What is a Natural Burial?

In recent years, natural burials have become an increasingly popular choice for those seeking a meaningful and environmentally friendly farewell. Rooted in simplicity, sustainability and reverence for nature, a natural burial allows for a gentle return to the earth. In this blog, we’ll explore what natural burial entails, the beauty of such settings, and how you can create a deeply personal and memorable ceremony, focusing on options near Kent in the southeast of England.

THE CONCEPT OF NATURAL BURIAL

A natural burial prioritises minimal environmental impact. Unlike traditional burials, which often involve embalming chemicals, concrete vaults, or ornate coffins, a natural burial ensures the body returns to the earth as naturally as possible. This typically involves using biodegradable materials for the coffin or shroud, and the burial site itself is often managed as a conservation area, rich with wildlife and natural beauty.

Natural burial grounds differ significantly from conventional cemeteries. These spaces are often meadows, woodlands, or wildflower fields where graves are marked with simple wooden plaques, natural stones, or even GPS coordinates instead of headstones. The emphasis is on blending seamlessly with the environment, creating a peaceful, organic space that feels alive and vibrant.

NATURAL BURIAL SITES IN KENT

​Kent is home to just a few natural burial grounds but each offers a serene and environmentally conscious alternative for final resting places. Our options locally are quite limited but here are our nearest natural burial grounds:

1. Deerton Natural Burial Ground Nestled near Faversham, Deerton Natural Burial Ground boasts sweeping views of the Kent countryside. This site offers a tranquil meadow surrounded by hedgerows and trees, creating a haven for wildlife but the site is no longer selling plots so will redirect you to their sister site: Riverview.
2. Riverview Natural Burial Ground Located near the picturesque River Medway in Kent, Riverview Natural Burial Ground is a haven of peace and natural beauty. This site offers stunning views across the countryside and is thoughtfully designed to blend into the environment. It supports local wildlife and provides a serene resting place for loved ones. 
3. Eden Valley Woodland Burial Ground Located near Edenbridge, this beautiful woodland site allows families to bury their loved ones in grassland close to 8 acres of  ancient woodland with the aim of reforesting the meadows as trees are planted next to burial plots. It’s a truly magical setting that changes with the seasons, offering solace and a deep connection to nature. 
4. Bluebell Cemetery Positioned near Sevenoaks, Bluebell offers woodland burials in a serene, carefully managed environment but it is also part of the crematorium grounds. This site combines ecological preservation with dedicated support to ensure a meaningful and personal ceremony.

Near to Kent can be found:

1. Clayton Wood Natural Burial Ground Located in the South Downs National Park, Clayton Wood  is set in 15 acres of countryside. Wehn buried here you will be part of a new English wood that will be protected from development. There are various dedicated areas for full natural burial and cremated remains, as well as memorial scattering lawns, surrounded by native trees for future generations to enjoy.
   
2. Woodland Valley Situated within the Lawn Memorial Cemetery and planted with a range of local trees and wild flowers, Woodland Valley has been designed to create a meadow and woodland burial ground for burial and cremated remains near Woodingdean, Brighton. 
   

THE ECO-CREDENTIALS OF A NATURAL BURIAL

A natural burial can significantly reduce the environmental impact of a funeral. By avoiding embalming chemicals and using biodegradable materials, the process ensures that no harmful substances leach into the soil. Furthermore, the burial grounds themselves are often maintained as conservation sites, helping to protect native flora and fauna and promote biodiversity.

By choosing a natural burial, you’re not only honouring your loved one’s memory but also contributing to the preservation of our planet for future generations.

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN PLANNING A NATURAL BURIAL

When considering a natural burial, there are several factors to bear in mind:

1. Location
   Choose a site that resonates with your family or the wishes of your loved one. Whether it’s a woodland, meadow or hillside, the location can add profound meaning to the ceremony.
2. Materials
   Biodegradable coffins, urns, or shrouds are key to maintaining the eco-friendly ethos of a natural burial. Willow, cardboard, or wool are popular choices.
3. Markers
   If you’d like to mark the grave, consider natural options such as a tree, a wildflower planting, or a discreet wooden plaque. The staff will be able to recommend options at their site.
4. Personalisation
   Natural burials allow for immense flexibility in how you say goodbye. Without the constraints of traditional services, you can design a ceremony that reflects the personality and values of your loved one.

CREATING A BEAUTIFUL NATURAL BURIAL CEREMONY

• A natural burial offers a chance to celebrate life in a way that is deeply personal and connected to the earth. Here are some ideas to make the ceremony both meaningful and beautiful:

• Seasonal Celebrations
  Embrace the season in which the burial takes place. In summer, consider hosting a post-ceremony picnic, where loved ones can gather amidst the natural beauty of the site. Share stories, laughter, and favourite foods to honour the life lived. In autumn, the golden hues of the trees can provide a breathtaking backdrop, while spring burials can be adorned with wildflowers.

• Music and Readings
  Bring in music or poetry that resonates. This could be a favourite song played acoustically, readings from nature-inspired literature, or even moments of silence to let the sounds of nature fill the space.

• Wildflower Planting
  As part of the ceremony, invite attendees to scatter wildflower seeds or plant a tree. This act can symbolise renewal and the ongoing impact of the person’s life.

• Memory Boards or Keepsakes
  Set up a memory board where attendees can leave messages or share photos. Alternatively, you could create small keepsakes, such as pressed flowers, for attendees to take home.

• Include Well Behaved Yet Much Loved Pets
  Your family dog is a member of your family. Many natural burial sites welcome pets on a lead at their site. This gorgeous dog sat by the graveside throughout the ceremony but she was on a lead which is just as well as she would have got into the grave herself if she could have!

WHY CHOOSE A NATURAL BURIAL?

​Natural burials offer a way to reconnect with the earth, celebrate the beauty of life, and leave a positive legacy for future generations. For those who loved nature or lived in harmony with the environment, this type of burial can be a fitting tribute.

In Kent, the natural beauty of the southeast provides a stunning array of options, each offering peace, dignity, and sustainability. Whether under the canopy of ancient trees or in the midst of a wildflower meadow, natural burial sites offer comfort to those left behind, surrounded by the soothing rhythms of nature.

If you’re considering a natural burial for yourself or a loved one, take time to visit potential sites and speak with the staff to understand what feels right.

A natural burial is more than a final farewell; it’s a chance to celebrate a life well-lived and to give back to the earth that sustains us all.

If you would like to contact me about how I can support you with a ceremony at a natural burial ground in Kent or further afield, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

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