We are compiling this directory of flowery burial grounds from across the UK, which we would recommend visiting if you are looking for a well managed site rich in wildlife and heritage. Burial grounds can have a rich array of plants, animals and fungi, and may contain the only surviving area of flower-rich grassland in a parish. All the sites listed here contain this habitat. To see the flowers at their best, late May to mid or end of July is usually the most suitable time to visit. However, do contact the site managers for more specific timings before you visit if this is important to you.
St Peter’s churchyard is looked after by a small group of volunteers with wildlife conservation in mind. The large churchyard, positioned on the south facing slope of the Greensand ridge. It is managed in different ways in different areas.
Leaving areas of the churchyard to bloom into wildflowers has been the method of management at St Peters for at least the past 10 years. There are also areas which are more conventionally managed and regularly mown.
The churchyard is a very special, in so far as it directly adjoins an ancient deer park. Biodiversity can range between the two relatively undisturbed sites. As well as a healthy population of Oxeye Daisies and other wildflowers, we have a very healthy population of protected reptiles & amphibians (slow worms, adders, toads and newts), who benefit from both the shady damp north side of the Churchyard as well as the sunny south facing slope on which the majority of churchyard is positioned. Amongst the wildflower areas are also populations of ground nesting bumble bee species.
The churchyard is still ‘open’ for burials and interments, unlike many which are managed for wildlife after closing. This brings with it a unique set of challenges as we try to balance maintaining & protecting space for nature, alongside the activities of a working churchyard (funerals, interments, outside church services, weddings etc) plus accommodating the many visitors who come to enjoy the view (over the deer park and low weald of Kent) and those who are walking through, as we are also on the route of a National Trial.
- Birders paradise
- Lichen haven
- Lychgate
- Peaceful space for quiet reflection
- Wild flower Areas in spring/summer
- Wildlife haven
Ancient yew tree
This is a sloping site but there is a tarmac path that runs through the churchyard and mown grass paths.
There are seats around the churchyard for enjoying the different areas and views.
The closest bus stop is at the Cock Inn a 20 min walk from the church. It is served by route 59.
https://www.arrivabus.co.uk/
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Add your burial ground.
If you would like to nominate a flowery burial ground that you manage for inclusion in our directory, please complete the form here. We will review all submissions before inclusion in the directory, so please understand you won’t see your burial ground immediately.Â
