Direct Natural Burial

In recent years there has been an increase in direct unattended cremations, initially due to high profile funerals such as that of David Bowie. More recently the covid crisis has necessitated this option for many in society. The advantages of such a service are clear, the cost is much below that of a traditional funeral and greater emphasis can be placed on what may be more appropriate ways to remember and celebrate a life.

However, it is not well known that direct natural burial is also available. This allows the cost and simplicity advantages of direct cremation whilst also ensuring the greatest possible care for nature and the environment. Family and friends also have a beautiful area of peace and tranquillity to visit to remember loved one.

So, what is a direct natural burial? The burial is conducted with the usual care and respect at one of our natural burial grounds, but without a service and with no officiant or mourners present. The Natural Burial Company would select the grave plot, and this would remain unmarked. The family would be aware of the burial ground but would not be informed of the exact location of the plot. However, a plaque may be purchased and be placed in our Memorial Area at the natural burial ground. The grave plot may also be purchased later*.

As the service is simplified and the grave is not identified the cost is significantly less than for a standard burial plot. This allows for funds to be available for a celebration, memorial service** or other activity in remembrance.

The Direct Natural Burial is a complete funeral service:

• All arrangements and administration, via telephone, email and/or video meeting.
• Removal of the person who has died within office hours from a hospital within 20 miles of any of our burial grounds (additional mileage charges may apply if the person died outside of this area and/or at a private address – an estimate of costs will always be provided).
• Care of the person who has died in hygienic conditions until the day of the burial.
• A simple Jute Coffin.
• Transport of the coffin to the Natural Burial Ground.
• An Interment at the Natural Burial Ground in a plot selected by The Natural Burial Company. The rights to the plot (including to add memorials) remain with The Natural Burial Company* • Interment and Administration fees.
• • The planting of a Tree on the grave.
• • A Certificate with details of the Natural Burial Ground and the Tree planted.

The cost of the Direct Natural Burial is £1,800

*You can purchase the plot later if you wish to know the exact location of the grave, place a Slate marker on the Grave, or use the plot for Interments of Cremated Remains.

**A Memorial Service or Celebration of Life can be arranged at the natural burial ground at a later date.

January 2026