Woodland Burials Explained

Woodland Burials Explained: Woodland burials are becoming an increasingly meaningful choice for people who want a gentle, natural, and environmentally friendly way to be laid to rest. Set within forests, newly planted woodlands, or areas being restored for wildlife, a woodland burial offers a simple return to nature that feels peaceful and connected to the land.

For many families, the appeal lies in letting nature lead the way. Instead of rows of headstones, woodland burial sites are shaped by trees, wildflowers, birdsong, and the wider ecosystem. The landscape grows and evolves, becoming a living memorial.

Woodland Burials Explained. A woodland burial is an environmentally friendly burial that takes place within a woodland setting, often part of a conservation or rewilding project. Instead of traditional cemetery infrastructure, the burial site is integrated naturally into the landscape.

Key features include:

• Burial in a woodland area—existing or newly planted.

• Use of biodegradable coffins or shrouds such as wicker, willow, cardboard, wool, or bamboo.

• Minimal disturbance to the land.

• Natural memorials rather than headstones (often a tree or simple marker).

• A focus on nature, tranquillity, and sustainable land stewardship.

Woodland burials are one form of natural burial, but the woodland setting gives them a distinct focus on trees, habitat creation, and long-term ecological restoration.

People choose woodland burial for a range of gentle, meaningful reasons:

Environmental Benefits

Woodland burial grounds promote biodiversity, support soil health, and often contribute to long-term conservation goals. Families appreciate that the burial becomes part of a living ecosystem.

A Peaceful, Natural Setting

Instead of a formal cemetery, the setting is a woodland: birdsong, flowers, rustling leaves. Many people find this deeply comforting and reflective.

A Simple, Eco-Friendly Approach

No embalming chemicals, no concrete chambers, and no non-biodegradable materials. The focus is on natural decomposition and minimal impact.

A Living Memorial

Planting trees or allowing woodland to regenerate creates a memorial that grows over time—honouring the person while nurturing the environment for future generations.

While each burial ground has its own approach, the overall process is gentle and straightforward.

1. Choosing a Site

Families select a woodland burial ground that suits their wishes. Some sites are mature forests; others are new woodlands planted specifically for conservation. Our directory of Natural Burial Grounds near Me can help  find a site near you.

2. Biodegradable Coffin or Shroud

Woodland sites require eco-friendly materials such as:

• wicker or willow

• bamboo or rattan

• wool coffins

• cardboard coffins

• natural fibre shrouds

For more detail, see your Eco-Friendly Coffins & Shrouds Guide pillar page.

3. Preparation and Burial

Burials are dug carefully to protect tree roots and soil structure. The burial is completed naturally, without concrete vaults or formal memorials.

4. Natural Memorial Markers

Instead of a stone headstone, families may choose:

• a tree planting

• a wooden marker

• a small plaque (if permitted)

• GPS coordinates for locating the plot

5. Ongoing Care of the Woodland

The burial ground’s long-term management plan prioritises:

• habitat protection

• responsible woodland management

• maintaining footpaths and public access

• monitoring biodiversity

Although all woodland burials are natural burials, not all natural burials take place in woodland.

Woodland burials specifically occur in forested or afforestation areas and focus on tree-based memorials and woodland ecology. Natural burials may instead be set within meadows, pastures, or conservation grounds of varied habitat types.

Costs vary between burial grounds but may include:

• Plot purchase

• Interment fee

• Optional tree planting

• Eco-coffin or shroud

• Ceremony services

Woodland burial is often similar in price to natural burial and can be more affordable than a traditional cemetery burial, depending on location.

When selecting a burial ground, families may wish to consider:

• The type of woodland (mature, young, regenerating)

• Long-term land management plans

• Accessibility for future visits

• Rules for memorials

• Environmental commitments

• Availability of plots

• Distance from home

Woodland burials follow UK burial law, which does not prohibit natural or woodland burials provided they meet general requirements around:

• accurate record-keeping

• suitable land use

• environmental and water safety

• planning considerations (depending on the site)

Relevant legal sources include:

• Natural Burial Ground Guidance (Ministry of Justice)

• Burial Act 1857 (for rules concerning burials and exhumation)

Each site handles compliance, but families may be signposted to official resources for reassurance.

Many woodland burial grounds allow:

• planting a native tree (oak, birch, hazel, rowan, etc.)

• small discreet wooden markers

• simple plaques

• GPS-based memorials

Native species are chosen to support woodland ecology. Not all sites permit individual tree planting—some manage tree planting seasonally or collectively for ecological balance.

Families can often visit year-round, although paths may be natural rather than paved. Expect:

• changing seasonal landscapes

• birds, insects, and wildlife

• peaceful walking routes

• minimal signage to maintain the natural feel

Many people find these visits grounding and comforting.

Woodland burials explained. Woodland burials offer a peaceful, environmentally conscious alternative that many people find comforting and meaningful. They allow individuals to rest in a setting shaped by trees, wildlife, and the natural cycles of the land. Whether chosen for ecological reasons, personal values, or the desire for a gentle and natural farewell, woodland burials bring together simplicity and nature in a beautiful way.

For those considering this option, exploring different sites and learning about their landscapes, ecological commitments, and long-term plans can help you find a place that feels right.

Search our Directory ➜ Natural Burial Grounds Near Me
Find peaceful, eco-friendly burial grounds near you.