At LeisureBench, we know how important it is to get it right when choosing a beautiful memorial bench to remember loved ones. But, with so many choices, knowing which one to pick can feel overwhelming, so we’ve put together this handy blog to ensure you consider all the factors when choosing the perfect memorial seat. 

Where can I place a memorial garden bench?

It’s essential to consider the wishes and likes of your lost loved one while also adhering to your own needs; try to put your new seat somewhere you can mourn, where you feel comfortable, while also in a place that makes you reflect on happy memories and good times. Here are some excellent examples of where to place your memorial seat. 

• Beaches and Coastal Paths 
• Botanic Gardens
• Country Walk Routes
• Cemeteries 
• Parklands and Listed Properties 

Can I place my memorial bench near me? The answer to this is — of course! Don’t feel the need to place your bench somewhere elaborate; many people choose to place a bench in their garden to reflect in their own time and private space. 

Things to Consider 

Planning Permission

Should you decide to place your memorial seat in a public space, ensure you apply for planning permission to do so or risk having your new furniture removed. 

When doing so, you’ll learn about costs, maintenance, health and safety and limits to where you can and cannot place it. 

Installation 

It may seem an obvious solution to fit the bench yourself, but in some cases, council and local authorities require you to meet health and safety testing and standards regarding public use. 

For this reason, you will need the correct permission, and the council will likely want to supply their fitters at a cost to you to ensure everything is up to standard. Benches that compromise the public will probably be removed. 

Maintenance 

Consider maintenance when you install your bench and if you can commit to taking care of your new seat for years to come. It’s likely again that the council will want to maintain the seat with their staff as they will know and adhere to the health and safety needs. 

However, this doesn't mean they won’t charge you for doing so. 

Materials 

Okay — technicalities out of the way, it’s time to move on to discuss the best materials for your seat. 

Teak

The most popular choice of memorial seat is teak wood; due to its natural oils, teak is water repellent, will develop a silver patina over time, and requires far less maintenance than wood. However, teak is generally more costly, but many buyers believe this is worth it due to its elegant and timeless aesthetic.  

We stock a massive range of styles and sizes for you to browse, and even contemporary love seats that look great in gardens for you and your family to gather together and remember fond times. 

Wood 

Hardwoods such as oak and ash make excellent cost-effective choices when purchasing a memorial bench. The place you choose to have your bench will likely commit to maintenance, but it’s worth bearing in mind these benches will require more maintenance than teak. 

Recycled Plastic 

If you’re placing a memorial bench in an outdoor place to commemorate your loved one, the chances are likely that they cared about their environment and looked after it. 

Why not commemorate their love for the planet with a recycled plastic bench that aesthetically mimics wood, benefits from protecting our earth, and is highly durable and low maintenance? 

Metal 

Often overlooked, choosing a metal bench is an excellent option for something to stand firm against the elements. Metal isn’t going to warp or splinter and can be protected from rust with a thin layer of grease sealant. 

Personalisation 

Lots of people choose to include an engraved message on their memorial bench to commemorate their loved ones; popular choices include 

- With Love 

- In Loving Memory 

- Never forgotten

You may also include a line from their favourite song or poem or the date of their passing. 

How Much Are Memorial Benches?

LeisureBench's teak memorial benches are priced between £280 and £1,158, depending on your needs and preferences. 

Then, on average, it costs around £3.10 per letter on back rails, £42 for a brass plaque or £63 for stainless steel and then a subsequent £1.10 for each letter engraved on brass and £1.26 for the stainless steel plaque.  

We want to help you get it right regarding memorial benches. Take time to browse our full selection of outdoor benches and contact us with any questions; we are always happy to help.