect William Webster, the chapel has a gothic edifice and matching interiors. It can now be booked by mourners for funerals and memorial events. The venue is also available for hire for other events such as weddings or art exhibits.

Closed in December 2019 due to the COVID pandemic, the council saw an opportunity to invest in the building and update it, with modern audio-visual equipment and a more environmentally friendly building system.

Cllr Olaru-Holmes re-opened the chapel at a ribbon cutting ceremony on 17 September.

Bookings are now open for the space, which has a capacity of 75, with prices starting at £175 per event.

Cllr Oana Olaru-Holmes, Cabinet Member for Safer Lewisham, Refugees and Equalities, said: "This chapel has always been a special place for local families, and I’m delighted it can once again provide comfort and dignity at times of loss. Our investment protects its history while ensuring it meets the needs of today.”

People wanting to enquire about hiring the space can email bereavement@lewisham.gov.uk