Choosing a memorial plaque for a loved one is one of the most personal and emotional decisions you can make. It’s more than just a marker — it’s a tribute that reflects their story, their values, and their place in your heart.
At Honister Slate Mine, we honor this idea with our personalized memorial plaques. They are made from the best Westmorland green slate, right in the Lake District.
Why Memorial Plaques Matter
Gravestone plaques serve as a permanent reminder of the life lived and the legacy left behind. A personalized plaque for a grave is a special way to show remembrance. You can place it in a cemetery, a garden, or a family plot.
They can feature a loved one’s name, dates, quotes, symbols, or even poems — all engraved with care and precision.
The Beauty of Slate Memorial Plaques
Not all memorials are created equal. Our slate memorial plaques are a cut above the rest, quite literally. Mined and handcrafted at Honister Pass, our plaques are made using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
Why choose slate for the memorial?
Durability: Slate is naturally frost-resistant and doesn’t promote moss growth. Your headstone plaque will stay legible and beautiful for decades to come.
Timeless appearance: The subtle green hue of Lake District slate gives each plaque a unique and calming look — perfect for a peaceful resting place.
Versatility: Whether you want a personalised slate plaque for a cemetery or a memorial slate for your garden, we offer a variety of sizes and design options.
Personalisation That Reflects a Life Well Lived
No two people are the same, and no two memorials should be either. That’s why we offer full customisation on all our personalised memorial plaques and personalised remembrance plaques.
You can choose:
- The shape and size of the plaque
- The font and style of the inscription
- White or natural engraving finishes
- Optional symbols, motifs or emblems
We also provide digital mock-ups to help you gain cemetery or churchyard approval if required.
Thoughtful Guidance Every Step of the Way
We understand that choosing and designing a personalized grave plaque can be hard, especially during tough times. Our expert team is here to guide you through each stage — from choosing materials to crafting a heartfelt inscription.
Popular wording options include:
“In loving memory of...”
“Forever in our hearts”
Bible verses, poems, or custom messages that reflect your loved one’s life
We’ll make sure your message is both respectful and compliant with local regulations.
Honister Slate – A Connection to the Lake District
Many families choose a slate plaque from Honister Slate Mine because it connects their loved one with the beauty and stillness of the Lake District. For those who loved this part of the world, a memorial made from local stone is a great tribute.
Caring for Your Slate Plaque
Maintaining a memorial slate plaque is remarkably easy. All plaques are treated with a sealant for weather resistance. Just wipe it with a clean cloth now and then. This will help keep its look, even in coastal or exposed environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What should I write on a memorial plaque?
Choosing the right wording can be one of the most emotional parts of creating a memorial. It’s important to keep it timeless and meaningful. Many people include a name, dates, a short message, and perhaps a quote or verse that reflects the loved one’s personality or beliefs. Phrases like “In Loving Memory,” “Forever in Our Hearts,” and “Rest in Peace” are common. We can also help create more personal inscriptions if you want something special.
- Can you put a memorial plaque anywhere?
Not quite. If you want to place the plaque in a cemetery or churchyard, you usually need approval. This approval comes from the local authority or parish council. They often have specific rules about size, material, and inscription. However, if it’s for private land — such as a garden or family estate — then you have more flexibility. We suggest checking with the right authorities before installation.
- Where can I put a memorial plaque?
Memorial plaques can be placed in a number of locations, depending on personal preference and permission:
-On a gravestone or headstone in a cemetery
- In a memorial garden
- On a bench, tree, or wall in remembrance areas
- In your own garden or outdoor space
We’re happy to advise on the best format depending on where the plaque will be located.
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