Yealmpton Woodland Burial Association, a registered charity since 2023, is dedicated to providing a tranquil natural burial ground amidst the beautiful South Hams area of Devon. With breathtaking views of Dartmoor and the Yealm estuary, this site has been cultivated to enhance the local ecology and promote biodiversity since its inception in 2003. Originally part of an arable farm dating back to Saxon times, the 10-acre woodland has transformed into a vibrant habitat supporting a rich variety of native flora and fauna, evidenced by the impressive wildlife, including numerous bird species and endangered plants.
The commitment to the environment is reflected in the burial practices at Yealmpton, which prioritize eco-friendliness over traditional methods. Members of the association can secure their burial plots and even reserve adjacent plots for family members, offering peace of mind. Celebrating life and nature, they encourage personalized funeral arrangements, allowing families to choose meaningful ceremonies without time constraints. Whether it be a simple interment or a formal ceremony, the site offers flexibility, ensuring families are free to commemorate their loved ones in their unique way.
Yealmpton Woodland Burial stands out as a forward-thinking option for those seeking natural burial practices that align with their values about preserving the environment. With membership, individuals can pre-pay for their burial expenses as part of a holistic funeral plan, relieving families of future financial burdens. This practice is touted as not only more cost-effective compared to conventional burial or cremation options but also as a way to support the ongoing preservation of the natural landscape.
The site also accommodates interment or scattering of ashes. Cremated remains can be honored in designated areas under the canopies of native trees, with options for memorial plaques, thereby blending remembrance with nature.
Those wishing to visit the burial ground are welcome at any time, promoting an ongoing connection with nature and the community. The association emphasizes a strong ethos of maintaining the woodland character of the burial ground, ensuring all practices hold true to sustainable principles by allowing only biodegradable materials for coffins and urns, while discouraging the use of harmful substances.
As the site continues to grow and mature, the vision for Yealmpton Woodland Burial extends far into the future. The goal is to hand the trust of the land over to a conservation body, ensuring that this serene resting place continues to flourish and remain a fitting memorial for generations yet to come. In a time where many traditional burial services are constrained by space and ecological considerations, Yealmpton Woodland Burial Association stands proudly as a sanctuary representing life, memory, and nature.
