Wood Trust – Ash Scattering Policy
The Woodland Trust is a Charity that aims to enable the creation of more native woods and places rich in trees; protect native woods, trees and their wildlife for the future and inspire everyone to enjoy and value woods and trees. They have a significant estate across the country.
The trust have a number of vulnerable sites and tree which are very sensitive to any imbalance in chemicals within the soil, as a consequence they are nervous about blanket positions. Over the years their position has shift to where it is a cautious thumbs up with provisos
Basically they want you to check in first to see whether it is okay.
In essence this is what say:
We understand why people wish to scatter ashes in our beautiful woodland. Our woods are wonderful natural places for wildlife and people to enjoy.
It is important to protect our precious and vulnerable woodlands. As the UK’s largest woodland conservation organisation, our priority is to protect and enhance woodland habitats, many of which are delicate ecosystems home to rare and vulnerable species.
Scattering in the Right Place
Ashes can change the soil chemistry and upset its delicate balance. Therefore, we respectfully ask that ashes are not scattered in ancient woodlands or near ancient trees, which are particularly sensitive and already under threat. We have many lovely woodland sites that are not ancient and less sensitive, where ashes can be scattered carefully.
Please contact us beforehand so we can help you find the right woodland for your needs.
Get in Touch
- Phone: 0330 333 3300
- Email: legacytrees@woodlandtrust.org.uk
- Post: Scattering Ashes, Woodland Trust, Kempton Way, Grantham, Lincs NG31 6LL
Including the region or name of the wood you are considering in your correspondence would be very helpful. This allows us to consult with local colleagues who know our woods best and provide recommendations within two weeks.
How to Scatter Ashes in Our Woods
To ensure that your chosen woodland continues to thrive naturally, we ask that you follow these guidelines:
- Scatter ashes thinly over a wide area away from main pathways.
- Do not mark the ground with flowers, crosses, or large stones.
- Do not plant bulbs, flowers, or trees.
- Choose a quiet moment when fewer people are likely to be around.
Thank you Richard, would you know how to find out who the landowners are?
Dear John
It says it is private ownership, so the two options are https://www.gov.uk/topic/land-registration/searches-fees-forms or write to them the old fashioned way!
Thanks
Richard
Hi. My father has requested that his ashes be scattered in the Bluebell woods in Benson, Atherstone, on Warwickshire. Are these woods privately owned and how do I find out who owns them, to seek permission.
Many thanks.
Hi Tina
First stop the land charges registry https://www.gov.uk/search-local-land-charges – this should tell you the owners.
Kind regards
Richard
My wife has recently passed away and one of her wishes was to have her ashes scattered in Serlby, Doncaster. Who do I need to contact for permission?
Hi John
Yes you would need to check with the landowners
Hi where I’m Blackpool can I scatter my mothers ashes she would like to be in woodlands
Dear Tracey
These are your two best links:
https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/support-us/give/in-memory/ashes-scattering/
http://www.naturaldeath.org.uk/index.php?page=find-a-natural-burial-site
Where in the south of England can my ashes be scattered in a woodland setting?
I am afraid we don’t have a complete list of all woodland as there are far too many. The best thing is to work out where you want the ashes to be then approach the land owner, or look on the Woodland Trust site, the Natural Trust site, or the Natural Death Centre site.
What sites do you have In Derbyshire where ashes can be scattered?
Dear Sue
You would need to check with the woodland trust directly – https://scattering-ashes.co.uk/places/dedication-woodland-trust/
I hope this helps
Kind regards
Richard