For many families, the longer and warmer days of summer can feel like the right time to take this step. If you are considering scattering ashes outside, here is what you need to know before you do.
Is It Legal to Scatter Ashes Outdoors in the UK?
Across England and Wales, there are no specific laws preventing ashes from being scattered outdoors, although there are important considerations to keep in mind. To scatter ashes on private land, you must obtain permission from the landowner. For public land, rivers, and the sea, guidelines are in place to protect the environment. The Environment Agency advises that ashes scattered into rivers or the sea should be done in a way that causes minimal environmental impact, and recommends doing so away from the shoreline and bathing areas.
For land managed by organisations such as the National Trust or local councils, it is always worth contacting them directly beforehand, as many have their own guidance in place.
We have written a more detailed guide to all the options for what to do with ashes, including the legal considerations around scattering, which you may find helpful to read alongside this.
Choosing a Meaningful Location
The most important thing is that the location feels right for you and your family, and that it reflects the person who has passed. Some people choose a beautiful viewpoint, a favourite walk, or an open space that is quiet and remote. Others choose something that speaks to a passion or interest their loved one held dear, a stretch of coastline, a sports ground, a garden, or a woodland they returned to again and again.
Summer is often the best time to do this. The longer, warmer days give families the space and time to gather without feeling restricted by weather or fading light. There is no right or wrong way to mark the occasion, as long as it feels fitting for those present.
A Few Practical Things to Consider
It is worth checking the weather before you set off, as wind direction can make scattering more difficult than expected. Some families choose to say a few words or take a moment of quiet, while others prefer to keep things simple and private — both are completely fine.
You may also wish to keep a small portion of the ashes if other family members would like to be present at a separate occasion, or if you are considering a memorial keepsake.
We Are Here to Help
We understand that every family’s journey is different, and the decisions you make after a cremation are deeply personal. Whether you are just beginning to think about what to do with your loved one’s ashes or you have questions about any aspect of the process, our team is always here to talk things through with you. Please do not hesitate to get in touch on 0121 427 2233. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
