Streatham Jewish Cemetery, also known as Rowan Road Jewish Cemetery, is the only Jewish burial ground in South London. Opened in 1915, it was established by the Polish burial society Hesed V’Emet (“Kindness and Truth”) to provide a resting place for Jewish families living in Soho.
The cemetery is located right next door to Streatham Park Cemetery, but has a separate entrance. The two cemeteries are separated by a large fence.
Video of Streatham Jewish Cemetery
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A Brief History
Streatham Jewish Cemetery opened on 14 November 1915.
That same year, plans were made for a small prayer house, called an ohel. The white building you see today was built in 1932.
Most people buried here were Ashkenazi Jews. They lived in Soho and worked as tailors, cabinetmakers, and shopkeepers.
In 1968, the South London Liberal Synagogue began using part of the cemetery for burials.
The Cemetery Today
Streatham Jewish Cemetery adjoins Streatham Park Cemetery but has its own entrance on Rowan Road, London SW16 5JF.
It has tightly packed pathways and rows of tombstones, reflecting the traditional Jewish cemetery layout. There are also Commonwealth War Graves for Jewish service personnel from World War II.
The cemetery is a significant part of Jewish heritage in South London and offers a glimpse into the lives of Jewish families who helped shape London’s history.
Visiting Information
📍 Address: Streatham Jewish Cemetery, Rowan Road, London SW16 5JF
📍 Adjoining site: Streatham Park Cemetery, Rowan Road, London SW16 5JG
🕍 Managed by: The Western Charitable Foundation
📞 Contact: 020 7724 7702
Opening Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday from 8.00am – 4.00pm
- Friday from 8.00am – 12.00 noon
Closed on Saturdays and Jewish Festivals. There is an on-site caretaker available during opening times.
Photographs of Streatham Jewish Cemetery
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