I’ve always known that my Great, Great, Great, Great Uncle was buried in Highgate Cemetery, and it’s been on my list to visit his grave one day. When I booked a trip to attend a wedding, I contacted the cemetery to see if they could point me in the right direction and maybe share a bit of history.
To my surprise, the Visitor Experience Manager replied, saying it would be his great pleasure to host me, and even referred to my ancestor as one of their “celebrity clients”! He arranged for a volunteer guide, Stuart, who had written articles about Gt, Gt, Gt, Gt Uncle John.
John Atcheler, also known as Jack the Knacker, was a horse slaughterer “by appointment to HM Queen Victoria.” Quite a title? He had a reputation as a colourful character with a few rumours attached to his name, though Stuart had done a ton of research and set the record straight. Still, John came across as a bit of a lovable rogue.
My sister and I arrived and were warmly welcomed by the Nick, the manager, who introduced us to Stuart. He guided us around both cemeteries, sharing stories about the burials, memorials, and other notable figures resting there. We even had rare access to the catacombs—normally closed to the public, which was fascinating. Eventually, we reached two Atcheler graves: one where John is buried, and another where his third wife and one of his sons are laid to rest.
Highgate itself is breathtaking. Parts of it are weathered with age, but there’s so much care going into restoration that the whole place feels alive with history. Even in the daylight, with sun filtering through the trees, the atmosphere had an otherworldly mix of peace and mystery.
From a paranormal angle, I didn’t sense much beyond that slightly eerie vibe—though my sister thought something touched her arm at one point. Could have just been a spider’s web… but still a little spooky!
Enjoy the pics, you’ll spot the Atcheler memorial where John is interred, as well as another with a stone horse marking the family grave.
Cheers,
Sean
