A Gentle & Ecological Farewell, The Story of Somerset Willow Coffins

With so many different types of coffins to choose from, in a variety of materials and styles, you can find the coffin that reflects the personality and tastes for your family funeral.   At AB Walker, we are proud to offer the beautifully handcrafted range of Somerset Willow Coffins, a compassionate and ecological choice that aligns with the values of sustainability, dignity, and gentle remembrance.

You can view the full selection of willow coffins we offer here: Somerset Willow Coffins at AB Walker

A Family Craft, Rooted in Tradition

The story of Somerset Willow Coffins begins in the heart of the Somerset Levels, where willow has been grown and woven for generations. The business began more than 60 years ago, when Edward Hill made his first commercial order scribbled on the back of a playing card packet, a modest start that would lead to one of the UK’s most respected makers of natural coffins.

In 1998, the family crafted their first willow coffin, creating a natural alternative to traditional materials that was immediately welcomed by families seeking something more personal, more human and more environmentally conscious. Today, each coffin is woven by hand using time honoured basket making skills that have been passed down through generations.

Willow, A Natural and Sustainable Material

Willow is a truly exceptional renewable resource. The Somerset Levels provide the perfect environment for its cultivation, with fields known as “beds” planted once every 40 to 50 years. During that time, the willow continually regenerates, allowing repeated harvesting without the need for replanting.

Harvesting takes place between November and March when the withies, the long slender rods of willow, are carefully cut and sorted by hand. Willow is also an excellent carbon sink, naturally capturing CO₂ from the atmosphere and locking it into the soil. This means that choosing a willow coffin can significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with traditional coffin materials.

From Willow Field to Woven Coffin

The creation of a Somerset Willow coffin is a thoughtful, meticulous process where nothing is rushed and every detail is crafted with care.

1. Stripping and drying: After harvesting, the withies are simmered in water which draws out natural tannins, giving the willow its warm buff tones. They are then stripped and left to dry naturally in the open air.
2. Preparing the willow: Before weaving can begin, the willow must be soaked so that it becomes soft and flexible. This ensures a smooth and even weave.
3. The weaving process: Each coffin starts with a solid wooden base. Upright willow stakes are added, and the weavers build the coffin gradually using traditional techniques such as staking up, wale weaving and randing. Coloured bands, natural dyes and personalised features can be incorporated at this stage. Handles are woven from willow too, ensuring the coffin remains fully biodegradable.
4. Finishing touches: Every coffin is lined with natural calico cotton, complete with a pillow and sheet. The lid is secured using wooden toggles and loops, avoiding metal fixings entirely. Families may also choose an engraved oak nameplate to add a personal touch.

Why Families Choose a Willow Coffin

Somerset Willow Coffins are chosen not only for their beauty but also for the values they represent.

They are:

• Environmentally responsible, made entirely of natural, biodegradable materials
• Low carbon, using significantly less energy to produce compared to particleboard coffins
• Renewable, as willow regrows rapidly, reaching the same height within a year
• Supportive of wildlife, with willow beds helping to sustain wetland biodiversity
• Personal and adaptable, with options for shapes, colours and handmade detail

Many families also appreciate the gentle, organic appearance of willow, which offers a comforting and peaceful aesthetic. You can explore the willow options available at AB Walker, including traditional and curved designs, here Explore Willow Coffins.

A Beautiful, Gentle Choice Through AB Walker

At AB Walker, we understand that choosing a coffin is a deeply personal part of arranging a funeral. For many families, a willow coffin feels like a fitting tribute, symbolising natural beauty, renewal and a lighter touch on the earth.

Our team is here to guide you with sensitivity and care. If you would like to talk through the willow coffin options we provide, or explore whether a natural coffin is suitable for your chosen type of funeral, we welcome you to get in touch.

You can contact our supportive team here: Get in Touch with AB Walker

Choosing a Somerset Willow Coffin is more than selecting a practical item, it is choosing a farewell that reflects love, thoughtfulness and a deep respect for the world we leave behind.