Heritage Open Days

This year, as part of Heritage Open Days’ theme of architecture, we’re inviting visitors to come and learn about the Cemetery’s history with a range of FREE events.

Discover the story behind the Cemetery’s unique built environment, from Samuel Worth’s bold Egyptian-inspired gateway to William Flockton’s elegant neo-gothic additions. Outdoor exhibition boards and an indoor display in the Samuel Worth Chapel will explore how these two architectural approaches reflect changing tastes in design, belief, and commemoration during the 19th century.

Join us for architectural tours, expert-led talks and creative activities for children, all for FREE in the peaceful surroundings of our Grade II* listed Victorian garden cemetery.

Architects & Architecture Outdoor Exhibition
Friday 12th to Sunday 21st September
Tickets: Free (No need to book, just turn up)
Learn about the architects buried in the Cemetery and the architectural styles of our historic buildings with our outdoor exhibition.

Burial Research Open Day
Thursday 18th September, 10.30am-3.30pm
Tickets: Free (No need to book, just turn up)
Have you ever wondered whether a relative, former resident of your home, or a local figure is buried in Sheffield General Cemetery? As part of Heritage Open Days, our dedicated team of researches will be hosting a Burial Research Open Day in the Samuel Worth Chapel. This is a relaxed drop-in session; admission is free and there is no need to book.
Click here to find out more.

Battle of the Architects Tour
Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st September, 11.00am
Tickets: Free ​(Please book in advance)
Explore the contrasting architectural visions of Sheffield General Cemetery on this free guided tour, from Samuel Worth’s bold Egyptian gateway to William Flockton’s elegant neo-gothic designs, and discover how these styles shaped one of the city’s most remarkable heritage sites.
Click here to find out more and book your tickets.

Heritage Open Days Talk | How the Church Lost the Plot: A History of Victorian Cemeteries
Saturday 20th September, 3.00-4.00pm
Tickets: Free ​(Please book in advance)
Join Dr Julie Rugg for a fascinating Heritage Open Days talk uncovering how Victorian burial politics, power struggles, and the Burial Acts shaped the Church of England’s dominance — and the cemeteries we know today.
Click here to find out more and book your tickets.

Heritage Open Days Talk | From Ruin to Revival: Restoring the Samuel Worth Chapel
Sunday 21st September, 3.00-4.00pm
Tickets: Free ​(Please book in advance)
Join Sheffield General Cemetery Trust’s Catie Evans and Phil Parnham for a behind-the-scenes Heritage Open Days talk revealing the history, challenges, and triumphs of restoring the Grade II* listed Samuel Worth Chapel into a thriving cultural venue.
Click here to find out more and book your tickets.

Indoor Architects & Architecture Exhibition
Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st September
Tickets: Free (No need to book, just turn up)
Inside the Samuel Worth Chapel, our latest exciting exhibition will explore the design history of the Cemetery, highlighting the people, ideas, and influences behind its unique architectural character.

Children’s Architectural Activities
Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st September, 10.00am-4.00pm
Tickets: Free (No need to book, just turn up)
Children can get hands-on with architecture through creative activities, including building their own models of the Samuel Worth Chapel and Anglican Church, and exploring the site with a fun, family-friendly trail sheet.

Thank You

This is a volunteer-led event for Sheffield General Cemetery Trust (Registered Charity Number: 1103158) with any donations going towards the charitable aims of the Trust. We thank you for your ongoing support in preserving this special place for generations to come.