For the second consecutive year, The Windmills Natural Green Burial Ground, nestled in the serene countryside crossing the village boundaries of Hartwell, Ashton & Roade, has clinched the prestigious title of “Best Natural Burial Ground” in Central England, having laid 204 people to rest since opening in May 2020.
This accolade comes at a time of surging interest in eco-friendly funerals, with families increasingly opting for sustainable alternatives to traditional burial practices.
Amid growing environmental awareness and a pressing need to curb carbon emissions, The Windmills stands as a beacon of eco-consciousness. Each eco-burial at The Windmills is a powerful statement against carbon footprint, with the potential to spare a remarkable 190KG of CO2 from entering the atmosphere —equivalent to driving a car 470 miles.
Recent surveys underscore a shifting tide in funeral preferences, with 40% of respondents acknowledging the environmental impact of conventional funeral rites¹. Against the backdrop of rising funeral costs — up by 4.7% to £4,141 in the UK² and up 6.6% in East and West Midlands² — Windmills, like other eco-burial grounds, offers a compelling alternative with a single burial starting at £1600 (inclusive of interment and administration).
The coveted “People’s Choice” Awards are bestowed by the Association of Natural Burial Grounds and are based on feedback forms of families who have used their funeral services.
Founder of The Windmills and Humanist Celebrant Jo Painter said:
“My husband Neil and I were passionate about creating an environment which affords people the option of returning to nature when they die or say goodbye.
A natural burial allows you to be a bit more imaginative or be kept simple and less formal. In the summer months it’s not unusual for people to bring a picnic, have music playing or simply listen to the birds singing whilst they lay their loved one to rest amid these natural surroundings. With every burial and memorial tree planted, we are helping to create, protect and maintain natural habitats.
I am often asked “how do you do this job? It must be so sad”. Yes, indeed it can be very sad and evoke emotions but on the whole, it is the most rewarding thing I have ever done.”
Northampton-based, independent, Celebrant, Esther Diane, who crafts personalised ceremonies for funerals, weddings and other significant life-events, said:
“The increasing demand for eco-funerals reflects a shift towards sustainability and mindfulness in how we honour the departed. By embracing green practices such as natural burials and biodegradable urns, we not only reduce our environmental footprint, but create beautiful, meaningful legacies that harmonise with nature.
As a Celebrant my mission is to lovingly support families in their time of need creating a unique, personalised, ceremony that truly reflects their loved one.”
Spanning five acres of idyllic countryside, The Windmills integrates seamlessly with its surroundings, with graves designed to minimize environmental disruption. Traditional headstones give way to small wooden plaques, vibrant wildflowers, trees, and shrubs, creating a living legacy for generations to come.
Eco-funerals often involve using biodegradable materials for the burial or cremation of the deceased, such as wicker caskets or biodegradable urns, or even planting a tree in memory of the deceased. By incorporating elements of nature and sustainability into the funeral, eco-funerals can provide a sense of peace and closure for grieving families.
