Burials and Interments in Our Churchyard
A gentle guide for families
When someone we love dies, there are so many decisions to make at a time when our hearts are already full. As your parish church, we want to walk with you through this, offering clarity, kindness and support.
Churchyards are cared for under Church of England law, which means there are some things we must follow. These guidelines help us keep the churchyard a peaceful, dignified place for everyone who visits.

Who Can Be Buried Here

If the churchyard is open, the following people have a right to be buried here:
Anyone who lives in the parish
Anyone who is on the church’s electoral roll
Anyone who dies within the parish

The vicar can also permit others to be buried, usually after talking with the Parochial Church Council. If you’re unsure, please speak to us — we’re here to help.

Cremated Remains
The same rights apply to the interment of ashes as to full burials.
If the churchyard is closed, ashes can only be interred in an area that has been specially authorised.

Churchyard Regulations

We know that every family wants to honour their loved one in a meaningful way. At the same time, the churchyard is a shared place of remembrance, and so we follow diocesan regulations to keep it safe, beautiful and consistent.

A few important things to know:

Interment is final. Exhumation is only allowed in very exceptional circumstances.

Memorials need permission. There isn’t an automatic right to a headstone or plaque.

Memorials must follow diocesan guidelines for size, material, design and wording, unless special permission is given.

Some additional items (such as photographs, toys, windmills or ornaments) may not be permitted, depending on diocesan rules.

If you’re thinking about a memorial or have questions about what is allowed, please speak with us early on. We will guide you through the process with care.

We’re Here for You

Grief is heavy enough without having to navigate rules on your own. If you’re planning a burial or the interment of ashes, or if you simply want to talk things through, please get in touch. We will do everything we can to support you with compassion and clarity.