Natural Burial at Arnos Vale
A peaceful woodland resting place in the heart of Bristol
Natural Burials at Arnos Vale
Our woodland has been carefully managed to protect its unique ecology while providing a peaceful setting for remembrance.
A natural burial offers:
- A grave within our five-acre natural woodland
- A peaceful setting surrounded by trees and wildlife
- Single-depth graves to help preserve the woodland's natural environment
- Personal ceremonies led by your chosen celebrant, minister or family members
- A lasting place for family and friends to visit throughout the seasons
Natural graves are not consecrated, although consecrated burial options are available elsewhere within Arnos Vale Cemetery if required. Biodegradable coffins or burial shrouds only, including willow, bamboo, wool or cardboard
Our Natural Burial Woodland is proudly managed by the Arnos Vale Cemetery Trust and is a member of the Association of Natural Burial Grounds.
Natural Burial fees start from £3,995.
If you would like to discuss availability or arrange a visit to the woodland, our experienced team will be happy to help.
A peaceful woodland resting place
Arnos Vale's Natural Burial Woodland offers a beautiful and environmentally conscious alternative to a traditional cemetery burial. Tucked away within a peaceful five-acre woodland beside Arnos Park, this tranquil space provides a place where nature, remembrance and wildlife exist together.
Originally planted as a Victorian orchard, the woodland has naturally evolved into a rich habitat for birds, wildflowers and native trees. Today it offers families a meaningful place to say goodbye while helping to protect and preserve the natural environment.
As Bristol's only dedicated natural burial woodland, we welcome people of all faiths, beliefs and backgrounds who are looking for a simple, personal and sustainable farewell.
Natural Ashes Internment
For families choosing cremation, we also offer natural ashes interment within the woodland.
Ashes are interred in carefully designated woodland plots, allowing loved ones to rest within this peaceful natural setting.
Ashes can be:
- Interred directly into the earth
- Placed in a fully biodegradable urn or casket
- Accompanied by a simple personal ceremony
Our ashes interment area sits on the woodland slopes above the burial area. Some locations have steeper access, although ceremonies can be held in more accessible areas nearby where appropriate.
Natural ashes interment provides families with a dedicated place to visit while maintaining the woodland's natural beauty.
Woodland Glade plots start from £1600 for one set of ashes in our tranquil Natural Burial Woodland, with a wooden memorial plaque.
Pre-purchase of a woodland burial plot
We understand that some people wish to make arrangements in advance.
At present we are unable to offer the pre-purchase of natural burial or ashes interment plots. However, many local funeral directors can advise on pre-payment plans and other options.
If you are living with a life-limiting illness and would like to discuss future arrangements, please contact our team. We will do everything we can to help you understand the options available.
Funeral services & ceremonies
Arnos Vale is not only a place of rest, but also of remembrance. You can hold funeral services, receptions and wakes, all within our historic chapels or for those that prefer the outdoors,the Underwood Centre offers a natural, peaceful space for open-air ceremonies.
Visit our Natural Burial Woodland
Choosing a natural burial or ashes interment is a deeply personal decision. We welcome you to visit the woodland, experience its peaceful surroundings and speak with our team about the options available.
Whether you are arranging a funeral or looking for more information about our Natural Burial Woodland, we are here to provide guidance with care, compassion and understanding.
Thank you so much for holding my Mum’s funeral and wake. You made what was such a difficult day as easy and bearable as possible. From the moment we all arrived you made us all feel as relaxed and confident as possible. It all worked seamlessly due to your hard work. Arnos Vale is such a wonderful place of serenity in the middle of the urban sprawl. It will always feel like a special place to our family and it will be cherished
Frequently asked questions about Natural Burials
We're here to help
Our Cemetery Services team is here to guide you through every step with sensitivity and care.
