During the Second World War, Nanyuki was the rail head for the advance into Ethiopia, via Isiolo, Marsabit and Wajir, and was also an important advance base for the Royal Air Force. The war cemetery was started during hostilities by the Army, the first burial taking place in February 1940. In 2008 the nearby Civil Cemetery burials were transfered here. Nanyuki War Cemetery now contains 196 Commonwealth burials of the Second World War. There are also 36 non-war burials and one Abyssinian war grave in the cemetery. Nanyuki is located about 165 kilometres north of Nairobi, on the north-western side of Mount Kenya. The Cemetery is about 4 kilometres along a paved road from the town centre. From Nanyuki's shopping area turn right onto the road to Mount Kenya Safari Club. The cemetery is down Mt Kenya Road on the left hand side, surrounded by well-manicured hedges, set well back with the short graveled entrance drive marked by boundary stones. The route is signposted from the centre of town. Nanyuki War Cemetery is open every day between 06:00 and 18:00. Outside of these hours the cemetery is locked with a combination padlock. If you are intending to visit this site outside of the opening hours the code to the padlock can be obtained from the office in Kenya on 00 254 20260 4301. The opening hours of this office are Monday-Friday 08:30-12:30, 13:30-16:30 (closed weekends). Wheelchair access to this site is somewhat possible via main entrance, although the driveway is gravel and the cemetery itself is mostly grass. For further information regarding wheelchair access, please contact the Enquiries Section on telephone number 01628 507200.