How Much Does Scattering Ashes Cost?

How Much Does Scattering Ashes Cost?

Thanks to an increase in the number of people choosing cremation over burial, more and more people are choosing to scatter the ashes of a loved one. 

When it comes to scattering ashes, there are many options to choose from; ashes can be dispersed into the air, released into a body of water, or scattered at a place that holds emotional value. The process of cremation ensures that the ashes are harmless and don’t come with any health risk. 

Below are a number of ways that you can scatter a loved one’s ashes and the law around scattering in the UK. 

 

Where can you scatter ashes in the UK?

In the UK, you are free to scatter ashes anywhere as long as you have the land owner’s permission. However, there are certain environmental guidelines for areas such as the sea and mountains. 

To scatter ashes, you can use a paper cup, a recycled can or another container. However, you can opt to purchase a specialist cremation urn to use to scatter your loved one’s ashes - these usually cost between £75 and £150. 

The Eco Scattering Urn is one option that’s growing in popularity as it’s affordable, made from bamboo (a sustainable resource), is 100% biodegradable and has a unique locking mechanism that allows you to scatter with control and secure and transport the ashes to one or multiple special locations. This unique scattering urn option provides families a dignified urn that allows them to gracefully scatter ashes. 

 

Scattering ashes in a churchyard, burial ground or cemetery

This is a simple option: scattering a loved one’s ashes in church or cemetery. All you need to do is ask the owner’s permission. Lots of cemeteries and burial grounds have dedicated memorial gardens for this purpose. 

 

Scattering ashes in the sea, in a river, or on a lake

You don’t require a license to scatter ashes at sea, in a river, or on a lake. The only stipulation for scattering ashes in water is that anything else scattered with the ashes should be made from biodegradable substances. Ensure that you are scattering away from any water collection sources, and are far enough away from marinas, buildings, and swimming spots. 

 

Scattering ashes on National Trust land 

If you want to scatter ashes at a National Trust site, it’s important to get permission from the National Trust. It’s best to check at the National Trust site that you would like to use, to see if you will be able to scatter your loved one’s ashes there. 

 

Scattering ashes at a National Park

Usually, scattering ashes at a National Park like Dartmoor or the Brecon Beacons is allowed, as long as permission from the organisation. 

 

Scattering ashes on a mountain 

The idea of scattering a loved one’s ashes on top of a mountain seems nice but ashes can actually damage the delicate ecosystem on mountainous landscapes, so it’s best to avoid scattering ashes on a mountain for this reason.  Usually, scattering ashes in the UK is free of charge. The only charge comes from the scattering urn - if you use one - and the cremation itself.