What to Do with Ashes in Surrey

Find woodland burial, Thames ashes scattering cruises and memorial portraits in Surrey, from Guildford to Chertsey and Sunbury.

Surrey is one of England's most wooded counties, with the Surrey Hills, heathland commons and the River Thames along its northern edge. Families here often choose a woodland burial or a quiet farewell on the river, and there are local options for both.

Woodland burial in Surrey

Woodland Burials at Shamley Green, near Guildford, offers full burial and ashes interment in permanent graves that will never be re-used. Each grave is marked with a hardwood plaque, replaced when it wears, and a native broadleaf tree is planted. See all eco memorials and woodland burial in Surrey.

Scattering ashes on the Thames

Shamrock Escapes runs private ashes scattering cruises on the River Thames from Chertsey, including trips through Central London, with the crew taking care of the journey so the family can focus on the day. See all ashes scattering in Surrey.

Memorial portraits

Ceaseless Portraits is Jessica, a solo artist in Sunbury-on-Thames who hand-draws portraits from a photograph with a small amount of ashes infused into the artwork, working entirely by post. See all memorial art in Surrey.

Can I scatter ashes in the Thames?

Yes. Scattering on rivers is generally allowed without a licence. A private cruise is the easiest way, especially in Central London.

Is there a woodland burial ground near Guildford?

Yes. Woodland Burials at Shamley Green is just south east of Guildford.

Can I scatter ashes in the Surrey Hills?

Usually yes, but you need permission from whoever owns the land. Much of the Surrey Hills is National Trust land, common land or private estate. Read our guide to where you can't scatter ashes in the UK for more.

Woodland Burials Shamley Green

Shamrock escapes – Private Thames Ashes Scattering Cruises

Ceaseless Portraits

Woodland burial in Surrey

Scattering ashes on the Thames

Memorial portraits