Visit
Tap a section or a numbered landmark to learn what is there. Looking for a particular grave? Search the burial records and we will show you the section.
1847 – 1885
The original burying ground, laid out by Captain Thorne's surveyor in rough rows facing east. Many of the earliest markers are soft sandstone and white marble, and some have been reset more than once. Unmarked graves from the 1854 cholera year lie along the north wall.
Closed to new sales
1855 – 1920
The high ground around Thorne Chapel. Families who could afford it chose the hill, so you will find obelisks, carved urns and the cemetery's finest Victorian ironwork here.
Closed to new sales
1870 – 1935
Three stepped terraces cut into the slope in 1870, with granite retaining walls built by local masons. The terraces hold some of the best lettering in the county.
Closed to new sales
1900 – 1970
A quiet ridge along the east boundary, shaded by a row of sugar maples planted in 1902. A small number of resale graves become available here each year.
Limited availability
1880 – 1950
The gentle western slope running down to the Mere. Popular with working families in the mill years, it holds many modest granite tablets and a cluster of stones from the 1918 influenza.
Limited availability
1890 – 1960
A ring of graves around the great weeping beech, planted in 1890 and now the cemetery's best loved tree. The circular lane was designed so a carriage could pause without turning.
Closed to new sales
1985 – today
A walled garden beside the chapel with the Hollowmere columbarium, cremation garden beds and the scattering lawn. Benches face south for the afternoon light.
Available
1915 – 1955
Set aside in 1919 for Elderbrook's service men and women. The cenotaph lists 64 names from both World Wars, including many who are buried overseas. Remembrance Day is held here every November 11.
Closed to new sales
1930 – 1990
Named for the elms that lined it until Dutch elm disease took them in the 1970s. Disease-resistant Liberty elms were replanted in 2008 and now arch over the path again.
Limited availability
1975 – today
Our current section for traditional burial, with upright and flat markers allowed. Graves are sold in singles, pairs and family groups of four or more.
Available
2014 – today
Green burial in a restored tallgrass meadow. No embalming, no vaults, biodegradable caskets and shrouds only. Graves are marked with flat fieldstone and recorded by GPS.
Available