Memorial Suggestions

A personal way to say goodbye, in your own time and your own way.

To lose a loved family member can feel so overwhelming. A direct cremation means that families may wish to plan a later celebration of life at a time that suits them. The difference is that you have time and space to think about what will best reflect your family member’s life.

Should you need help planning a memorial, with our profound knowledge of the local Thames or London area, we are on hand to help advise. We are also the creators of the Pembroke Lodge funeral in Richmond Park.

Call Us: 020 3281 1045

Call Us: 020 3281 1045

Memorial Plan

Why Plan a Memorial?

A memorial can be modern, traditional, intimate or celebratory — there is no single “right” way to say goodbye. Planning one after a direct cremation allows you to create a meaningful tribute that reflects your loved one’s life.

Benefits of planning a memorial:

Flexibility

Choose the timing and setting that feels right

Personalisation

Readings, photos, music and stories

Cost Control

No pressure of organising immediately

Less Stress

Time to reflect before arranging a farewell

Locations for Scattering

Suggested Locations for Scattering Ashes

Always check permissions and landowner consent beforehand — we can advise if needed.

Thames & London Area Suggestions:

1 On the River Thames (read this blog)
2 Kew Gardens (permission required)
3 At a Crematorium (by arrangement)
4 At a Natural Burial Ground (see list)
5 At a Cemetery (columbarium or grave)
6 At a favourite nature spot (subject to landowner permission / restrictions)
7 Certain sports clubs & venues (by arrangement)
8 On private land (subject to landowner permission)
9 In the sea
10 Drone release (see Aerial Ashes)

Popular requests are the Royal Parks such as Richmond Park or Bushy Park - however ashes contain minerals in such concentrations that they affect the soil and the plants that grow in the soil. This in turn can affect the wildlife that relies on the plants for food and shelter. For this reason, special permission from a Park Manager is required.

Permission

Permission & Regulations for Scattering Ashes

Scattering ashes is usually allowed in many public places — but permission must always be obtained first. Different councils and landowners have different rules. General guidance:

Private Land

Written permission from the landowner is essential

Royal Parks

(e.g. Richmond & Bushy Park) – Approval must be requested in advance

Local Parks / Commons

Contact your local borough council

Thames River

Consent may be required from the Environment Agency and local council

Churchyards / Cemeteries

Usually require formal approval or a fee

National Trust Spaces

Must go through the local estate office

Local Councils That May Cover Thames-Area Locations:

Richmond upon Thames Council
Kingston upon Thames Council
Hounslow Council
Wandsworth Council
Elmbridge Borough Council
Spelthorne Borough Council

📍 Find your local council via: gov.uk/find-local-council

Environmental Considerations

When scattering ashes outdoors, it is important to respect the surroundings:

Avoid scattering in busy picnic or play areas
Choose biodegradable containers where possible
Avoid scattering in high winds
Scatter gradually, rather than in one place

A quiet spot at sunrise or sunset can often provide a peaceful moment of reflection with close family.

Creative Ways to Honour a Loved One

Beyond scattering ashes, a memorial can include:

Memory Box

Letters, photos and keepsakes

Memorial Tree or Garden

A living tribute

Commemorative Jewellery

Ashes made into keepsakes

Memorial Bench

With a plaque or dedication

Celebration of Life Event

With readings, photos and music

Charity Donation

Support a cause meaningful to them

We can advise on suppliers and local options if needed.

How to Arrange a Memorial – Step by Step

Step 1.

Choose the Type of Memorial

Private family gathering
Celebration of life event
Ashes scattering ceremony
Tree planting or lasting tribute

Step 2

Select a Location

Home or private garden
Woodland or riverside area
Local hall, church or venue
Cemetery or memorial garden

Step 3

Plan the Format

Readings or poems
Music or tribute playlist
Sharing stories or photographs
Quiet reflection and candle lighting

Step 4

Add Personal Touches

Memory table or slideshow
Flowers or natural decorations
Printed order of service
Keepsake gifts or mementos

Step 5

Confirm and Communicate

Let family and friends know the expected time, place and tone of the memorial.

Step 6

On the Day

Allow space for reflection, storytelling or calm quiet moments. A memorial does not need formality — only meaning.

Step 7

After the Memorial

Keep any letters, photos or tributes
Consider planting a memorial tree
Take time to grieve, reflect and restore

Our Commitment to You

Thames Direct Cremation, provided by White Rose Modern Funerals, offers gentle guidance and local support.
We believe every family should have the freedom to say goodbye their way — with dignity, care and personal choice.

Whether you need help finding a memorial location, arranging permissions, or simply wish to talk through ideas, we are here to support you at every step.