Direct Burial: A Simple, Natural Farewell

A direct burial is a simple, natural, and environmentally friendly alternative to cremation or a traditional funeral.

It offers a quiet, dignified farewell, without a service at the graveside, allowing nature to take its course in a peaceful setting.

Can I Have a Direct Burial?

Direct burial is available for anyone who wishes for a no-fuss, natural farewell. Whether you’re planning ahead for yourself or arranging for a loved one, a direct burial offers a simple return to the earth, free from unnecessary costs and environmental impact.

How to Arrange a Direct Burial

1. Choose a Burial Ground – The first step is to decide where the burial will take place. Our natural burial grounds are set within meadows, woodlands, and unspoiled landscapes, where the land is protected, and nature is left to thrive.

Take a look at our natural burial locations here.

2. Appoint a Funeral Director – A funeral director will take care of the arrangements, including:

– Collecting and caring for the deceased.
– Providing a biodegradable coffin (such as a simple cardboard, willow, or pine coffin).
– Completing the necessary paperwork, including obtaining the Green Form from the registrar.
– Transporting the coffin to the burial ground on the day of the burial.

Most funeral directors should be familiar with arranging a direct burial, but if you need guidance, we’re happy to help.

3. Book the Burial – The funeral director will liaise with us to arrange a date and time for the burial. Since a direct burial is unattended, there is no formal ceremony or gathering at the graveside.

Once confirmed, our gravedigger will prepare the grave in a dedicated area of the burial ground.

4. Receive Burial Details – After the burial, we will send a certificate of burial and the What3Words location of the grave. This means that, although the burial takes place quietly, loved ones can visit the site in their own time, finding peace and connection in nature.

Why Choose a Direct Burial Over Direct Cremation?

Kinder to the Planet – Unlike cremation, which releases carbon emissions and requires high energy use, direct burial allows a natural return to the earth with no environmental harm.

A Lasting Legacy – Instead of ashes, a burial plot becomes part of a thriving natural landscape, supporting biodiversity and preserving green space for future generations.

Peaceful & Personal – A direct burial takes place in a beautiful, natural setting, offering a quiet place for loved ones to visit and reflect, something cremation does not provide.

Simple Yet Meaningful – Like direct cremation, direct burial is an unattended service, but instead of industrial surroundings, the resting place is among trees, meadows, and wildlife.

Planning Ahead for Peace of Mind

If you would like to pre-purchase a burial plot or make arrangements in advance, this can be done at any time. Many people find comfort in knowing that their final wishes are in place, easing the burden on loved ones in the future.

For more information about direct burial, or to discuss your options, please get in touch, we’re here to help.