Memorials and scattering ashes

Can I leave a memorial in the National Park?

We regularly receive requests for permanent memorials to be placed in the Lake District National Park. We appreciate the importance of memorials for the families of deceased loved ones and understand how a memorial in a cherished place or landscape can provide a comfort. However if we were to give permission to all the requests we receive, the numbers involved would become extremely intrusive in this natural and beautiful landscape. For this reason we refuse all requests for memorials on land owned by the National Park. For memorials on the other 96 per cent of land in the Lake District, we ask people to contact the landowner directly. Consider making a donation towards a project or location in memory of a loved one through Lake District Foundation.

Please note that memorials, such as benches and structures, may also require planning permission. To informally discuss whether you need to apply for planning application you can talk to a duty planner or attend one of our regular planning surgeries. Visit our Planning page for details.

If you plan to scatter ashes, you always need the landowner’s permission to spread ashes on private land. If you are thinking of scattering ashes on water, please try to avoid areas where people might be swimming, fishing or boating while you’re doing the ceremony. For inland rivers or lakes contact the local Environment Agency to check there is no nearby water supply.

We understand that families may wish to leave a temporary memorial item, however, it’s important to only use biodegradable, not plastic, wreaths or flowers if you need them. Ideally, we would encourage people to make a donation towards a National Park project or location in memory a loved one, such as a gate or bridge, whilst at the same time contributing toward the future of the Park.