At Harbour View, We Celebrate Lives
Have you ever wondered how you might honour someone's life in a way that feels joyful, personal, and filled with love? Imagine their favourite song playing softly as friends and family gather to share stories, laughter, and memories in a place where wildflowers bloom and birdsong fills the air.
These important moments deserve a space that nurtures both memories and the natural world around us.
At Harbour View, we help families create a Celebration of Life that reflects the individuality of the person you are remembering, while making an ethical choice for our planet. You can relax knowing that your celebration honours both your loved one and the environment they lived in.
Our team of experienced celebrants offer gentle guidance in our beautiful, eco-friendly setting, helping you find greener ways to say goodbye that feel meaningful and sustainable, while planning a Celebration of Life.
What is a Celebration of Life?
A Celebration of Life is a way to remember someone that focuses on the joy they brought to others, the stories they leave behind, and the memories that live on. It is different to traditional farewells in that it leans into what made them unique – their favourite music, their passions, their spirit – rather than following formal rituals or sombre tones.
People often ask us for Celebration of Life ideas, and we always say the same thing: start with the person. Whether they loved gardening, cricket, or simply a good cup of tea, these little details can become part of the tribute, turning it into something that feels authentic, heartfelt, and truly theirs.
What Makes a Harbour View Celebration Unique?
Harbour View understands that no two lives are the same, and so no two farewells should be either. We support families in creating celebrations of life that are as bright and personal as the people being honoured. We see colourful clothes, football shirts instead of black ties, and decorated coffins that tell a story.
We believe no service should be rushed. Time is allowed for what matters most. Some families choose to hold their Celebration of Life with a traditional service, while others prefer a direct cremation first, followed by a celebration weeks or even months later. Both approaches work beautifully in our space.
Regardless, we can help arrange music that meant something special, slide shows that bring smiles, and even a toast with a favourite drink. Our spaces invite these personal touches - writing messages directly on a coffin if you choose to have one present, setting up memory-sharing stations, or creating quiet spaces where guests can reflect.
This is about creating something real, something meaningful, and something unforgettable, exactly when it feels right for your family.
Outdoor Celebrations and Unique Settings
One of the things we love most about Harbour View is our outdoor celebration area - our own gentle take on Stonehenge. This open-air setting offers a perfect space for Celebration of Life ideas that embrace nature, simplicity, and freedom. It's a place where guests can gather under open skies, surrounded by 70 acres of woodland and an ever-changing ecosystem of wildlife.
Concerned about bad weather? Not to worry, as we always keep a ceremony hall available, ensuring that nothing disrupts your special day. These ceremonies can be informal, spiritual, or quietly reflective, with the natural beauty of the setting doing much of the speaking, offering comfort and connection in a way only nature can - whether you're celebrating outdoors or in the warmth of our indoor space.
For All Characters, All Lives
Whether the person you are celebrating was the life of the party or someone quietly thoughtful, we work alongside you to create a Celebration of Life that feels just right. From intimate gatherings to vibrant, music-filled farewells, we help families craft events that reflect the tone, energy, and memory of the person they loved.
It’s all about bringing their character into the day, so guests leave with memories that feel as warm and special as the life they honour.
Talk to Us About Planning a Celebration of Life for Your Loved One
With our peaceful woodland burial grounds and thoughtfully restored Victorian farm buildings, we offer a calm, eco-friendly space where every life can be celebrated in a meaningful, personal way.
We’d be honoured to help you plan a Celebration of Life that’s as unique as your loved one. Please feel free to call our compassionate team on 01202 630111 to start the conversation. There’s no pressure - we’re here to listen and support you. At Harbour View, we celebrate lives with warmth, respect, and the gentle embrace of nature, and we welcome you to get in touch.