St. James' Cemetery

St. James Cemetery Toronto: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Located at 635 Parliament Street, St. James Cemetery is Toronto’s oldest operating cemetery and a vital link to the city’s social, cultural, and architectural past. Established in 1844 to relieve the overcrowded Anglican burial grounds near St. James Cathedral, the cemetery is an evocative testament to Toronto’s transition from a colonial outpost to a modern, diverse metropolis. Its Victorian-era design, notable monuments, and the striking Chapel of St. James-the-Less make it a destination for historians, genealogists, architecture enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquility in the heart of the city.

This guide provides detailed information on St. James Cemetery’s visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, historical context, notable interments, and nearby attractions—helping you plan a respectful and enriching visit (St. James Cemetery Official History, Toronto.com, Wikipedia).

History and Establishment
Victorian Expansion and Architectural Significance
Transition to Inclusivity
Notable Interments
Modernization and Preservation
Visitor Information
Getting There and Nearby Attractions
Events and Community Engagement
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Recommendations
References

History and Establishment

St. James Cemetery’s origins trace back to Toronto’s early colonial period, when the city—then called York—relied on a small burial ground adjacent to St. James Cathedral at King and Church Streets (The Canadian Encyclopedia). By the early 1840s, population growth rendered the original site inadequate. Church leaders, guided by John G. Howard’s vision, selected a scenic, elevated site overlooking the Don Valley to establish a new cemetery. Opened in July 1844, St. James Cemetery marked a pivotal shift in burial practices, reflecting the era’s embrace of park-like, contemplative landscapes over crowded churchyards (St. James’ Cemetery Official History).

Victorian Expansion and Architectural Significance

The cemetery rapidly became the final resting place for Toronto’s elite and later, citizens of all backgrounds. Its design exemplifies the Victorian “garden cemetery” movement, with winding paths, stately mature trees, and memorials ranging from simple markers to impressive mausoleums (Stone and Dust).

A highlight is the Chapel of St. James-the-Less, completed in 1861. Designed by Cumberland and Storm, this Gothic Revival chapel is crafted from Georgetown stone and “white” brick with Ohio stone trim, occupying a prominent knoll within the cemetery. The chapel was designated a National Historic Site for its architectural and cultural significance in 1990 (Parks Canada Directory).

Transition to Inclusivity

Originally established for the Anglican community, St. James Cemetery gradually opened its gates to people of all faiths and backgrounds, mirroring Toronto’s growing diversity. Today, the cemetery’s inclusive approach is reflected in the wide range of religious and cultural communities represented among its interments (Wikipedia).

Notable Interments

St. James Cemetery is a microcosm of Toronto’s history, with graves of individuals who shaped the city and nation:

Robert Baldwin: Architect of responsible government in Canada (Connexions).
James Austin: Founder of Dominion Bank (precursor to TD Bank) (Toronto.com).
Fathers of Confederation: William Pearce Howland and James Cockburn.
The Gooderham Family: Pioneers in Toronto’s distilling industry.
Casimir Gzowski: Influential engineer and railway builder.
E.J. Lennox: Renowned architect (Old City Hall, Casa Loma).
Jack Layton: Former leader of the NDP (The Canadian Encyclopedia).
Peter Gzowski: Celebrated journalist and broadcaster.
John J. McLaughlin: Founder of Canada Dry.

The cemetery also contains war graves, artists, clergy, and generations of Toronto families (Stone and Dust).

Modernization and Preservation

St. James Cemetery has evolved to meet changing needs, adding a crematorium in 1948—one of Toronto’s first. By 2020, it had recorded over 95,000 interments and 114,000 cremations (St. James’ Cemetery Official Site). Major preservation projects include slope stabilization, crematorium upgrades, and the restoration of historic monuments and the chapel (Toronto Star). The cemetery’s management, under the Cathedral Church of St. James, is dedicated to balancing historic preservation with contemporary needs.

Visitor Information

Hours and Admission

Standard Time (Nov–Mar): 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Daylight Saving Time (Mar–Nov): 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
Office Hours: Monday–Thursday 8:30 am–4:30 pm, Friday 8:30 am–4:00 pm, Saturday 9:00 am–12:00 pm (Closed Sundays/holidays)
Admission: Free for self-guided visits. Donations are welcome (St. James’ Cemetery).

Tickets and Tours

Guided Tours: Offered periodically, especially during events like Doors Open Toronto, and through partnerships with Heritage Toronto or the Cabbagetown Preservation Association. Some tours may require tickets or pre-booking (Toronto.com).
Self-Guided Tours: Maps are available on-site and online, with themed routes such as Commonwealth War Graves and Queen’s Own Rifles (St. James’ Cemetery Tours).

Accessibility

The cemetery is wheelchair accessible, with paved main paths and accessible buildings. Some older areas may be uneven. Service animals are welcome (St. James’ Cemetery).

Facilities and Etiquette

Restrooms: Available during office hours.
Seating: Benches located throughout the grounds.
Parking: Limited on-site parking.
Photography: Permitted for personal use; commercial or event photography requires permission.
Etiquette: Remain respectful, quiet, and appropriately dressed. The cemetery is an active burial ground.

Getting There and Nearby Attractions

Address: 635 Parliament Street, Toronto, ON, M4X 1R1 (Tripomatic)

Directions

By Subway: Bloor-Yonge to Castle Frank, exit and walk south to Parliament.
By Streetcar: 501 Queen eastbound to Parliament, then north.
By Bus: Multiple TTC routes serve Parliament Street.
On Foot: From Cabbagetown or St. James Town, walk north on Parliament (Evendo).

Nearby Attractions

Cabbagetown: Historic neighborhood with Victorian architecture and local shops.
Riverdale Park: Green space with city skyline views.
Distillery District: Vibrant arts and dining precinct.
Don Valley Trails: Hiking and cycling routes.
St. James Cathedral: Original burial ground and architectural landmark.

Events and Community Engagement

St. James Cemetery actively participates in city-wide events such as Doors Open Toronto, offering guided tours and educational programming. The cemetery also hosts commemorative ceremonies, volunteer opportunities, and supports local heritage and preservation initiatives (St. James’ Cemetery).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: 8:00 am–5:00 pm (Nov–Mar), 8:00 am–7:00 pm (Mar–Nov). Office hours vary.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No, self-guided visits are free. Some tours may require tickets.

Q: Are tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours are offered during special events and by local heritage groups.

Q: Is the cemetery accessible?
A: Main paths are accessible; some older sections may be uneven.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, for personal use. Commercial use requires permission.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Check with the office; service animals are permitted.

Q: How do I locate a specific grave?
A: Use the cemetery’s online resources or request assistance at the office (City of Toronto website, Gravestone Photographic Resource).

Conclusion and Recommendations

St. James Cemetery is an essential part of Toronto’s urban and cultural landscape. Its Victorian ambiance, historic monuments, and inclusive approach make it a destination for reflection, learning, and community engagement. Plan your visit during spring or autumn for the most picturesque experience, and consider joining a guided tour to unlock the stories behind the stones.

For more insights and up-to-date event schedules, visit the official St. James Cemetery website. Download the Audiala app for audio tours, and follow St. James Cemetery and Heritage Toronto on social media for news and special events. Explore nearby neighborhoods like Cabbagetown and the Distillery District to round out your heritage experience.