Stay at Sexton’s Lodge, Sheffield Cemetery
Sexton’s Lodge is a small, self-contained rental in the portico of the Grade II* listed gatehouse to Sheffield General Cemetery, just outside Sheffield city centre.
Sheffield General Cemetery opened in 1836, in what was then considered a quiet, rural area outside the city. Over time, it became the main burial ground for Victorian Sheffield, with around 87,000 people laid to rest there.
Today, the cemetery is a Grade II* listed historic park, the highest level of protection for a park in Sheffield. It is also designated as a Conservation Area, a Local Nature Reserve, and an Area of Natural History Interest. The site includes ten listed structures including catacombs, the Anglican Chapel, the Gatehouse, the Nonconformist Chapel, and the Egyptian Gateway.
One of the most unusual features is the largest common grave in the country, where 85 individuals were buried in a single plot. The cemetery is also the final resting place of several notable figures from Sheffield’s past, including industrialist Mark Firth and political reformer Samuel Holberry.
The Airbnb opened in 2021. It’s simply furnished with original 19th-century pieces and antique lighting, giving it a quiet, characterful feel. Most things in the lodge were sourced locally, which gives it a nice connection to the area. There’s a selection of books on local history, nature and the development of cemeteries, as well as titles written by volunteers and local authors. You’ll also find a few board games.
There’s a living/dining area, a compact but well-equipped kitchen, a shower room, and a bedroom with twin beds that can be set up as singles or a superking. Outside, there’s a small, private gravel garden, put together by volunteers. It’s south-facing, so it catches the sun, and has an old bench if you want to sit out.
Volunteers based at the gatehouse may be around during the day, so there can occasionally be a bit of activity or noise when they’re starting work.
The location of Sexton's Lodge is convenient for guests. Ecclesall Road is close by, with plenty of restaurants and bars, and Sharrow Vale (about a five-minute walk) has a good mix of independent shops, cafés and pubs.
You can book a stay at Sexton's Lodge here: