Where you can scatter cremated remains

Find out where you can scatter cremated remains in Brighton & Hove, and things to consider when doing so.

In Brighton & Hove you can scatter the cremated remains of a loved one:

At Woodvale

To scatter remains at Woodvale you'll need to make an appointment. The scattering must be officially witnessed and recorded by a member of staff. We will help you to choose a place and show you how to use a scattering urn if you wish. 

You are welcome to make further arrangements to enhance the event.

If the cremation was at Woodvale, it is free to scatter in the Gardens. You can scatter cremated remains from other crematoriums for an additional fee. 

There are two areas where you can scatter cremated remains at Woodvale.

The Garden of Remembrance

This is the largest scattering area at Woodvale. It consists of an open grass area surrounded by trees and with various flower beds. 

If you have a memorial plaque in one of the rose beds, a plaque on a bench or an exclusive plaque by a tree, we can scatter ashes nearby. 

Find out more about outdoor dedications in the Garden of Remembrance.  

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The Woodland Walk

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This is a wooded area with log lined paths. It is particularly beautiful in the springtime when all the woodland bulbs start flowering. 

The option for a memorial here is a plaque on a log. 

Find out more about getting a plaque in the Woodland Walk.

At Woodland Valley

This is our natural burial ground in Woodingdean. 

We have two scattering areas there, the Woodland Glade and the Sea View Scattering area. There is a fee for scattering ashes. 

The option for a memorial here is a plaque on a bench. 

Find out more about Woodland Valley. 

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On a grave

Tree with white flowers with gravestones to left and right.

If you are the grave owner you may choose to scatter ashes on a grave. This will need to be officially witnessed and recorded by a member of cemetery staff. 

There is a fee for this service. 

Scattering in the sea, stream or river

You are legally allowed to scatter cremated remains into the sea, a stream or a river.

There is no evidence to suggest that the disposal of human cremated remains in flowing rivers, streams or tidal stretches has a negative impact on the environment.

The Environment Agency has no objections to the practice, provided your actions do not:

  • harm wildlife
  • harm the environment
  • cause distress to members the public

Things to consider

There are some things you should consider when scattering ashes on water to ensure that the process is legal, practical and a comfort for the bereaved.

When scattering cremated remains:

  • undertake the process with dignity and discretion
  • ask permission from the landowner if a river or stream runs along private land
  • avoid holding ceremonies in windy weather because of the risk of the ashes blowing away
  • spread them as close to the surface of the water as reasonably possible
  • do not put any other materials - such as wreaths, urns or plastic bags - in the water, or leave them behind afterwards
  • you must not be within 1km of any drinking water supply
  • you must not be close to bathers, anglers, within the waters of a marina, or over the bridge of a river used by boaters and canoeists
  • off of Brighton Pier, get permission from the General Manager first by phoning 01273 609 361. They are happy to assist families with their wishes. Ashes are usually scattered into the sea when the pier is closed to the public
  • further out at sea, you can hire a boat from a local Marina (Newhaven and Brighton). A suitable ceremony, religious or non-religious could take place in these circumstances.