Churchyard Memorials

A churchyard is regulated by the local Diocesan area of the Church of England, therefore subject to rules regarding the type of memorial that is permitted (the materials used, size and shape as well as the colour of the stone and paint used for the lettering) here are a few of the rules;
  • The inscription must be approved by the vicar
  • Nicknames or Certain words/phrases may be objected to
  • Some churchyards won't allow Polished or Red granites (call us if you have any queries)
  • White Marble for infant graves only
  • Sandstone and Limestone is permitted
  • Light and Dark granites are permitted
  • All churchyards ask that the stones are of a honed finish (So not to show reflection)
Bearing this in mind we do try our best to make sure you get what you want and in some cases you can apply for a faculty which if passed will allow you to have your desired choice even though its not within the rules. We are happy to talk through this process with you in more depth.

You maybe be wondering what all these variations look like so we have included a gallery below of Memorials which we had fixed into Churchyards both Local and further afield, names of the deceased have been removed for client confidentially purposes.
Above are some example of work which we have carried out in various different churchyards as you can see there is a wide range of memorial styles, inscription designs and coloured memorials




Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to wait before a memorial headstone can be erected ?
A period of 6 months must elapse after a full burial has taken place before a memorial can be erected.  This time is required to allow the ground to settle before it can take the weight of a memorial headstone.
Who has the right to purchase a memorial ?
The legal next of kin is the only person who has the right to purchase a memorial. If you are not married the right remains with either their parents if still living or siblings in eldest order.
Why can't I have a polished stone in a churchyard ?
All churchyard memorials have to be in keeping with there surroundings i.e. Churches that are listed buildings, hence the restriction in colour and the finish of the stone have to blend in with the church itself.
Why am I restricted on the wording I want ?
The Name has to reflect the birth and death certificate of your loved one. Any nicknames can be added in brackets underneath. the minimal dates allowed are passing away date and age.


Stone Guard Insurance

Accidents as rare as they are do happen to make sure they your memory of your loved one it protected against all eventualities. When people ask us about this optic we advise them to look at Stone Guard Insurance we have found them very friendly and co-operative. If this is something you are interested in please speak to us for further information. 
Some of the Local Churchyards we cover: