Golders Green Crematorium

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Coordinates: 51°34′29″N, 0°11′51″W

Golders Green Crematorium and Mausoleum was the first crematorium to be opened in London, and one of the oldest crematoria in Britain. It is owned by the London Cremation Co plc, and opened in 1902, designed by the architect Sir Ernest George.

Since its opening Golders Green Crematorium has become the flagship of crematoriums the world over. It has pioneered cremation and its practices. But what probably sets Golders Green apart is its association with the funerals of many of the great names of British history over the last century.

Golders Green Crematorium, as it is usually called, is in Hoop Lane, off the Finchley Road, Golders Green, London NW11, five minutes walk from Golders Green tube station. It is directly opposite an extensive Jewish cemetery (Golders Green is an area with a high Jewish population). The Crematorium is secular, accepts all faiths, and all kinds of non-believers; clients may arrange their own type of service or remembrance event, and choose whatever music they wish.

The crematorium's buildings have an Italianate style, and include a notable tower, visible in the photograph below, which contains the chimney from the crematoria. The twelve acres of gardens are extensively planted, and produce a beautiful and tranquil environment for visitors. There are several large tombs, two ponds and bridge, and a large crocus lawn. Another notable feature is a special children's section, which includes a swinging bench. There is also a 'communist corner' with notables of the Communist Party of Great Britain. There are two cremation chapels and a chapel of remembrance. There are also three columbariums containing the ashes of thousands of Londoners.

There are grave locations for 14 holders of the Victoria Cross cremated here, and there are locations and memorials for many other military personnel of all ranks, and from many countries.

At Christmas, although the crematorium is secular, a Christmas tree is erected on the field in front of the main buildings, and a nativity scene is placed near the chapel of remembrance.