Following over 20 years of research and planning, the Crownhill crematorium opened in the spring of 1982. 

The crematorium, which is to the west of Milton Keynes, is set in seven hectares of attractive grounds, incorporating the wooded area along the old A5 roman road (now the V4 Watling Street), and the planting remains informal, reflecting its woodland design.

The Chapels and Buildings

There are two chapels, the Willow Chapel, built in 1982 and the newer, larger, Oak Chapel, built in 2010-2011 which includes visual tribute screens and webcasting facilities. The buildings are of simple, modern design incorporating traditional materials and are on one level, making access easier for all visitors. As well as the main chapels, the buildings include an administrative office, Officiants room, public waiting room with toilets and a Chapel of Remembrance in the Willow Chapel. Entrance to the Willow Chapel is under a covered porte-cochere.



Many different faiths and denominations use the facilities, as well as those with no faith, and the chapels and grounds are dedicated, rather than consecrated. We have a range of symbols that can be moved and changed for different faiths and those with no faith.

The Oak Chapel, has underfloor heating, is fully air conditioned and has mono-draft windcatchers, to ensure fresh air circulation. There is seating for 125 people, with standing room for approximately 75 people. There is an outside speaker system so that mourners can stand under the Porte Cochere and follow the service. The chapel has oak wood flooring and a stunning Japanese garden, which is private and can only be seen by those attending services. There is also an architectural water feature outside the main entrance and this can be seen from within the chapel. It also has a unique, coloured glass window designed by Julian Stock, which is entitled 'Aqua'. There are individual seats in a royal blue, which can be moved to accommodate wheelchair users.



The Willow Chapel, which is centrally heated and air conditioned, can seat up to 72 people, with additional standing room for approximately 30 people. There is also an outside speaker system which can be used for larger services. The chapel is designed to impart an air of serenity and simplicity with soft pale yellow walls and timber beams. The entrance route is tiled but the seating area is carpeted in a pale blue. There are individual seats, also in pale blue, which can be moved to accommodate wheelchair users.



Natural light is admitted to the chapel from the roof apex and two specially commissioned stained glass windows.



The catafalque is contained within a central alcove draped in velvet. At an arranged moment during the service, curtains can be closed in front of the coffin but, if requested by the mourners, this may be left open. No movement of the coffin takes place until after the mourners have left the chapel.



On leaving the chapel, mourners exit through the east door, which opens directly onto the paved condolence area and cloistered wreath court, where floral tributes are placed in sheltered alcoves. The alcoves are at waist height enabling cards and flowers to be easily viewed.



Music for services can be provided either by the chapel organ, or from the extensive Wesley Music system, or by families supplying their own CD.



A loop system is available in the main chapel, as well as a wheelchair if required.