A HIDDEN BRITISH GEM IN VALENCIA INVITES YOU TO A VERY SPECIAL CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE

Historic cemetery to host an English-language Christmas celebration featuring the Reverend Richard Coles on Saturday 5 December. Tucked away between flower shops and an area of scrubland, just across the road from Valencia’s municipal cemetery, lies one of the city’s most unexpected historical treasures: the beautiful British Cemetery of Valencia. Despite its fascinating history and peaceful gardens, this remarkable corner of the city remains largely unnoticed by passers-by.

Founded in 1830, the cemetery was established to provide a burial place for British families who had settled in the region, including those involved in the development of railway lines and docklands along the Valencian coast. Over time, it also became the final resting place for sailors from around the world who lost their lives while transporting wine and other goods through the Mediterranean.

In 1880, the cemetery was ceded to the British Embassy, and it has continued to welcome people from many different countries and backgrounds ever since. Although it remains Crown-owned, it receives no funding from the British government. Its upkeep therefore depends on the dedication and generosity of those who care about preserving this unique piece of Valencia’s international heritage.

This is where the Friends of the British Cemetery association comes in. Working to maintain the cemetery’s historic buildings and gardens, the association is also keen to raise awareness of its importance and encourage more people to discover this little-known landmark. New members are warmly welcomed, with support helping to safeguard the cemetery for future generations.

A Christmas carol service with a special guest

As part of its programme of open days and activities, the association is organising a very special event this December: an English-language Christmas carol service in the cemetery’s chapel.

This year’s celebration promises to be particularly memorable, with Reverend Richard Coles flying in to lead the service, alongside the Reverend Rodney Middleton, Assistant Chaplain of the Anglican Chaplaincy of the Costa Blanca.

The service will take place on Saturday 5 December 2026, at 18:00, offering English speakers and lovers of Christmas traditions an opportunity to come together, sing familiar carols and experience the peaceful atmosphere of this historic setting.

Whether you are a long-standing resident, a member of Valencia’s international community or simply someone who enjoys traditional Christmas music, everyone is welcome to join in.

However, those wishing to attend are asked to register their interest in advance by email.

EVENT DETAILS

• What: English-language Christmas Carol Service
• When: Saturday 5 December 2026, at 18:00h
• Where: British Cemetery of Valencia, Plaza Santo Domingo de Guzmán, 5, Valencia
• Organiser: Friends of the British Cemetery
• Registration: friendsbritishcemeteryvlc@gmail.com

A hidden historical gem, a welcoming community and the sound of Christmas carols in English: this is an opportunity to discover a different side of Valencia while helping to support the preservation of one of its most unusual and important heritage sites.

Report by ’24/7 Valencia’ team

Article copyright ’24/7 Valencia’