Rules and permissions.

In the UK, there are no special laws governing the scattering of ashes in rivers, streams, lakes or the sea and no need for a licence, although you may need to seek permission from the landowner, if you intend to use private land to access the water.

Environmental impact.

The UK Environment Agency provide the following guidance with regards placing ashes into water:

Ashes themselves have little impact on water quality; other items should not be placed in the water with the ashes…carry out the ceremony with care and check the following things first:

• make sure the effect on the environment and wildlife is minimal (and that) the ashes scattering will not affect other watercourse users

• do not include the casting of wreaths or memorabilia as they may harm the environment and wildlife.

Some of the eco-urns in our gallery, are designed specifically for water ceremonies and these have zero impact on the environment, so there is no need to worry about the effect of either the urn or the ashes, in any suitable location.

As the Environment Agency points out, you should not put anything into the water or leave behind, any materials which might harm or detract from the environment, especially plastics, artificial flowers or other man made materials.

Most people choose a beauty spot of some significance to them or the deceased for a water ceremony and in our opinion, the location itself is the memorial, so no need to leave tributes like wreaths, bouquets or cards, which others may not appreciate in the same way that you do.

Planning the ceremony and safety.

Scattering the ashes of a loved one, in the water at a beautiful location can be a fitting and wonderful tribute. Planning the ceremony in advance, with a bit of common sense and consideration of the safety of those involved in mind, will help to ensure that the ceremony is every thing that you hope for.

We suggest that you do your research and visit any potential location in advance, to assess its suitability and consider how the tides, river levels and weather might impact your arrangements, so that you don’t get caught out. This is especially important if you intend to use a boat for your ceremony and you should also follow local and RNLI safety advice.

Our top 5 tips for planning a water ceremony

• Research - Visit your location to ensure that it is suitable and consider the tide, water levels, weather and the safety of those involved in your ceremony.

• Timing - Choose a time that your location will be easily accessible and quiet, so that you’re not disturbed by other visitors and you don’t interfere with their enjoyment of the space.

• Send a message - Many people like to leave a written message and children sometimes like to leave a drawing. If this is something that you would like to do, we suggest using rice paper or other edible paper which is water soluble and can be placed into the urn or offered directly into the water.

• Send flowers - If you want to use flowers as part of the ceremony, we recommend using fresh flowers which are de-stemmed or just the petals. Prepare them in advance and keep fresh in the fridge in a sealed bag, ready to be scattered on the water at your ceremony.

• Take only memories, leave only footprints.