
Ross Bay Cemetery Victoria BC
A historic seaside cemetery offering serene walks, stunning ocean views, and the resting place of notable figures.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gentle light, fewer crowds

Ross Bay Cemetery Victoria BC
Best Time
Gentle light, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic seaside cemetery offering serene walks, stunning ocean views, and the resting place of notable figures.
"A beautiful cemetery by the Salish Sea with a calm and relaxing atmosphere."

Wear Comfortable Shoes
Paths can be uneven; good walking shoes are a must for exploring the grounds comfortably. :athletic_shoe:
Check Opening Hours
Opens an hour after sunrise, closes an hour before sunset. Plan your visit accordingly. :clock1:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Oceanfront Views
Salish Sea shoreline
Breathtaking vistas of the Salish Sea provide a serene backdrop to the historic gravestones.

Historic Gravesites
Throughout the cemetery
Discover the final resting places of notable figures like Emily Carr and Sir James Douglas.

Majestic Trees
Shaded walking paths
Wander beneath ancient, towering trees that create a unique and atmospheric canopy.

Wildlife Encounters
Grassy areas and paths
Keep an eye out for local deer that often roam peacefully among the tombstones.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Anyone know the story behind this? Seen at Ross Bay Cemetery
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Paths can be uneven; good walking shoes are a must for exploring the grounds comfortably. :athletic_shoe:
Check Opening Hours
Opens an hour after sunrise, closes an hour before sunset. Plan your visit accordingly. :clock1:
One of my favourite places: Ross Bay Cemetery in Victoria BC
Ross Bay Cemetery, Victoria B.C., Canada
Respect the Quiet
It's a place of remembrance. Keep noise levels low and be mindful of others. :pray:
Look for Wildlife
Deer are often spotted here! Keep a respectful distance and enjoy the unique encounters. :deer:
What is the most unsettling place in Victoria?
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Paths can be uneven; good walking shoes are a must for exploring the grounds comfortably. :athletic_shoe:
Check Opening Hours
Opens an hour after sunrise, closes an hour before sunset. Plan your visit accordingly. :clock1:
Respect the Quiet
It's a place of remembrance. Keep noise levels low and be mindful of others. :pray:
Look for Wildlife
Deer are often spotted here! Keep a respectful distance and enjoy the unique encounters. :deer:
Bring a Camera
The scenery, historic stones, and wildlife offer fantastic photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Ross Bay Cemetery for its stunning ocean views, serene atmosphere, and impressive old trees. Many enjoy the unique experience of spotting deer roaming the grounds and appreciate the historical significance of the notable gravesites. While generally peaceful, some mention it can get windy, and the uneven paths require comfortable footwear.
"Ross Bay Cemetery, located in the Fairfield district at Ross Bay, has been in continuous use since 1872 and is maintained and managed by the City of Victoria.
Ross Bay was named after Isabella Mainville Ross. In the 1850s, Isabella Ross, an Indigenous woman, was the first woman to be a registered landowner in British Columbia. She named her 99-acre property overlooking Ross Bay Fowl Bay Farm because of its abundant waterfowl. Unfortunately, the farm was not successful and Isabella gradually sold the property to individual buyers. The City of Victoria purchased the remote slope overlooking Ross Bay for use as a cemetery in 1872. Isabella Ross died in 1885 at the age of 77 and was buried in an unmarked grave at Ross Bay Cemetery. In 1994, the Old Cemeteries Society installed an interpretive plaque at her grave site.
A number of prominent and well-known people are buried at Ross Bay Cemetery, including British Columbia's first governor, Sir James Douglas; artist Emily Carr; and the man famous for finding one of the earliest and largest strikes of the Cariboo Gold rush, Billy Barker."
Doug Ho
"An interesting walk if you like Cemetery's. There is some local history here, in terms of who is interred, with some founding family names. There is even a monument and obelisk referring to individuals who served on the HMS Victory back in the early 1800's, and many of the people here originated in England. Also a great place to see local wildlife as a deer population seems to have set up home in the cemetery and neighborhood. A friend makes this part of his weekly walking."
Graham Tranter
"Opens an hour after sunrise and closes an hour before sunset. Ross Bay cemetery has a rich history of burials that took place. Paul, the caretaker graced me with a guided tour through this piece of land with century old trees overlooking the ocean shore. The hanging judge, the millionaire that favoured her parrot to inherit it all, so many more and then the final resting place of Emily Carr. It’s a memorial place for many, with unnamed foreign soldiers’ crosses, fallen during the war and never made it back to their homeland."
Lynn24
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ross Bay Cemetery is located in the Fairfield district of Victoria, BC. You can reach it by car, with parking available on site. Public transit is also an option; check BC Transit for routes and schedules serving the Fairfield area. Many visitors also enjoy walking or cycling to the cemetery from downtown Victoria, as it's a scenic route along the waterfront.
Yes, public transit is available. Several BC Transit bus routes service the Fairfield neighborhood, with stops within walking distance of the cemetery. It's advisable to check the BC Transit website for the most current route information and schedules.
Yes, there is parking available at Ross Bay Cemetery. The parking areas are generally located near the main entrances, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. However, during peak times, parking might be limited.
Absolutely! Walking to Ross Bay Cemetery from downtown Victoria is a popular and enjoyable option. The walk takes approximately 30-45 minutes and offers beautiful views along the waterfront, making it a pleasant journey.
The cemetery is laid out with walking paths. While there isn't a formal map system readily available at the entrance, the paths are generally easy to follow. Many visitors enjoy simply wandering and discovering different sections. For specific historical figures, online resources or local historical societies might offer guidance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to enter Ross Bay Cemetery. It is a public space managed by the City of Victoria and is free to visit.
Ross Bay Cemetery opens one hour after sunrise and closes one hour before sunset daily. It's always a good idea to check local listings or the City of Victoria's parks department for any seasonal changes or special closures.
There is no admission fee to visit Ross Bay Cemetery. It is a public park and historical site, open for everyone to explore respectfully.
You can visit Ross Bay Cemetery during its operating hours, which are from one hour after sunrise to one hour before sunset. Visits outside these hours are not permitted.
While official guided tours may not be regularly scheduled, some visitors have reported positive experiences with caretakers or local historians offering impromptu insights. It's worth inquiring at the City of Victoria's parks department or local historical societies about potential guided options or self-guided tour materials.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Ross Bay Cemetery offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. You can explore the gravesites of notable figures like artist Emily Carr and BC's first governor, Sir James Douglas. The cemetery also boasts stunning ocean views, ancient trees, and is a habitat for local wildlife, including deer.
Yes, Ross Bay Cemetery is an excellent location for photography. The combination of historic tombstones, mature trees, ocean vistas, and occasional wildlife provides a wealth of picturesque subjects. The changing light throughout the day can create dramatic and beautiful shots.
Restroom facilities may be limited or seasonal. It's advisable to use facilities before arriving or be prepared for basic amenities. Check with the City of Victoria Parks Department for the most up-to-date information on available facilities.
While it's a peaceful place for reflection, formal picnics might not be encouraged due to its nature as a cemetery. However, enjoying a quiet moment with a snack is generally acceptable, provided you are respectful and clean up thoroughly. It's best to err on the side of quiet contemplation.
The cemetery has walking paths, but some can be uneven or sloped. While accessible in parts, visitors with mobility issues should be aware that some areas might be challenging. The main paths near the entrance and along the waterfront are generally more manageable.
🎫 🌳 Nature & Wildlife
Visitors frequently report seeing deer grazing peacefully within the cemetery grounds. You might also spot various bird species, given the mature trees and proximity to the coast. It's a surprisingly rich natural habitat.
The deer tend to roam throughout the cemetery, often found in the more open, grassy areas or near the tree lines. Keep an eye out during your walk, especially in the quieter sections away from the main entrances.
The cemetery is home to many mature and impressive trees, contributing to its serene and shaded atmosphere. These include various species that have grown over decades, creating a beautiful arboreal canopy.
It's important to maintain a respectful distance from all wildlife, including the deer. Do not attempt to feed them or get too close, as this can be harmful to the animals and potentially unsafe for visitors. Observe them from afar.
Yes, its location by the Salish Sea influences the local climate and ecosystem. It can contribute to a slightly cooler and windier environment, and the proximity to the water supports diverse birdlife and marine influences.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While it's a cemetery, the expansive grounds and beautiful old trees can feel like a park. It's a good opportunity to talk about history in a tangible way, perhaps focusing on interesting stories like that of Emily Carr or the early settlers. Keep the visit focused on exploration and observation, ensuring children understand the importance of respecting the quiet and solemn nature of the site.
🚶♀️ Solo Explorers & History Buffs
Researching notable figures like Emily Carr or Sir James Douglas beforehand can greatly enhance your visit. The cemetery's location also offers stunning ocean views, making it a perfect spot for reflective walks. It’s a place where you can truly immerse yourself in local history and enjoy the serene beauty of the surroundings at your own pace.
📸 Photographers
Look for unique compositions featuring weathered gravestones, intricate carvings, and the expansive ocean backdrop. The presence of deer can also add a captivating element to your shots. Remember to be mindful of the cemetery's purpose and capture images respectfully, focusing on the aesthetic and historical aspects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Walk Through History: Notable Figures
Other notable figures include Sir James Douglas, the first governor of British Columbia, who played a crucial role in the colony's early development. You'll also find the graves of individuals connected to the region's founding families, early settlers, and those who contributed to its growth. The cemetery also contains memorials for foreign soldiers who died during wartime, adding a poignant layer to its historical narrative.
Exploring these graves offers a tangible link to the past, allowing visitors to learn about the individuals who shaped Victoria and British Columbia. It's a quiet way to engage with local history and appreciate the stories held within the cemetery's grounds.
Nature's Sanctuary: Flora and Fauna
Visitors often express delight at encountering local wildlife, particularly the deer that have made the cemetery their home. These gentle creatures can frequently be seen grazing peacefully among the tombstones, adding a unique and heartwarming element to the experience. Birdwatchers will also find plenty to observe, with various species taking advantage of the mature trees and coastal proximity.
The cemetery's location overlooking the Salish Sea also influences its environment, sometimes bringing a refreshing sea breeze. This combination of historical gravitas and natural beauty makes Ross Bay Cemetery a unique destination for a peaceful walk and a chance to connect with both history and nature.
The Story of Isabella Ross
Despite her initial success, the farm faced challenges, and Isabella gradually sold portions of her land. In 1872, the City of Victoria purchased the remote slope overlooking Ross Bay for use as a cemetery. Tragically, Isabella Ross passed away in 1885 at the age of 77 and was buried in an unmarked grave within the very cemetery that now bears her name. Her story highlights the complex history of land ownership and the contributions of Indigenous women in early British Columbia.
In recognition of her legacy, the Old Cemeteries Society installed an interpretive plaque at her grave site in 1994. Visiting her memorial offers a chance to reflect on her pioneering spirit and her enduring connection to the land.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit