St Mary Magdalen Churchyard Park
by Southwark Council
A popular space for picnic lunches, the former churchyard of the 17th century church of St Mary Magdelen is still dotted with fine old limestone monuments left by the prosperous local tanners and
brewers of the 18th and 19th centuries. The sarcophagi, miniature temples and obelisks are shaded by a stands of mature trees- planes, poplar, cherry, even exotic gingko. Seasonal planting and medicinal
herbs behind the tiny 19th century watch-house are a reminder of the historic Bermondsey Abbey gardens which stood on the site of Bermondsey Square to the south.
Can you find… the grave of Nathaniel Smith, a local tanner?
