Opened in 1836 with half consecrated ground and half unconsecrated. It was originally conceived as a grand and peaceful alternative to overcrowded city churchyards. It was originally managed by the Corporation of Newcastle and is now managed by Newcastle Council. It has been described as \'the Highgate of the North\' and has its own local history book \'A Fine and Private Place\' by Alan Morgan (whereas all the other notable churchyards/ cemeteries in Newcastle have another book between them). It had its own volunteer group, \'Friends of Jesmond Old Cemetery\', who look after the cemetery and have various burial information on their website: www.jesmondoldcemetery.co.uk Notable burials in more recent years include Julia Darling, the local poet, playwright and inspiration to many, who was buried there in 2005. http://www.jesmondoldcemetery.co.uk/darling_85.html