Graveyards: not all spooky

In Victorian times, the rich and famous put as much effort into planning their final resting places as their lavish homes and clothes while they were alive. No simple headstone for these people who wanted to leave their mark for posterity.

Highgate West Cemetery, a wild place that is also a nature conservation area, was opened more than 150 years ago and features catacombs, the Lebanon Circle and the Egyptian Avenue. The guide will tell you all about burial practices, the history of the place and the famous - and infamous - tenants.

No children under eight are permitted. Brompton Cemetery is a more refined and elegant place, but none the less fascinating, with many eminent men and women buried here. There are tours every second and fourth Sunday, and on 27 July a free Peter Rabbit picnic with a display of hawks and carriage rides from 10am-5pm.

Highgate West Cemetery, Swains Lane, N6 Times vary, booking advised Cost: £3 or £4 with camera Tube: Archway/ Highgate Call: 020 8340 1834 Brompton Cemetery, Old Brompton Road, SW5 Times: Tours at 2pm Cost: Adults £3, children free Tube: West Brompton (Meet at South Lodge, Fulham Road end) Call: 020 7351 9936>