Burslem Memorials was originally known as A. Burslem & Son. The company first worked on sandstone houses and churches across Kent and East Sussex.
Memorial work later became central to the business. Today, Burslem designs, crafts, installs and restores memorials, headstones, war memorials, and public monuments. The team works across Kent, East Sussex, Surrey and other areas where the project is suitable.
Burslem began as a practical stoneworking business. Its early work included the construction and stonework of sandstone buildings and churches within the local area.
This foundation developed the understanding of natural stone, cutting, shaping, and lettering that would later support the company’s work as memorial masons.
Following the First World War, there was a substantial need for individual and public memorials at home and abroad. Burslem helped meet that need, including the hand carving and engraving of individual memorials in Portland Stone.
The methods used in memorial masonry have developed considerably since Burslem was founded.
Traditional hand cutting remains important for fine lettering, detailed carving and matching older inscriptions. The workshop also uses CNC machining and sandblasting where these methods are better suited to the stone, design or finish.
The location of the memorial affects what type of stone and finish will work best.
Granite, slate, limestone and sandstone all behave differently outdoors. Some remain sharper in appearance, while others weather more softly.
Our BRAMM accreditation gives added reassurance that the memorial is made and fitted with proper care.
The value of Burslem’s history lies in the knowledge retained through the work.
Older memorials may require an inscription to be matched many years later. Stone can weather differently according to its material, finish, and location. Restoration work may require an understanding of the original construction and lettering method.
Burslem remains an independent firm of long-established memorial masons, working from its showroom and workshop in Frant, East Sussex.
Design, stone preparation, lettering, carving, permits, installation and later work are managed by the Burslem team. Our company is fully accredited by BRAMM, the British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons.
Current work includes new memorials, additional inscriptions, restoration, and public monuments.
To speak with Burslem Memorials about a new or existing memorial, call 01892 750120 or email enquiries@burslem.co.uk.
You are also welcome to visit our showroom by appointment.
