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Tilstock Cemetery
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Tilstock Cemetery
At Butler Landscapes, we were honoured to create a design that balances formality, heritage and ecology for Tilstock Cemetery’s new entrance avenue. Commissioned to enhance the approach to a historic Celtic-style monument, our vision was to develop a contemplative space that unites structure and softness, welcoming visitors with dignity and beauty.
The entrance is structured around a central axial path paved in authentic millstone flags, offering a timeless, natural alternative to reclaimed York stone. Flanking this path are precision-laid brindle block edgings, forming a strong geometric rhythm that reinforces the formal layout and guides the eye toward the focal monument.
Strategically placed low-growing evergreen shrubs, lavender and viburnum define the shrub borders, providing colour, scent and year-round interest. These borders are designed not only for visual appeal but also to support local wildlife and create an immersive sensory experience. Select flowering trees, including ornamental cherries, introduce gentle height and seasonal bloom, contributing to a peaceful and reflective atmosphere.
The path leads to the Celtic cross monument, where millstone flags define the paved area, softened at each corner with clipped box or yew topiary cubes. This combination continues the formal theme while introducing green architectural elements in harmony with the site.
To preserve and protect the trees lining the approach, we designed hand-forged iron tree guards and entrance posts constructed from reclaimed bricks. These are crowned with custom wrought-iron crosses, reflecting the Celtic forms found in the monument and ensuring visual continuity throughout the entrance scheme.
A striking feature of this project is the bespoke metal cross design used for the gates and posts. Composed of flat and curved metal elements, this design creates a layered Celtic pattern when viewed from the front and back, reinforcing the sacred character of the site with craftsmanship and subtle symbolism.
The layout includes space for seating three timber benches are placed symmetrically along each side of the central path. This offers visitors quiet spots for reflection while preserving the avenue’s symmetry and clarity.