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Atlantic Rest Natural Burial

Why choose natural burial?

First of all – what is it?

The term ‘natural burial’, ‘green burial’ and ‘woodland burial’ all mean the same thing. It all began in 1993 when pioneer Ken West created the first natural burial site in the UK - in Carlisle. Today there are over 300 sites across the country.

The exact description for the term natural burial below, has been taken from the Ministry of Justice guidance paper for Natural Burial Ground Operators:

"Natural burial is a term used to describe the burial of human remains where the burial area creates habitat for wildlife or preserves existing habitats (woodland, species rich meadows, orchards, etc), sustainably managed farmland, in-situ or adjacent aquatic habitats or improves and creates new habitats which are rich in wildlife (flora and fauna). Where a funeral precedes such burial, it would typically seek to minimise environmental impact."

That really does sum it up. Natural burial is open to people from all walks of life, whether you have particular beliefs or not.

For us natural burial means going back to nature with kindness and consideration to people and the natural environment.

What does it mean to you?

If you are visiting our website because you are due to attend a burial with us - please read the following.

Thank you for reading, we understand that this may be a difficult time for you but please read to the end as it will benefit your overall experience on the day.

There will be two temporary signs out in Woolley, the first is a floor sign that indicates you need to turn left, this is a black and orange sign. You will then reach our banner that will be at the end of the lane.

Parking is limited at Atlantic Rest. If you know that there is likely to be a high number of people attending the burial - please arrange to car share. This doesn’t need to mean from your start point; but can be done from very near your destination. There is a very large lay-by just after you turn off of the main A39 into Woolley. Please park there if necessary, and ride down to the site with others.

Please do not in any circumstances drive into Woolley and leave your vehicle on the green (where the first sign is) or on any verges nearby - we have a good relationship with the locals, that we need to maintain.

When you get to the end of the lane, please stop and wind your window down to receive instructions of how and where to park your vehicle. We manage the parking as best we can but it does require your cooperation. We ask people to reverse park where possible, so that you can all easily filter out when it is time to leave.

We do have overflow car parking but it is limited.

When parked and congregating with others, please be mindful of other vehicles manoeuvring.

There is a gravel path through the main part of Penlow but you will likely need to walk on the grass too. Please note that high heels will sink.

If you require assistance with mobility - we do have a scooter that we can use for you. You will only need to sit on it and we will operate the scooter. Please call in advance if this is required - 07775 726 907.

Thank you for bearing with, and reading this till the end.

To close this message and continue to our website in full - please use the white cross at the top right of this message. Thank you.

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