A six-foot-high barrow has risen from the ground on the outskirts of Calverton, marking the first time such an ancient structure has been built in the Midlands in centuries. The burial mound, created by award-winning family funeral business A.W. Lymn, is the first of three new barrows being constructed by specialised design and build company Sacred Stones at the brand-new Nottinghamshire Memorial Park off George's Lane.
First ancient barrows site in the Midlands
The 27-acre location is the Midlands' first ancient barrows site. Once open by April 2027, the structures will have the capacity to contain more than 800 niches for the ashes of loved ones. This is the first-ever family-owned cemetery and barrows site for A.W. Lymn.
A public open day will take place on Saturday, October 10, 2026, allowing visitors to explore the man-made burial mounds inside and out. According to recent funeral choice data, an attended cremation is the most popular type of funeral at 53%. Meanwhile, 21% of people describe the funeral they organised as a direct cremation, up 1% on the previous year. The site is being built with these choices in mind, offering a place to commemorate, celebrate and mark a loved one's life after receiving their ashes.
Managing director highlights ancient traditions for modern times
Matthew Lymn Rose, managing director and fifth generation at A.W. Lymn, commented: “This is an exciting first for the Midlands and I speak on behalf of all at A.W. Lymn when I say we are proud and excited to see the first Barrow rise out of the ground.”
He added: “We can’t wait to welcome the public on site for a preview in October for the first time to witness these majestic structures. A lot of thought and hard work has gone into creating something which will reintroduce ancient traditions into the 21st Century. It is a unique nod to times gone by and we hope the site will create a beautiful, community-inspired way to celebrate a life well lived.”
Alternative funeral options gaining popularity
Rose further stated: “Visitors can expect to witness and explore the remarkable man-made burial mounds inside and out. People are increasingly informed about funeral options and feel more confident exploring alternatives. With more families choosing to draw on their own experiences of funerals, both traditional and bespoke, many want a funeral that reflects their values, beliefs and budget, rather than a standard package. We know being bold and re-creating something from ancient times will be a popular choice for many who are looking for a special way to commemorate their loved ones, it is important to look ahead, but also reflect on traditions of the past.”
The business is already welcoming enquiries for niches and has sold several to people looking for an alternative to scattering ashes or keeping them in an urn at home. Established in Nottingham in 1907, A.W. Lymn operates 36 funeral homes across the region. Having recently acquired M.A. Mills and Gillotts Funeral Directors, alongside expanding into Leicestershire, the independent firm provides options ranging from direct cremation to traditional funerals across all faith and non-faith settings.
