Creating a lasting tribute: A guide to memorial benches
Have you ever strolled through a park and noticed a bench with a small, touching plaque? These aren’t just ordinary benches; they are memorial benches, each one a lasting tribute to someone special.
Commemorative benches serve as places of remembrance, offering solace and a space for quiet reflection.
In our guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about creating your own meaningful memorial bench, covering the practical steps, emotional considerations, and community aspects involves in this heartfelt process.
What is a memorial bench?
A memorial bench is a bench dedicated to the memory of a person who has passed away. It’s typically placed in a public location, like a park or garden, but can also be in private spaces such as personal gardens.
Unlike gravestones in a graveyard, a memorial bench is a more accessible and informal place where anyone can pause to reflect and remember.
Why choose a memorial bench?
For many, a memorial bench serves as a part of the grieving process. It offers a specific place that can be visited as frequently as desired, providing loved ones with the opportunity to reflect on shared memories.
A memorial bench in a public place, such as a park, can be a less formal and emotionally challenging place for some people to visit compared to a cemetery.
Planning your memorial bench
The location of a memorial bench is one of the biggest parts of your decision. Many choose a spot that held special significance for the person being remembered, or a location that is particularly important to the family.
It’s also important to consider the accessibility and overall feel of the location. Here are some popular opinions for memorial bench locations:
Public parks and gardens – These offer a serene and accessible environment for reflection.
Coastal paths – Beautiful scenic locations with a connection to nature.
Churchyards – If the deceased had a connection to a particular church.
National Trust properties – Scenic locations with historical significance.
Private gardens – If a personal, more intimate setting is preferred.
It’s important to check the capacity of public spaces, as some popular locations may have waiting lists or be at full capacity. You should also consider whether you prefer a busier or quieter place to reflect.
How to get a memorial bench: Contacting local authorities
Before installing any bench in a public area, you must obtain permission from the relevant authorities. This often includes contacting your local council, a churchyard manager, or private landowner. Most councils have online application systems to facilitate this process.
Key steps to take are:
Contact the relevant authority
Enquire about the application process
Be prepared for rules and regulations
Ask about potential costs
Enquire about the bench purchase itself and plaque (whether these are self-purchased or supplied by the council at a cost).
Enquire about any required permits
Choosing the right material and style of memorial bench
Selecting the appropriate material for your memorial bench is essential to its longevity and appearance.
Here’s a breakdown of popular materials:
Teak – often recommended due to its durability and low-maintenance qualities.
Oak – can be durable but requires regular maintenance (approximately every six months)
Metal – metal benches are durable and long-lasting but may require repainting after time due to weathering and use.
The size of the bench is another important factor to consider. Options are typically two, three, or four-seater benches. Some council may provide benches and plaques, while others will request that you purchase these yourself.
Personalising your memorial bench
Plaques are the most common way to personalise a memorial bench. They provide a space for personal messages, names, and dates.
Here are a few memorial bench engraving ideas:
Basic information – The name, date of birth, and date of death.
Personal message – Add a phrase such as “in loving memory of” or “forever in our hearts”.
Favourite quotes or lyrics – Include a meaningful quote, song lyric, or lines of a poem.
It’s important to be mindful of space limitations and any regulations regarding the wording.
Installation and maintenance of your memorial bench
Most councils prefer to install memorial benches themselves to ensure they meet health and safety standards and are correctly positioned. You should be prepared to pay an additional fee for the professional installation.
Maintenance responsibilities
Memorial benches in public areas are generally maintained by the council. However, you can help keep the bench tidy by cleaning the area or weeding around it. For major repairs or painting, you should report this to the council so they can do it safely and correctly.
Practical aspects of getting a memorial bench
The cost of a memorial bench varies based on factors like location, material, and the size. Here are the general costs you can expect to pay:
Bench cost
Plaque cost
Installation fees
Maintenance costs
Leasehold vs. permanent placement of memorial benches
Many local councils operate a ten-year leasehold system for memorial benches. This means that you can renew the lease after a decade or may have to choose a new place for the bench. Some councils will allow the plaque to be removed to take home.
Alternatives to memorial benches
Memorial trees
Consider planting a memorial tree as an alternative to a bench. Some councils allow you to dedicate a tree and attach a plaque.
Plaques on existing benches
If there isn’t space for a new bench, it may be worth requesting to add a memorial plaque to an existing one.
A memorial bench serves as a meaningful and lasting tribute to a loved one. By planning carefully, considering all of your options, and personalising the bench, you can create a space that will be a source of comfort and remembrance for years to come.
