What people are saying about us
We have made a short film in which Angela Rippon talks to a number of families about their experience of having laid their loved ones to rest at Clandon Wood. Also on this page are comments from individuals who have written to us to express their sentiments about Clandon Wood and links to reviews on Facebook and Google where people have placed their thoughts.
Clandon Wood – some testimonials
Jane Grose
In words
Jill Doubble
May 2026
A place designed to celebrate the individual and our place in the world. Your ability to respond to the individual needs of each group that come to Clandon is wonderful and makes for a true celebration of the individual. No rushing, no worrying about the next group waiting outside and a beautiful experience with the horse and cart. A big thank you to all the staff that helped us celebrate Nick’s life.
Steve Duckworth
May 2026
Thank you for making my wife’s funeral a memorable event.
Jonathan Hobbs
March 2026
Everybody who we dealt with at Clandon Wood was welcoming, caring and extremely efficient. I have recommended and will for everyone I know that is looking for an alternative to the normal way of things.
Russell Dawson
March 2026
I cannot thank the team at Clandon Wood enough for the peace and dignity they provided during such a difficult time. We wanted my wife’s final goodbye to be a true celebration of her life rather than a sombre event, and Clandon Wood offered the perfect natural setting for honouring her memory.
The glass pavilion is a stunning, light-filled space that felt worlds away from the atmosphere of a traditional crematorium, which was something we were keen to avoid. Being able to hold the service while looking out over the meadows and the Surrey Hills brought a genuine sense of calm to an otherwise heartbreaking day.
The staff were exceptionally supportive and professional throughout; they never made us feel rushed, giving us the quiet time and space we truly needed. Walking through the estate to her final resting place felt incredibly natural and right; it is a great comfort to know she is resting in such a beautiful, living landscape. I cannot recommend Clandon Wood highly enough to anyone seeking a more personal, tranquil, and meaningful alternative to a traditional cemetery.
Steven Suckling
February 2026
Simply a heartfelt thankyou. My husband’s service and celebration of life could not have been better. It catered for the diverse religious and personal needs of the friends and family that attended. The technology all worked without a hitch and you wonderfully curated the playing of photos and music for the two different sections. You have a fantastic team and great local supplier recommendations.
Rebecca Stapells
February 2026
On recommendation of a friend of my mum’s we visited numerous times for my mum. The two occasions we made appointments the chap ferrying us about was fantastic. My mum was so happy to choose you for her final resting place. Mum passed away September 2025 and throughout the organising of her celebration of life all the staff my sister and I met were exemplary. The processes were explained fully and on the day everything went so beautifully and smoothly. I’ve been back a few times and whenever I’ve encountered a member of staff I’ve been greeted as if I’ve been remembered. I truly cannot thank you enough for making everything so wonderful. I particularly like the email updates about what’s happening there. I’ve wanted to join your coffee and cake days but am a bit shy at the moment. I will one day and I think it’s marvelous you do it. Thank you again – all our attendees were very impressed with the beauty of Clandon Wood and the appropriateness of the interment for my mum.
Christopher Barnes
18/02/2026
We choose Clandon Wood as it’s the complete opposite to a normal crematorium service where you have your 3/4 of an hour time slot then you have to be out and you’ve got people behind you queuing up for the next service and wreaths of flowers all over the place. Not a nice experience at all. The surroundings are beautiful and it’s so nice being able to have the service and reception in the pavilion, you don’t feel rushed at all to be out at a particular time. The other item which was nice was the list of caterers and celebrants which just made life so much easier. The caterers we chose were Table Affair and the celebrant Helen Noble were absolutely fantastic. The whole package that Clandon Wood provided was just brilliant.
Cynthia Stanbury
February 2026
We were able to give my late husband the most wonderful memorial event exactly as we had envisaged, followed by a private interment of his ashes. Nothing was too much trouble for the friendly and relaxed staff who made it all possible. All this in the most wonderful setting imaginable. So many of his friends said how joyful and uplifting the event was.
Rosalie Bennett
January 2026
I had passed Clandon Wood many times and when my mother passed away in 2018. I was looking for a place for her ashes where I could visit regularly and be at peace and not sad. My Mum’s ashes were placed under a lime tree, her favourite colour, and from a convenient tree trunk I was able to sit and enjoy time with her, while looking at the North Downs. I could also take my beloved labrador with me.
My father passed away in 2025 and his ashes are now next to my Mum’s. They are reunited in a perfect place. We held a celebration of my father’s life in the glass pavilion and with the help of the wonderful staff (and a gorgeous sunny day) we were able to say goodbye with the family. The whole day was a celebration of life and filled with love. Thanks to the venue, staff and the beautiful setting at Clandon Wood, we can all rest knowing our parents are in a tranquil pocket of Surrey, surrounded by nature as it moves through its yearly cycle, but more importantly, cherished forever.
Jo Luke
October 2025
I liked the idea of having somewhere permanent to bury my husband’s ashes and to have it marked with a small memorial stone. It’s so lovely to be able to visit when I like and to sit and be alone with my memories.
Lisa Wernick
October 2025
My husband was taken too early, he said he wanted to be buried in the Surrey Hills so location perfect. On first visit I was welcomed warmly and shown the facilities by the staff. They worked well with me during the preparation and corresponded well via phone and email. On the day, even though sad, I felt they gave him a perfect send off in the perfect setting. I happily return to sit near his grave with the confidence and happiness that we gave him the best send off.
Name withheld
October 2025
We are so pleased our mum is laid to rest at Clandon Wood. It is a peaceful, tranquil place and managed with care, warmth and compassion. Thank you.
Louis
September 2025
The staff at Clandon are a delight – the perfect mix of warmth and gravitas. Everything felt personal in the best possible way.
Lynda Norris
August 2025
I had put off making any decision on what to do with the ashes of my Father, Mother and sister. As soon as I had come along to Clandon, I just knew it was the perfect place for them to be finally at rest. All of the Clandon staff I dealt with, over the phone or in person were lovely. So patient through all the decision making and many questions I had. On the day of the interment, everything was handled in such a lovely way, and I couldn’t have wished for a better send off for my family.
Jo Stedman
July 2025
I would love to give a special “thank you” to Claire, Louise, Alison and all the team for their help and care. My Mum and Dad are now resting peacefully in a beautiful meadow where I can sit and talk to them while taking in the gorgeous view. I know my Dad would have loved it – especially in the knowledge that my Mum would not expect him to weed it or mow it!
Name withheld
June 2025
All the staff at Clandon Wood were caring, knowledgeable and helpful. They answered all our difficult questions with compassion and helped the family through a very sad time. Thank you all.
Amanda Benstead
June 2025
I wanted to find a place for my mother’s ashes which reflected her love of nature. I felt that it was a place that she would have loved and it brings me a great amount of comfort to think of her being surrounded by nature rather than in an impersonal crematorium. The staff at Clandon Wood made us feel very welcome and made the whole process very smooth and personal. I love the thought of being able to visit through the seasons and watch the nature reserve develop.
Verity Vinen
May 2025
On behalf of our father, and the whole of the Vinen family may we sincerely thank you for supporting us with mum’s burial. From choosing the plot to the memorable journey to her final resting place, you have supported us with such care and dignity. We could not wish for a more perfect setting for Hazel, where we can visit as a family and be comforted by the beautiful surroundings. Our heartfelt thanks to you, and all the staff involved in giving our mum the perfect farewell.
Fiona Roberts
April 2025
Can I thank everyone at Clandon Wood for a wonderful day on Friday. It was really appreciated by those who attended, whether present or via the link. Everyone was wowed by the serene location and the following comment was typical: “Perhaps a rather odd thing to say but I really enjoyed yesterday, by far and away the most positive funeral I’ve ever been to. And a delight to see old friends and remember….”
Julie Woodcock
February 2025
Everyone we spoke to was so lovely and the support given was excellent at such a hard time
Name withheld
January 2025
I was so incredibly grateful to the Clandon Wood staff for their support and kindness at the worst time of my life. The service I received was outstanding but more importantly exactly what I and he would have wanted.
Diane Cowden
November 2024
Whilst being distressed due to my husband’s death the staff and the meadow and ambience helped me and my son cope.
We received so much care and support during proceedings and when I subsequently visit my husband’s grave.
Thank you for your help.
B. Tate
November 2024
It was a special day, moving but not sad, for which I am grateful.
Name withheld
October 2024
The pavilion was excellent for both the ceremony and for the wake. After the funeral a friend said ‘This is what I want when it’s my time’.
Tracy Ingram
October 2024
Thank you so much. The funeral and burial was perfect. It’s such a difficult time, but the Clandon Wood staff did the utmost to make it easier and I can look back at the funeral with a sense of peace.
Sara-Jane Licordari
October 2024
Thank you for providing such an impeccable service, I enjoy every visit and always leave with feelings of tranquillity and peace.
Name withheld
October 2024
This was by far the best experience of any funeral/burial I’d had, due to the peaceful and naturally beautiful location. The Clandon Wood team was great to work with.
Thank you.
Name witheld
September 2024
A lovely space to celebrate a life. A welcoming place to invite friends and family to.
T.Tellefsen Hughes
September 2024
Thank you all so much for making our farewell to my husband so beautiful and memorable. The whole event ran so smoothly and well and me and my family were able to relax into the occasion and be very present instead of worrying about small things.
The location is so very beautiful and serene, and we could not believe it when we all saw the buzzard flying over our heads as we lowered the urn into the ground.I felt that we truly gave Steve a good send off with lots of tears, laughter too and many memories.
Thank you for being able to run it so smoothly and with such ease for us, on a very heavy day in our family’s life. Thank you also for being open to us doing things a little differently, and I was so pleased that it worked so well and people engaged with our ceremony of the cardinal elements in the way they did.
I cannot begin to thank you how much this meant to us, and how beautiful the day was.
H. Bennett
May 2024
Many thanks for your compassion and understanding. Clandon Wood is a beautiful and peaceful resting place.
Alice Macbeth
April 2024
The kindness showed and help given to us after our twins died made the Clandon process as easy as it could be, forever grateful for this – thank you.
Kitty Kahan
January 2024
Thanks to all for making my mother’s funeral a really special day in an amazing setting.
Chris Phillips
December 2023
We valued having just our funeral on the day, unlike funerals where the deceased is on a timed list, with other funerals before and after.
This was special to us as it gave us the space and time we needed, before and after the ceremony.
Julie Littlefield
Sept 2023
Although I haven’t gone to one yet I like the idea of the Tea cake and company sessions. I get very lonely since my husband died and will probably come to one. It’s nice to know it’s there. It is also nice to know there are friendly staff if I have any questions about my husband’s burial plot.
Steve Williams
August 2023
I would like to praise and thank Alison in particular, for the help, sensitivity and kindness before, during and after my wife’s burial.
Pauline Fancy
22ndJuly 2023
Everything was just perfect for my Mum’s funeral and burial – even the weather!! Everyone who attended said it was the best funeral they had been to! It was a perfect day – I wouldn’t change a thing!
Thank you so much for making things easy at what is a difficult time. Also would like to thank the catering company, The Table Affair and the Celebrant, Mary Morgan, each chosen from your helpful lists, for making it a wonderful day and not forgetting Dandelion Farewells! All of you worked so well together.
Adrian Adcock
24th July 2023
Several attendees at my wife’s funeral all advised that they loved the site so much that they changed their own funeral plans and were intending to be buried at Clandon Wood.
I have already booked a plot next to my wife’s grave.
Adrian Adcock
Kate Oppenheimer
July 2023
Everyone I spoke to was helpful and kind and flexible with dates. The caterers who were on your list of suggestions were excellent and did a great job on the day.
It all made a difficult day as easy and pleasant as possible.
Jane Tatum
June 2023
Apart from the incredible setting, particularly the lake which I thought so appropriate for my fisherman husband, the staff at Clandon Wood have been great.
Ailean was my first contact and was really helpful in giving me and my children the initial information we required. She also heard what we wanted from a celebrant and we chose Rachel Thompson from the folder of celebrants familiar to Clandon Wood, who was perfect for the service. Clare has also replied to queries from me and again has been very responsive and nothing has been too much trouble.
The service was beautiful – just what I wanted for Alan and again, Clandon Wood gave me a recommendation for a tea/coffee van who were absolutely lovely.
The information pack is also extremely helpful. I attended my first bereavement café last Sunday and I appreciate that these are put on. So many people who attended the service have said they would be interested in being there.
Martin Oliver
June 2023
Clandon Wood is a special place and a much needed alternative to church services and/or crematoriums.
My wife chose to be buried there due to its natural beauty and the fact that we would have time to hold a longer more personal service.
The staff have been kind and helpful throughout the most difficult time in our lives – thank you.
Wedding ceremony
Molly & Eóin Tunstead
22nd May 2023
From the bottom of our hearts THANK YOU
Thank you for making our wedding day so special. Clandon Wood truly is a magical place, and we feel so blessed to have shared such wonderful memories with our dearest friends and family there. It honestly felt like we were in a movie.
Thank you all so much for your help and hard work. We will remember those moments for the rest of our lives.
With love,
Molly and Eóin Tunstead
Claudia Kearns
17th May 2023
Hi All
I just wanted to express my thanks and appreciation of all the support professionalism and compassion you showed regarding the ceremony my partner Tom it really was a beautiful day I know we’ll have a beautiful place to go and see him the reserve being even more beautiful than when I visited the first time and Becky your delivery was perfect once again many thanks to you all
kind regards
Claudia
Mrs Barnes
18th May 2023
To all the staff at Clandon Wood,
Re: Lennie Hornsby-Smith
On behalf of myself and all the family, we just wanted to thank you very much for your advice, care and kindness shown. We felt supported through the whole process; selecting a plot, planning the funeral, booking the slate memorial and at the burial. We have subsequently visited the site and the grave looks really lovely now that it is filled, with the coffin flowers and memorial slate sensitively placed.
We really can’t thank you enough.
With kind regards,
Mrs Barnes
Valerie Walsh
February 2023
We have been to too many cremations – on the conveyor belt and following each other – don’t go over the allotted time! Didn’t want a burial in a graveyard.
Much better to go back to the earth without tombstones – which will eventually be neglected and forgotten – that’s if the authorities don’t reuse your grave.
Lucinda Anderson
February 2023
My thanks to the staff who were kind, sensitive and very helpful and they made an awful time much more bearable for me.
Phil Hardyman
February 2023
We had a wonderful event and all the feedback from our friends was so very positive and complimentary of a very different experience. I would happily recommend it in future.
Ian Brooker
8th February 2023
Dear Clare,
Thank you to everyone at Clandon Wood for making Dad’s funeral yesterday such a special event. The pavilion was perfect, and everyone commented on the lovely location and service provided.
I am sure we will be back many times to visit Mum and Dad’s grave and enjoy the location.
Best regards
Ian Brooker
Chris West
16th January 2023
The perfect place to host a natural burial. It is a lovely setting, and will only get more picturesque as the trees mature. We laid our mum to rest in January, and the team at Clandon Wood were so helpful in organising our day, it couldn’t have gone more smoothly, and the glass pavilion overlooking the meadow was a beautiful setting to hold the ceremony. I am looking forward to spending special time here when the flowers are in bloom.
Chris
Katy
13th January 2023
To all the team at Clandon Wood,
Thank you all so much for facilitating such a perfect burial and farewell ceremony for Mum yesterday. The day was as perfect as it could be and Mum would’ve absolutely loved and treasured every moment, as we did and will continue to do so in our memories and on visits to the meadow.
Warmest wishes
Katy
The Beaumont family
10th November 2022
To all the staff at Clandon Wood,
Thank you so much for all that you did to help us organise my late husband’s burial and memorial. The day these took place, 25th October, was a sad, but also beautiful day, and very comforting.
We love to think how peacefully David has been laid to rest at Clandon Wood.
With love,
The Beaumont family
Roger E
6th November 2022
A short note to say ‘thank you’ to you all for the part you played in making what was a difficult day for the family, run so smoothly.
Many of the guests commented that it struck just the right note in celebrating Mum’s life. One guest declared that it was the ‘best funeral’ they had ever attended (!) and more than one stated that having experienced the service at Clandon Wood, they would be ‘considering their arrangements’ – so you might get some more work from it!
The location and every element was perfect (the sunshine helped), and I was immensely proud to be able to give my dear Mum the send off that she deserved – accompanied by laughter, good wine and The Beatles.
Many thanks,
Roger E.
Sarah O’Connor
5th August 2022
Hi All,
I’d like to say a massive thank you for making Mummy’s burial so special for us. A difficult day was made rather magical by taking place in your beautiful surroundings, with your supportive staff team, and everything running like clockwork, even the horse and cart. Your gentle professionalism was much appreciated and enabled us to think about our wonderful Mum and have no worries about the more formal parts of the day.
Many of us were talking about how delighted we’d be if in due course we too could have a resting place at Clandon Wood.
Many thanks for all your help and support.
With very best wishes
Sarah O’C
Julie Watson
21st June 2022
Dear all at Clandon Wood,
I just wanted to drop you a line to thank you for everything that you did to make my father’s funeral and final resting place memorable for all the right reasons. From our first visit, when Ailean showed us around and helped us find the right plot for Dad to the day of his funeral, you have all been so kind and helpful.
It’s a huge responsibility deciding where your loved one’s final resting place should be. Dad loved nature and wildlife and was an artist who loved to paint scenes of natural beauty so, Clandon Wood seemed the perfect choice. Your glass pavilion was a lovely venue to hold his service and wake. I had so many reservations and anxieties about his funeral arrangements. I really wanted everything to be perfect and a special occasion for all who attended.
Thanks to your recommendations for a minister and caterers and the professional way that Clare handled the audio and visuals on the day, everything went off perfectly. I know that for almost all of our guests, this was their introduction to a natural burial and they all seemed very impressed with our ‘alternative’ to the more traditional Church/Crematorium funeral. Hopefully, it will get people thinking and converting to this more environmentally friendly option.
Since his funeral on the 31st May I have been back twice to visit his grave. Looking at the beauty of the meadow has only confirmed that we made the right choice. On the day of Dad’s funeral I met Simon and had an insightful conversation with him. I was impressed by his passion for Clandon Wood and his knowledge of the Flora and Fauna as well as his vision for it’s future. I look forward to attending some of your events and watching the changes at Clandon Wood over the seasons.
Sending my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to you all.
Kind regards
Julie Watson
Isobel
26th May 2022
To all the staff team at Clandon Wood
I just wanted to express my thanks for all your help, support and kindness throughout the past few weeks, as well as your supportive presence on the day of our service.
All our guests loved the location and the overall aspirations of Clandon Wood, and felt it was the perfect resting place for our loved one.
While no-one wants to be in a position of attending a farewell ceremony, Clandon Wood provided us with a positive experience and a mutual sharing of a sense of peace.
So, thank you all again, and please know that you are all providing a very important service to all of those who come to your doors.
With kind regards
Isobel
Georgina
23rd April 2022
Dear Aileen and Team,
I’d like to thank you all for enabling us to hold a very wonderful funeral to celebrate John’s life. Everything was perfect in every way. Everyone who came loved the location. We appreciated also the way the room was set up for us on arrival which made it so easy for us to settle into the space.
I particularly appreciated how generous you were with time before and after the funeral. It was in marked contrast to cremations I’d been to which always feel as though one is being processed through a system. Your relaxed attitude to the children made the day enjoyable and memorable for them, particularly allowing the hand cart rides.
We are so glad we chose Clandon Wood.
Thank you
Georgina
Wendy Thompson
7th March 2022
Afternoon Clare,
We just wanted to say a big thank you for making Dad’s funeral a memorable and special day. We had high hopes for the day, as Mum passed away a few years ago, so we were familiar with how you adapt and make the day so personal to each family.
You didn’t disappoint, the day ran so smoothly, in the background without hesitation you took care of our guests needs and nothing we requested was a problem.
Thank you once again
Wendy, Alison and Jonathan
Linda Morgan
31st January 2022
Dear Clandon Crew
What a splendid day 31st January was for all our family and friends. Peter would have loved it and a friend wrote to me ‘If a funeral can be marvellous, this was it’ which says it all.
Many of those present were not aware of Clandon Wood and were absolutely bowled over by the vista, the pavilion and the wonderful, relaxed atmosphere. One friend phoned his parents on the way from the funeral to the pub and told them they must book a plot immediately! Some of those present, including myself, reconsidered their view that they should be cremated.
So thank you all for making it (apart from the wrong Swing Low 🤫😂) a wonderful celebration of the life of my lovely Peter.
Kindest regards
Linda
Mrs J Long
November 2021
Just a few days after my husband’s sudden and unexpected death in July, I visited Clandon Wood with my three adult children after a recommendation from a friend. I used to wonder about the phrase “my heart felt uplifted”, but as soon as I saw your meadow, that’s exactly what I felt. Since we were both botanists, I knew he would be happy there and in fact I have already “booked” my plot next to his. My children are very pleased that they already know my wishes in advance, it takes away that extra decision they will have to make.
Graham Ellis
24th September 2021
The home visit by Simon and the brochures that you sent were excellent and put us all at ease. We knew we were in safe hands. Thank you very much.
Bernadette Blair
September 2021
Dear Clare
I wanted to thank you for your assistance at Brian’s funeral last Tuesday morning. Everything was perfect and the family couldn’t have wished for better weather or a more beautiful setting for Brian to rest in.
Many of the mourners voiced interest in looking into also buying plots at Clandon Wood, could you let me know if there are any plots free near ours as my daughter and husband are seriously considering buying plots near Brian’s and mine.
Many thanks
Bernadette
Diana and Roger Wilson
June 2021
Just the most glorious calm wildflower environment. Great thought has already created this peaceful nature reserve/burial ground.
Ongoing monthly ‘meet ups’ and social seasonal gatherings create an overall pleasurable ambience to the location and for all age groups.
We are delighted to have chosen our final resting place and intend to visit frequently to enjoy the experience ‘before and after’!
The design of the pavilion is delightful and provides all equipment/facilities for any type of gathering celebration for any time of year. This is certainly not the case at any other natural burial ground that I know.
Very highly recommended.
Ian and Julie Wolseley
June 2021
Being able to see beautiful countryside, so much more reflective and peaceful than a closed in crematorium or church.
Efficient and sensitive staff at all times and communication was very easy and prompt.
Covid restrictions were implemented safely but with sensitivity and consideration.
You managed to turn a very sad occasion into a very poignant and beautiful one.
Clare Harriott
9th February 2021
Dear Simon,
I just want to say a massive thank you for all your help and support yesterday at Michelle’s funeral. It was a truly memorable day and a real privilege to be a part of it.
The meadow at Clandon Wood always provides the most stunning backdrop, whatever the season and yesterday’s weather was no exception. You’ve created the most lovely and calming space with the pavilion and the contrast of that and the icy graveside felt so relevant and beautiful yesterday.
We always love working at Clandon – it’s such a special place.
Hope to be back soon – please thank the team.
Best wishes,
Clare Harriott
Funeral Director
Poetic Endings”
Hannah Ditch
1st February 2021
“Hi Louise
I just wanted to say thank you to the Clandon Team. Simon is always a joy to work with – completely organised and on-it but in such a calm, welcoming and reassuring way. Between him and Dan they managed to walk Eddie down the side path, apparently perfectly timed (despite my gross underestimation of the service length) to the final piece of music, it was wonderful.
It was a lovely touch to offer a ride back on the cart, and a perfect way to break the tension and expectancy at the end of the burial service.
Live-stream and music all efficiently managed, and Covid-safe precautions all sensible and reassuring.
Thank you so much
Hannah Ditch
Funeral Director
Poppy’s”
A family
January 2021
A family member had recently attended a natural burial and suggested that this may be a good option for my husband.
The family particularly liked the information you provided on your website and my son decided to contact you directly and arrange to visit. Aileen very kindly showed us round and explained how everything worked and the site rules. We found a potential plot which we all agreed was ideal. She placed a marker and we booked a date for the commemoration. Due to the rapidly changing rules for COVID restrictions it was quite difficult to determine if the celebration could proceed and what would be permissible.
The securing of the plot for ashes was efficient and straight forward thank you. We were hopeful that we would be able to have both music and photographs on the day but we understood that this may prove difficult. We restricted invitations to strictly close family, recorded recitals by my two sons, set up a folder of photographs to be shown and selected additional pieces from Spotify. We sourced some cut flowers locally and arranged in vases and took along some memorabilia.
I met with Simon two days before the event. He was most helpful and it was clear that he understood our plans for the morning and was most accommodating. He even supplied an additional table for the occasion and thoughtfully arranged all the seating for us. There had been last minute change on urn size as the undertaker had misinformed me regarding the packaging from the crematorium resulting in us having to find a suitable urn at the last moment. We asked for the grave to be enlarged slightly and this proved to be no problem at all.
Thanks to Simon the day went extremely well. We set out to make the event a celebration of my husband’s life. All went very smoothly and everyone felt it was good send off for Lionel and the best we could have achieved under COVID restrictions. Whilst it would have been nice to invite friends and distant family and have food available afterwards, in many ways a small close group made the event very personal and special.
We were pleased to deliver a plaque recently and you have very kindly agreed to place this for me.
I wish to thank you all for your help and assistance in making this a good occasion. The family will certainly be recommending you to others.
Teresa Punter
December 2020
We chose to purchase plots at Clandon Wood because we like the beautiful
We felt it would be a beautiful and peaceful place for our family to remember us and reflect on our happy times together.
Rachel Dearnley
December 2020
Our family are so at peace with the decision we made to inter our mother’s ashes at Clandon Wood. She was at one with nature in life, particularly trees, birds, and hills. She had never voiced any views on where she wanted to rest, but we know if she could tell us, she would be happy with the tranquillity and unfussiness at Clandon Wood.
We very much appreciated Simon’s warm and open chats on where was going to be the best plot and we found the just the right spot. He was easy to talk to and understood our grief at a very emotional time. We find it comforting to be able to visit Mum and enjoy time just sitting on the log by her tree. Walking around the grounds is soothing and peaceful and seeing sheep grazing nearby was a joy. It’s also nice to see others doing and feeling the same, it feels like a good community.
When restrictions are lifted we will look forward to joining others in the events that are planned. Thank you for creating something very beautiful in so many ways.
JM
December 2020
I am truly grateful for all the hard work that has gone into setting up and maintaining Clandon Wood. I have only really ever had quite negative experiences of places of remembrance before, but Clandon Wood is a place I actively look forward to visiting.
The way we are able to say our final goodbye, in total privacy, on our own terms, in our own way, meant everything. We didn’t have an allotted time with another group close on our heels. We were able to breathe in every sense. Our children were intimately involved, in a way that hadn’t felt appropriate at the crematorium.
On the day, the wind blew, the sun shone, we drank champagne and breathed the fresh air. Life was all around us and I couldn’t think of a better way to say goodbye for now.
With love and thanks,
JM.
Karen Boardman
August 2020
I have always experienced Clandon Wood as a vibrant, beautiful, well managed resting place for my son.
The reserve is an exceptionally special place to visit and experience the change of seasons through the colours, sounds and appearance of the plants, insects, birds and animals who share the space.
Experiencing the natural cycle of the seasons throughout the year enables me to take part in a more natural grieving process. The rise and fall of the meadowland allows me to see my child’s resting place as a part of a natural, thriving landscape – a profoundly peaceful place, yet surrounded by natural life, engaged in its endless cycle. It never feels lonely.
Clandon Wood always feels dignified, well maintained by experts who obviously care, safe and welcoming.
Name: Catherine Stratta
July 2020
I would like to say that we were very impressed with the kindness and understanding shown by all the staff and managers. A difficult time was made much better by everyone with whom we spoke with or met.
Various individuals
Spring 2021
Below is a selection of comments received from people who purchased a plot or have laid to rest a loved one at Clandon Wood during February and March 2021.
Why they chose Clandon Wood.
“More informal, less like a cemetery, pleasant walk around the site.”
“Because of what it is – a green site; natural; location.”
“My wife wanted to be buried naturally.”
“Liked the natural open layout, well thought out.”
“Like the peaceful and natural environment.”
“Peace and knowing my mum would be truly left in peace.”
“The location and proximity to home.”
What they particularly liked about Clandon Wood.
“Simplicity of ash plots, views, choice of area, tranquility.”
“The atmosphere of the site.”
“The lake and planting around it.”
“The thought that my wife would be in a wild flower meadow.”
“All of it. The whole ethos.”
“The layout and the concept.”
“Very peaceful.”
“Location and guarantee of loved ones’ plots not being disturbed.”
“Naturalness of site. Helpful staff.”
“Quiet and peaceful.”
Various individuals
Winter 2020/21
Main text: Below is a selection of comments received from people who purchased a plot or have laid to rest a loved one at Clandon Wood between November 2020 and January 2021.
Why they chose Clandon Wood.
“The natural setting.”
“Prefer to have ashes in a wildflower meadow and nature reserve.”
“It is friendlier in feel – not like a cemetery.”
“Environmentally friendly.”
“Natural and close to family buried there.”
“Ecological ethos and beauty of setting.”
“Natural burial, nature reserve, good numbers permitted to attend during Covid.”
“Close to home. A quiet and peaceful spot to visit regularly.”
“We want a natural resting place.”
“Wanted a natural burial. Bonus was that it was also a nature reserve.”
“Location and nature reserve.”
“Being a natural burial ground.”
“The peaceful surroundings and helpful staff.”
“Wide open land, didn’t look like a burial ground and is a nature reserve.”
“The concept of a natural burial befitting of deceased.”
“Beautiful calm non-religious green space”
What they particularly liked about Clandon Wood.
“The concept and vision.”
“That we were left to mark our interment alone, with no one ‘official’ hovering nearby – it made a huge difference.”
“Peaceful, natural, atmosphere, calm, staff welcoming.”
“The concept of a burial ground combined with a nature reserve.”
“The peacefulness of Clandon Wood.”
“Complete natural surroundings and wild flowers.”
“Information about wildlife and the sustainability of the ground.”
“Beautiful environment.”
“Pavilion is stunning. Covid dealt with well.”
“Pond, nature reserve.”
“I wasn’t able to visit, but the e-mails and info given was great – thank-you everyone.”
“Horse and cart and sensitively handled Covid precautions. Staff caring and very helpful and informative.”
“The staff.”
“Protecting the natural environment.”
“The way it links to nature.”
“George was very helpful. Loved the pavilion. Simon was great.”
“Openness of the ground, easy access and parking, peacefulness.”
“Layout, glass pavilion, nature reserve, wildflowers and trees.”
Various individuals
Summer/Autumn 2020
Below is a selection of comments received from people who purchased a plot or have laid to rest a loved one at Clandon Wood between May and October 2020.
Why they chose Clandon Wood.
“A previous funeral we had attended; the atmosphere was not at all morbid, so peaceful.”
“Impressed by the nature reserve when we visited and the peaceful atmosphere.”
“Its simple beauty and non-denominational approach.”
“The ethos of Clandon Wood and the peace, tranquillity and beauty of the surroundings.”
“Completely natural, comfortable to visit and all the wildlife.”
“Nature reserve, close to home, not a ‘cemetery’.”
“Environment, ethos, location.”
“It is a nature reserve and my husband loved walking in the Surrey Hills and the views were perfect.”
“Beautiful place for my Dad; the orchard was ideal for him to be.”
“Woodland site; nature reserve; space and peace.”
“Felt it was right for Mum.”
“Beautiful nature reserve; love the pavilion; all maintained with care.”
“The environmental concept and feeling of space and fresh air.”
“Nature reserve. Memorials minimal and controlled.”
What they particularly liked about Clandon Wood.
“Its plans for continuity; its atmosphere of calm.”
“The country surroundings, so peaceful and doesn’t feel like a cemetery.”
“The gentle wildness.”
“The kind, empathetic and helpful staff and the ability to have family and friends gather within the nature reserve.”
“The sensitivity of ALL staff at a really traumatic time.”
“AONB, ethos, obvious commitment to dignity, taking care of burial reserve.”
“The way we were assisted with the golf buggy and nothing was too difficult.”
“Relaxed and friendly approach and felt I could trust your organisation.”
“I could take my grandchildren and it would not be morbid and we could have a picnic.”
“Atmosphere of calm.”
“Beautiful, informal and relaxed.”
“Personal care and level of service. Careful management of site.”
“Friendly staff and relaxed.”
“Pavilion – wood-burner, glass and views.”
“Peaceful – like the grazing sheep.”
“It’s natural appearance.”
Various individuals
Winter/Spring 2020
Below is a selection of comments received from people who purchased a plot or have laid to rest a loved one at Clandon Wood during Winter/Spring 2020.
Why they chose Clandon Wood.
“Non church based burial, natural, pavilion and sheep!”
“My wife expressed a wish to have a natural woodland burial. A friend had used Clandon Wood and very pleased.”
“Lived in Surrey since 1981, I purchased a plot earlier this year. Sadly my mother died in April so I have purchased a plot for mum plus one for dad for the future.”
“My mother had requested a natural/woodland burial. We had heard positive reports from a friend who had been to a funeral with you and the funeral Director also recommended you when we asked about woodland burials.”
“Burial in a natural setting.”
“Natural burial site, Proximity to relatives, the look of the site.”
“It is beautiful and peaceful. We felt that laying our loved one to rest there was a better, and less upsetting option than a crematorium.”
What they particularly liked about Clandon Wood.
“Nothing to add, just keep up the good work, thanks.”
“The location of Clandon Wood has natural beauty and is very peaceful.”
“The peace and being with nature.”
“Lack of fuss. Natural. Upfront and personable service, happy to explain without being patronising.”
“Peace and tranquility in abundance.”
“Particularly liked the personal approach and friendliness of the staff on the day of burial. It was very normal with no stuffiness or expectations.”
“Particularly like that it does not feel like a cemetery and is a beautiful and uplifting place to visit. Look forward to the monthly afternoon teas, once these are eventually reinstated post Covid.”
Meryl Hayes
December 2019
“Such an amazing place! Particularly like the attention to nature and the fact that the staff don’t wear black. It seems an odd thing to say about a burial ground but it really is an uplifting place”.
Mrs Jennie Webb
November 2019
“We attended the funeral of a friend and I made my mind up straight away this is what I would like. I grew up on a farm and I love the countryside, going to my resting place by horse and cart, and being almost opposite the Celia Cross dog rescue where we get all our dogs from. The pavilion is lovely for a service. So everything I need is in one place. This was one of my easiest decisions to take.”
Chris Watkins
September 2019
“The environment and atmosphere created an uplifting and spiritual feeling among all who attended my husband’s funeral. Strangely unfuneral but a happy memory.”
Chris Mutton
September 2019
“Zoe and I would like to thank all of your staff at Clandon Wood for helping to make Katie’s funeral such a fitting spectacle for her extraordinary life. The pavilion was the perfect venue for her tribute and reception and the peace and tranquillity of her burial site was the ideal location for reflections and goodbyes. George was always quietly on hand to steer us through the procedures with all of your staff seamlessly entering into the spirit of Katie’s last party. Please pass on our thanks and please fill free to use our letter of thanks to inform others of your unique venue and services.”
Jessica Brown
August 2019
“We like the idea that Mum and Dad will be nearby and as we sometimes drive past when going about our daily lives, we will know they are there in those lovely surroundings. They enjoyed birds, insect life, trees and wildflowers and this is the perfect setting.”
Christopher Bonner
August 2019
“The whole day went exceptionally well and my wife was laid to rest with passion and dignity, which was a comment made by all who attended. My thanks to all the staff and the lovely grounds where my wife rests.”
Susy Canvin and Heather Playford-Denman
July 2019
“Our mother was a life long gardener and nature lover who wished her ashes to be interred at Clandon Wood. Staff could not have been more helpful, particularly on the day of the interment when it was pouring with rain. My sister and I feel it is the perfect place for our mother’s remains and that she is at peace in a place she chose and in surroundings she loved. We hope when the time comes to be in a similar setting ourselves. Thank you.”
Yvonne O’Neill
June 2019
“We wanted a burial where we could visit from time to time but did not want it to take place in a cemetery amongst a lot of gravestones.”
Keith Harding
June 2019
“My wife Janice and I had driven past Clandon Wood on a number of occasions since it opened. Although we had both initially opted to be cremated after death, we enjoyed nature and the countryside and became more and more interested in the concept of natural burial, as opposed to the more formal surroundings of crematoria or cemeteries.
A friend of Janice’s who died of cancer had a service at Clandon Wood, prior to her cremation but by this time, Janice herself had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and was too unwell to attend. However, other friends who were present spoke highly of the ceremony and the site, which led us to change our minds about our own departures. Towards the end, Janice decided that not only did she wish to be buried rather than cremated but she also wanted a natural casket, rather than the traditional solid wood with brass handles.
As a family we were all impressed by the way Clandon Wood staff dealt with our situation. There was no pressure on us to make any particular decision, just an obvious aim to be helpful and everything was done with a quiet efficiency. We were also very impressed by the standard of the ancillary suppliers (catering, flowers, memorial plaque and celebrant) suggested by your staff.
All those who attended the ceremony commented favourably on the occasion and the surroundings. Several of the family have been back to Clandon Wood since Janice’s funeral and we have all been delighted by its appearance and are fully convinced we made the right choice. I have also taken the opportunity to reserve the plot adjacent to Janice’s for myself.
Thank you all for making what was an inherently sad occasion into something that was less stressful and more bearable.”
Karen Hopper
February 2017
“I wanted to write and thank you for so kindly and gently helping Emma and I to settle Mummy into beautiful Clandon Wood. From first meeting you and you so patiently walking up and down the field with us to seeing your smiling face again last Friday you have been a tremendously intrinsic part of getting us happy and calmly to the end of her journey. The sun was setting as we laid yet more daffodils later in the afternoon last Friday. The lake and field were so peaceful and pretty. We’ll see you many more times I am sure but I will personally be forever grateful to such a charming man.”
Alison, Neil and Kirsty Craze
January 2017
“Thank you all so much for your help in organising Tony’s funeral. We were so pleased the way things turned out and everything went off like clockwork. It was such a beautiful, tranquil, albeit extremely sad day. We’ve had loads of comments on what a beautiful, peaceful setting Clandon Wood is and very fitting for a final resting place.”
Elizabeth and Tristan Dallas
December 2016
“Thank you all for working with us to assure that our precious twin girls have been laid to rest in a beautiful location. The photos will also remind us of how special the area is to our family for future years to come.”
Lucy Lawrie and Olly George
December 2016
“Olly and I wanted to say a huge thank you for making our day with you so wonderful. On such an incredibly sad day you all brought so much calm and kindness and peace. Clandon Wood is such a beautiful place. We will be returning often to visit Mummy and of course to see you all.”
Sarah Lambert and Suzanne Bant
October 2016
“A huge thank you to all the wonderful staff at Clandon Wood for their kindness and compassion and for making a very difficult time very much easier.
From the moment we arrived we were made to feel most welcome and when we were offered some of the delicious food in the office we were immediately sold on Mel who provided the perfect vintage tea for our ceremony just as mum would have liked! A special thanks to Louise for leading our ceremony and Elisabeth too for making it all run so smoothly. Who would ask for a lovelier place to leave their loved ones and a beautiful place to visit them in the future.”
Carolyn Nicklin
August 2016
“On behalf of my siblings I would like to thank you all for your sympathy and understanding when dealing with events leading up to our father Clary’s and Kathleen’s burial. It is the most beautiful setting for our parents to rest in peace and for us to visits them from time to time. The pavilion made a perfect setting for our family to be able to reflect peacefully with memories of our parents. Thank you once again”
Nikki Lloyd
August 2016
“We would like to thank you all for your help in organizing the service we had for our sister Lesley at Clandon Wood last Friday 5th August. All your kind efforts and work behind the scenes and on the day really helped make it a very special and memorable service. It’s a very beautiful place for her to be at rest.”
Various individuals
Summer/Autumn 2019
Below is a selection of comments received from people who purchased a plot or have laid to rest a loved one at Clandon Wood during Summer and Autumn 2019.
Why they chose Clandon Wood.
“I wanted a natural and environmentally friendly burial site.”
“Very peaceful and the plots are discreet and no (vertical) gravestones.”
“Natural burial site and somewhere to visit and contemplate, with dog!”
“Nature reserve – Family interest – Late husband loved sailing, walking etc etc – Late daughter was ecologist.”
“We liked the idea of a natural burial.”
“Location/setting/nature and non-denomination.”
“The family is very passionate about the environment.”
“Peaceful, natural environment.”
“Natural, green, flexible, empathetic.”
“It is just so special! It is warm, cared for and beautiful.”
“Liked that it isn’t morbid/sombre like traditional cemeteries.”
“Nature lover plus wildlife.”
“Beauty and calm of site.”
“Environmentally friendly.”
What they particularly liked about Clandon Wood.
“The layout, green burial site and natural burial, peaceful environment.”
“The flexibility around funerals services.”
“The rural setting and peaceful atmosphere.”
“The whole area; peaceful yet alive; a positive experience.”
“The peacefulness, the wild flowers and seeing lots of butterflies.”
“Staff friendliness and efficiency.”
“Calm nature, very helpful staff.”
“Lovely surrounding, staff very helpful and could not do enough to help. The team made a difficult experience seem seamless.”
“The space and the natural element.”
“Love the peaceful atmosphere, how you maintain it and the ethos of Clandon Wood.”
“The lovely location and environment.”
“We liked the way the site has been managed to look as natural as possible.”
“Peaceful rural setting, no gravestones/ornaments.”
“The peace and tranquillity of the area.”
“Serenity of area.”
“The beautiful view across the hills.”
Various individuals
Spring 2019
Below is a selection of comments received from people who purchased a plot or have laid to rest a loved one at Clandon Wood during the spring of 2019:
Why they chose Clandon Wood?
“Pastoral and peaceful nature of site.”
“Natural, green, flexible, empathetic.”
“It is very special and the perfect place for my husband – he loved the outside.”
“Different to a cemetery, somewhere I’d want to return to.”
What they particularly liked about Clandon Wood?
“The natural side of Clandon Wood.”
“Personal, kind, understanding, flexible, confidential.”
“All of it from the lovely grounds to the glass funeral building. Keep up the good work, Clandon Wood is special.”
“Friendly service.”
