I live in Uckfield. I’m very fortunate. The crematoria at Tunbridge Wells, Brighton, Eastbourne and Crawley are all within easy reach. And actually I am always happy to travel further. I have conducted funeral ceremonies at Worthing and Maidstone recently.
But now I have a new crematorium almost on my doorstep. I was invited to visit the new Wealden Crematorium near Horam, easy to find on the A267.
It is approached through farm land, and sheep can be seen grazing along the landscaped driveway to the large car park.
It sits in a very peaceful setting within the folds of the local landscape. It’s a contemplative setting. The builders have used stone, glass and even water for a building with a ceremony hall that seats 120 people. In the covered flower court outside there is extra standing room and a screen so that the service can be relayed outside.
Wealden Council, conscious of the need to protect our environment, took ecological and environmental advice, resulting in 30 acres of beautiful grounds, wildflower meadows and pasture.
It’s a short walk from the car park to the warm, modern waiting room. There’s a lovely feel of serenity and calmness. You wont need to wait around in the rain or the wind at this crematorium.
Did I mention water? Large windows down one side of the ceremony hall overlook a serenity pool and the whole feel is one of light and peace.
They have even thought about smaller ceremonies and designed the ceiling so that when there are just a few mourners, its low level brings an intimacy to the front of the hall.
I suppose it isn’t really appropriate to say that I am looking forward to working there but, as a Celebrant who has conducted hundreds of funerals, it’s clear to me that Wealden Crematorium responds to the needs of all faiths and cultures, and that the thought that has gone into its design has produced a funeral venue that nobody will mind having nearby, a crematorium that enhances our Sussex countryside.