At Hillier Funeral Service, we understand that every farewell is unique. Whether you are looking for a traditional burial ceremony or a modern eco-conscious tribute, our family has been guiding families in the Swindon community with dignity and care since 1923.
Our team is here to provide full guidance and support for churchyard, cemetery, and woodland burial services, ensuring every detail is handled with the highest standards of excellence.
What is a burial?
A burial is the act of laying a loved one to rest in a designated grave. For many families in Swindon, this choice provides a permanent, physical place to visit and reflect for generations to come.
Burial Options
We offer a range of burial services to suit different preferences and needs:
- Churchyard & Cemetery Burials: Traditional burials in churchyards or cemeteries provide a peaceful and dignified resting place. Churchyards are usually linked to a local church, while cemeteries may be managed by local authorities or private enterprises.If a family plot already exists, we can often arrange its reopening, provided there is sufficient space and the necessary permissions. Even if grave documentation has been lost, this can usually be resolved quickly without delaying the funeral.
- Natural & Woodland Burials: For those seeking an eco-friendly option, services at Westmill Woodland Burial Ground, just outside of Swindon, provide a serene environment to commemorate a loved one in a more natural way.
Eco-Friendly Roundhouse Services can be held in a charming eco-friendly roundhouse that accommodates around 40 people and can be decorated by the family. Alternatively, a graveside service may be arranged
Westmill Memorial Circle Graves are unmarked, but families are invited to purchase a Memorial Tablet, which is placed in a central spiral around the large Communal Memorial Stone, creating a lasting tribute
No matter which burial option you select, we ensure that every detail is managed with care and professionalism.
The Burial Service
Before the burial itself, most families choose to come together for a service. This is a time to honour and celebrate the life of a loved one. A burial funeral service can be held in several locations:
- Traditional Venues: A service may be held in a local church or a cemetery chapel. At Hillier’s we have excellent relationships with all churches and cemeteries in the area.
- Westmill Woodland Burial Ground: For woodland burials, Westmill is a natural burial ground just outside of Swindon, where a service can be held in a charming eco-friendly roundhouse.
The Burial Itself
The final part of a burial service is where the coffin is lowered into the ground, this is called the committal.
- Traditional Burial Services: At the end of the traditional church service, the coffin is carried outside to the graveyard for the committal.
- Graveside Services: Some families choose to hold the entire service at the graveside.
- The Committal: This may be a private time for immediate family or incorporated into the public ceremony. It can be marked by a prayer, a reading, or simply a period of silent reflection. Loved ones often choose to place soil or flowers into the grave at this point.
- After Family Have Left: Once the family and mourners have left the graveside, the cemetery or churchyard staff will carefully fill the grave. A temporary grave marker is typically put in place to identify the resting place until a permanent memorial can be installed.
After the Burial
Following the burial, and when the time is right you may wish to arrange for a permanent headstone to be placed at the graveside.
- Time to Settle: It is important to note that a grave needs time to settle – often several months – before a permanent headstone can be safely installed.
- Choosing a Memorial: Hillier is here to help families choose a memorial that is right for them, whether it is a traditional headstone in the cemetery or a memorial tablet at the Westmill Memorial Circle.
- Navigating Regulations: Every burial site has its own specific rules and fee structures. Our team will guide you through these local regulations to ensure your chosen tribute meets all requirements.
- Lasting Tributes: We also offer a range of keepsake and memorial jewellery, such as fingerprint jewellery, to keep your loved one close to your heart.
Contact Our Caring Team
At Hillier Funeral Service, we are here to support you through every stage of arranging a burial. Whether you are choosing a traditional cemetery resting place or an eco-conscious woodland service, our family is dedicated to ensuring your loved one is laid to rest with the utmost dignity and respect.
We are available 24 hours a day to provide immediate advice, explain local burial regulations, and help you plan a ceremony that truly reflects a unique life
Frequently Asked Questions
Q How long does it take to arrange a burial?
A The timing depends on the type of service and location you choose. Our team works with you to arrange a service that fits your needs and schedule.
Q Can I include personal touches in the service?
A Absolutely. From music and readings to floral arrangements and decorations, we encourage families to make the service a meaningful reflection of their loved one’s life.
Q Are there eco-friendly burial options near Swindon?
A Yes. Westmill Woodland Burial Ground, is located just outside of Swindon and provides a natural, environmentally conscious alternative to a traditional burial.
Q Do you cater to religious or cultural practices?
A Yes. We respect all traditions and work with families to ensure the service aligns with their specific religious or cultural requirements. Please get in touch to discuss your individual needs.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss your options further please give us a call on 01793 522797 or get in touch.