Choosing a Suitable Memorial for Churchyards
Churchyard memorials hold a special place in tradition, offering a peaceful and sacred setting to honour the memory of a loved one. These memorials are often subject to specific guidelines set by the Diocese, which help preserve the historic and spiritual character of the churchyard.
From the type of stone and style of lettering to the overall design and inscription, careful consideration is needed to ensure the memorial is both meaningful and appropriate for its surroundings. Dioceses take the view that a headstone is a public statement not only about the person who has died but also impacting on the wider community, and this should always be borne in mind.
With the right guidance, a churchyard memorial can become a timeless tribute that blends beautifully into its tranquil setting.
Things to consider
Every Diocese has its own regulations. We are already familiar with those in our local areas but for a memorial further afield, we will need to obtain these requirements to ensure your chosen memorial meets them before we provide a quote for you. When we send your quote, we will also ask you to review and sign a Churchyard form which we will then forward to the authorising Minister for approval.
We need to receive their approval before we order the memorial as we will never start the process until we are sure your chosen design will be accepted. It is not unusual for Dioceses to prefer lighter- to darker-coloured granites, unpolished finishes and to refuse inscriptions containing pet names, designs with motifs, or larger memorials featuring kerbsets. Regulations differ and are subject to change but part of our role is to remain up to date with them, and advise you accordingly.
Help and Guidance with Diocesan regulations
If you are considering a new monument for a loved one in one of our local churchyards, it’s important to be aware of the local Diocesan regulations that guide what is permitted. These rules help preserve the character and sanctity of each churchyard. At J.Gumbrill, we’re here to support you through the process, offering practical guidance and linking you directly to the relevant Diocesan information for your area. Please use the links below to access the respective regulations, and please feel free to contact us with any questions
Chichester Diocesan Regulations
Guildford Diocesan Regulations
If your ideal design is outside of the regulations, you can apply for a Faculty but this can be a lengthy process in which the Diocese will need to liaise with you directly. During this time, the work cannot proceed. We suggest that memorials are instead chosen with the Diocesan regulations in mind.
If the churchyard you’re enquiring about falls outside these areas, we’ll be happy to help you find the appropriate regulations for that location and work with you to ensure your chosen design adheres to them.
Examples of our work on churchyard memorials...
Tablet Memorials
An alternative memorial, ideal for the interment of ashes, tablet memorials offer a simple, elegant way to honour a loved one in churchyards or cremation plots. Compact yet dignified, they are carefully crafted to reflect both tradition and personal sentiment.
Are you looking for help with a churchyard memorial? Do not hesitate to get in touch with our team.
