Looking for a more natural, eco-conscious alternative to conventional cemeteries or crematorium memorial gardens?

orset Downs Natural Burial Ground offers a tranquil, environmentally friendly resting place in the heart of the Dorset countryside.

Nestled high on the chalkland downs—Dorset’s iconic landscape, this beautiful burial ground provides the opportunity for a meaningful farewell in harmony with nature. Surrounded by open fields and wildflowers, it’s a place of peace, reflection, and timeless natural beauty.

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Why choose Dorset Downs natural burial ground?

Wildflowers at Dorset Downs Natural Burial Ground

Environmentally Friendly

Our natural burial ground in Dorset prioritises sustainability. We only allow biodegradable coffins or shrouds, and we avoid traditional headstones to preserve the natural landscape.

Breathtaking Scenery

Set in a stunning location on the Dorset Downs, this burial site offers sweeping views, wildflower meadows, and a sense of calm that honours both memory and the environment.

Newly planted oak tree memorial at Dorset Downs natural burial ground

Memorial Options

Instead of headstones, you can plant a native tree, or an engraved wooden or slate plaque, creating a lasting, living tribute.

Contact us for more information

Whether you're arranging a funeral now or planning for the future, we are happy to help you with any enquiries.

What is a natural burial?

A natural burial, also known as a green burial, is a gentle and environmentally conscious way to return to the earth. It avoids the use of embalming, concrete vaults, metal coffins or imported stone. Instead, everything used, from coffins to flowers, is biodegradable, supporting the natural cycle of life.

Key features of natural burial at Dorset Downs:

No embalming or toxic chemicals

Biodegradable coffins, shrouds or caskets

No plastic linings, wrappings or foam

Hand-tied flowers with natural materials

Digital grave location mapping via What3Words

A landscape preserved, not transformed

Ecological coffin made from reclaimed wooden pallets.Biodegradable acorn urn

Types of burial available

We offer two natural burial options at Dorset Downs:

  • Full body burials using biodegradable coffins or shrouds

  • Ashes burials, with the option to bury multiple sets or alongside a full burial

You may choose plots side by side for loved ones, allowing you to rest together in a shared, natural space.

How it works

Choose Your Area

Select an area in the meadow that feels right to you and your family.

Personal Touch

Create a farewell that reflects your wishes, from the ceremony to the memorial.

Flexible Payment Options

Pay in full or choose an instalment plan over 10 or 20 months (when you pre-purchase). View our prices here.

Download an information pack

Whether you're arranging a funeral now or planning for the future, we have put together information packs for you to download.

Cute little lambs at the Compton Valence farm, next to Dorset Downs natural burial ground

Arrange a visit with us

We would love you to come and explore the serene beauty of Dorset Downs Natural Burial Ground and discover a gentler natural alternative. You can visit the burial ground any time if you would like to explore alone or contact us to arrange a visit or to learn more about natural burial. Either email us or call us on 01305 564075.

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Where is Dorset Downs natural burial ground?

The burial ground is located a few miles west of Dorchester, off the A35 towards Compton Valence. If you are visiting the burial ground, please use the Google Maps location for Dorset Downs, rather than the postcode (which will not take you to the entrance).

Want to find out more?

If you'd like to find out more about the Dorset Downs natural burial ground, we have plenty more information for you to continue reading...

Rolling hills with sheep grazing them, which the Dorset Downs natural burial ground overlooks

Prices

A full price list is available on our forms and prices page We offer full burial and ashes interments. All of our application forms are available online or via pdf download.

Wildflowers at Dorset Downs Natural Burial Ground

About

The burial ground was set up by the Russell family in tandem with Leedam. Read more about the farm and the custodians who care for it.

Memorials

Unlike a conventional cemetery, there will be no rows of memorial stones, vases of flowers or mementos. Instead, you can dedicate a tree or an oak memorial plaque in memory of someone.

How can we help?