Natural burial grounds have moved from the fringe to the mainstream. As we settle into 2026, we are witnessing a fundamental shift in how we approach death - moving away from the "production line" funerals of the past toward bespoke, environmentally conscious celebrations of life.
In this updated guide, we explore the explosive growth of natural burial in the UK, the arrival of new technologies like water cremation, and why families (and landowners) are embracing this green revolution.
From Victorian Grandeur to Modern Simplicity
The history of burial grounds in the UK is long and fascinating. Until the mid-19th century most people were buried in a churchyard. However, problems with overcrowding in London's urban cemeteries forced the government to take action.
These overcrowded burial grounds were not only unsanitary and the source of much disease, but also lacked the dignity that Victorian families wished to provide for their loved ones.
Local authorities commissioned the best architects to create large, park-like cemeteries outside the city, such as Highgate Cemetery and Kensal Green Cemetery in London, which opened in 1839 and 1832, respectively. These were the first of the so-called ‘magnificent seven’ cemeteries established on the outskirts of London, which later served as the inspiration for the establishment of similar cemeteries across the UK.
The new cemeteries were impressive and ostentatious, often landscaped with chapels and winding paths, similar to the grand parks that had been created in London. Wealthy Victorians were able to erect impressive mausoleums and marble tombstones to honour their loved ones and mark their place in society.
Today, these cemeteries are an important part of the UK's heritage as they represent the history of the local area. However, even if plots are available in urban cemeteries, they are no longer the preferred choice of modern families or environmentally conscious individuals who favour the simplicity and beauty of natural burial grounds.
The introduction of natural burial grounds
People have been naturally buried for centuries, but the revival of the natural burial in mainstream consciousness was kick-started in 1993 by Ken West, who was head of bereavement services in the city of Carlisle.
His vision was simple yet inspiring. He wanted to convert a small area of rough grassland at the edge of a cemetery into a woodland burial ground. He wished to make oak trees and not gravestones the focal point of the natural burial ground.
Local families were given the opportunity to plant a tree to mark the burial site of their loved one instead of a headstone. The trees had to be native trees and so oaks were chosen for the site, which was dedicated to conserving the wildlife and nature in the area as well as being a beautiful place for people to come to remember their loved one.
The idea took off and natural burial sites were born. It was the biggest change in UK burial culture since the first cremation took place in 1885.
The Green Wave: Natural Burial in 2026
Since Ken West pioneered the first natural burial ground in Carlisle, there has been a transformation in funeral services. Natural burial grounds and hybrid burial grounds, which are sites run by local authorities that combine a traditional cemetery and an area dedicated to conserving nature, have been springing up across the UK.
Key Trends & Statistics for 2026
- Rapid Growth: There are now over 300 natural burial sites across the UK.
- Gen Z Influence: Recent surveys suggest that younger generations (Gen Z and Millennials) are driving the shift away from flame cremation due to carbon emission concerns, sparking a revival in "earth-friendly" burial.
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New Technologies: 2026 marks a historic turning point with the introduction of the Hydrolysis (Scotland) Regulations, paving the way for water cremation (aquamation) to operate legally in the UK. Meanwhile, the Law Commission continues to review "human composting" (natural organic reduction) as it gains traction globally.
Delyse Jackaman - Manager of Old Park Meadow Natural Burial Ground, Chelmsford
'There are such a variety of natural burial grounds in the UK today enabling families to say goodbye their own way. They are open to everyone, from anywhere, for all faiths, beliefs or none at all. Services, burials, ash interments and wakes are all possible with time, compassion and nature being at the forefront of everything we do. Within the Association of Natural Burial Grounds, members have over a quarter of a million burial spaces available. Bearing in mind natural burial is kinder to the environment, it would be a positive step if more people considered this choice.'
Why Families Are Choosing Natural Burial Now
The decision to go green is often driven by three key factors: Cost, Environment, and Legacy.
1. The Cost Factor (2026 Update)
According to the SunLife Cost of Dying Report 2026, the price gap between traditional and simple funerals continues to widen.
- Traditional Burial: Average cost is approx. £5,440 (excluding plot fees which can add thousands in urban areas).
- Simple/Natural Burial: Often ranges between £1,000 - £4,000 depending on the location and plot exclusivity.
- Direct Options: Direct burial (without a service) averages £1,527, offering a dignified, low-cost alternative.
By choosing a willow coffin or a simple shroud, families avoid the markup of expensive polished wood veneers and metal handles that are mandatory in some traditional cemeteries.
2. Environmental Impact
A single flame cremation releases roughly 160-190kg of CO2. In contrast, a natural burial locks carbon into the soil. With the UK's net-zero targets in focus, a natural burial is a final act of conservation.
3. Creating a Living Legacy
Instead of a cold stone slab, families are choosing to plant memorial trees. In 2026, many natural burial grounds operate as full-fledged nature reserves, protecting habitats for bees, birds, and wildflowers.
For Landowners & Partners: The Future of Burial Grounds
Are you a landowner, farmer, or existing cemetery manager looking to diversify?
The demand for natural burial space in the UK is outstripping supply. Creating a natural burial ground is not just a business opportunity; it is a way to preserve land in perpetuity.
Why Partner with the Green Burial Movement?
- Sustainable Revenue: Unlike farming, which can be volatile, burial plots offer a steady income stream while re-wilding your land.
- Low Impact: Natural burial grounds require minimal infrastructure compared to traditional cemeteries - no concrete, no tarmac, just nature.
- Community Connection: These sites become cherished community assets, used for walking and reflection, not just funerals.
Partner with Think Willow We work closely with burial grounds to provide families with 100% biodegradable, plastic-free coffins that meet strict association standards.
- Opportunities: We are actively seeking natural burial partners to feature in our 2026 UK Directory.
- Compliance: Our Bamboo and Willow ranges are fully approved for natural burial usage.
Finding a Natural Burial Ground Near You
The Natural Death Centre remains the premier resource for finding a site. However, as independent sites grow, we recommend visiting potential grounds in person.
The NDC keeps a register of its members' sites. It is not a complete list of all burial grounds, as there is no obligation for natural burial ground owners to register with them.
What to look for:
- The Feel: Is it a forest, a meadow, or a park? (e.g., Atlantic Rest in Cornwall offers a stunning coastal meadow view)
- The Rules: Check their policy on memorial markers. Most allow wooden plaques or GPS tags rather than stone.
- The Lease: Does the plot have a 99-year lease, or is it in perpetuity?
Maybe a friend has a natural burial; you go along not knowing what to expect, with it being a new experience.
I think that more often than not, attendees go away from a natural burial feeling that although the experience of loosing their friend and burying them was sad - it was actually a positive experience overall. There was no rushing or limit because another funeral is waiting to start. Natural burial can be quite a calming and uplifting experience; if you allow yourself to absorb the surroundings, while you are saying your final farewell.
It’s not surprising that people leave questioning their own initial choices, and decide that they too would like to leave a positive memorial.'
Sheridon Rosser - Manager at Atlantic Rest Natural Burial Ground, Cornwall
'I believe that the increase in popularity is a growing thing because the world around us is changing. Climate Change is finally a ‘hot topic’ and not something that no one really believes in, or thinks if they ignore it - it might go away. Our human race is wanting to do what they can for our planet, both in life and in death. As time goes on, people in my mind are increasing the popularity by word of mouth.
Maybe a friend has a natural burial; you go along not knowing what to expect, with it being a new experience.
I think that more often than not, attendees go away from a natural burial feeling that although the experience of loosing their friend and burying them was sad - it was actually a positive experience overall. There was no rushing or limit because another funeral is waiting to start. Natural burial can be quite a calming and uplifting experience; if you allow yourself to absorb the surroundings, while you are saying your final farewell.
It’s not surprising that people leave questioning their own initial choices, and decide that they too would like to leave a positive memorial.'
Conclusion
As more people turn away from tradition, they are finding peace in natural burial grounds. These green spaces offer a unique way to connect with loved ones, from woodland plantings to wildflower meadows.
Share your journey with us below. Your thoughts or experiences are appreciated.
