Choosing the right headstone is an important part of commemorating a loved one. While every memorial should feel personal, many families start by considering the different types of headstones available — each with its own look, meaning and practical considerations.
At Northern Headstones, we offer a wide range of headstone styles, all handmade by experienced stonemasons and installed with care. Whether you’re looking for a traditional upright stone, a heart-shaped design, or a full kerb set, we can help you find the right option.
Upright Headstones
Upright headstones are the most common and widely recognised memorial type. They typically consist of a tall tablet attached to a base and are suitable for most cemetery or churchyard settings.
Benefits of upright headstones:
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Available in a wide range of shapes and sizes
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Suitable for single or double inscriptions
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Easy to read and maintain
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Allow space for personalisation and symbolism
Our Angel Headstones, Heart Headstones and Book Headstones are all examples of upright styles, each offering a distinctive way to commemorate a loved one.
Book Headstones
Book headstones are shaped to resemble an open book and are often chosen for their symbolism. For some, the open pages reflect the story of life; for others, the design may represent faith or a shared memory between two people.
We offer a variety of Book Headstones in polished granite, many with carved tassels or additional detailing. They’re suitable for single or joint memorials and can include inscriptions across both pages.
Heart Headstones
Heart-shaped headstones are a popular choice for families who want to express love and connection in a visual way. They can be used for individual or companion memorials and are often selected for children or close family members.
Our Heart Headstones range includes single and double heart designs, some with carved angels or floral details. This style offers both emotional resonance and visual distinction.
To explore more, visit our related blog on Heart Headstones and What They Symbolise.
Kerb Set Memorials
Kerb memorials feature a low border that surrounds the entire grave, forming a defined area for decoration or personalisation. This style is often used in traditional cemeteries and can include decorative stone chippings, flower containers or cover slabs.
Benefits of Kerb Memorials:
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Larger surface area for decoration and personalisation
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Suitable for family plots or joint memorials
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Offers a distinctive and permanent appearance
Kerb sets require cemetery approval and additional foundation work, but they provide a meaningful and structured way to present a tribute.
Other Styles and Bespoke Designs
In addition to our core headstone styles, we also offer:
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Rustic and natural finishes, including boulder and sandstone options
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Bespoke Memorials, fully custom-designed from drawings or photographs
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Islamic Headstones, created with appropriate symbols and orientation
You can learn more about these through our Bespoke Memorials service or explore our range of unique carvings, including angels, roses, butterflies and more.
Choosing the Right Headstone
The type of headstone you choose depends on many factors, including cemetery regulations, personal taste and the memory you wish to honour. At Northern Headstones, we’re here to guide you through the options with clear, respectful advice and a commitment to quality.
Every headstone we make is:
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Handmade by skilled stonemasons
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Installed on foundations over twice the industry standard
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Fully customisable in terms of shape, inscription and detailing
To explore the full range, visit our Memorials page or browse our blog for more guidance on choosing the right style for your needs.
