This unique walking tour, offered by The Friends of West Norwood Cemetery, invites participants to explore lesser-known aspects of Black British history through the lives of those laid to rest in this historic South London site. Far more than a resting place, the cemetery becomes a space for reflection and storytelling, stretching well beyond the familiar narrative of Empire Windrush.

Led by Dr Jane Jordan, the tour begins with the remarkable life of John Johnston Hamilton (1802–1866), a wealthy Black Victorian palm oil trader, whose mother had been born into slavery. His story opens a wider conversation about the British Empire’s economic entanglements with the Caribbean and West Africa, and the complex legacy of commodities like sugar and cocoa—represented here by Sir Henry Tate and James Epps. The tour will also address the uncomfortable history of individuals who benefitted directly from the compensation awarded to slave owners after the abolition of slavery.

Yet, alongside difficult truths, there is also much to celebrate. The tour will honour the achievements of individuals such as Alma Jean Henry, a Trinidadian opera singer and philanthropist; Oswald Manoah Denniston, a Windrush pioneer and founding member of the Association of Jamaicans, who made his mark in Brixton Market; and Joe Hunte, a community leader who worked tirelessly to improve relationships between immigrant communities and the police.

The walk begins at 2:00pm sharp at the arched main entrance to West Norwood Cemetery (SE27 9JU), which is located next to St Luke’s Church and West Norwood Library. The site is accessible by multiple bus routes, many of which pass through Brixton, and is a short walk from West Norwood rail station. Limited parking is available, and participants with mobility concerns are encouraged to reach out in advance for advice.

Dogs are not permitted in the cemetery. Tickets must be booked individually due to a system limitation, so those attending in pairs or groups should take note. Donations from this event will go toward supporting the ongoing preservation efforts of The Friends of West Norwood Cemetery, helping to safeguard this important space for future generation.