CWGC Tours 2026 - Southampton Old Cemetery

Join the Commonwealth War Graves Commission for a free tour of Southampton Old Cemetery, led by one of our experienced volunteer tour guides.

Our tours are free to the public, but if you would like to support us then please consider donating to our charity The Commonwealth War Graves Foundation (CWGF).

https://foundation.cwgc.org/donate/

MEETING POINT is inside the main gate at the Cross of Sacrifice located on the lawn.

This cemetery, was made in 1846 under Act of Parliament, and it now covers 27 acres and contains 104 scattered Commonwealth war graves of the 1914-18 War, a plot of 21 1914-18 War Belgians and 15 Commonwealth war graves of the 1939-45 War.

On this walk we will visit the graves of the men in the armed forces who died during WW1. These men were in service and in uniform, but were in England at the time of their death. The reason why they were at home varied - home on leave, being stationed at or near home in support or training roles, or had been at the front but had been badly wounded so sent home for treatment. Because they died at home they were often given a family funeral and buried in the local church yard or cemetery because at the time, the focus on war deaths was on the front lines. It was a few years post war that home burials began to be commemorated by a Commonwealth War Grave Commission. I am very privileged to be able to tell you the stories of these men and their war effort, so they are not forgotten.

The tour lasts approx. 60 mins and covers about 800 metres on paths and grass with uneven ground.

Parking is available on Cemetery Road. There are no on-site facilities and toilets, so please bring water if required.

Please dress for the weather and wear suitable footwear.

Only assistance dogs are allowed in the cemetery.

Please note there can be last minute cancellations. This can be due to various reasons including illness, site issues and weather. We will email you as soon as we can, but this could include the morning of the tour, so please check your emails prior to leaving for the tour.

The Commonwealth War Graves Foundation (CWGF) aims to actively engage all communities with the work of the CWGC by telling the inspiring stories through education and outreach projects.

The CWGF is an independent charity registered with the Charity Commission of England and Wales (1171947) and Scotland (SC051982).

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