The open day, led by managing director Helen Wathall MBE, will feature free guided tours designed to gently demystify the funeral industry and help people better understand what goes on behind closed doors.
During the two-hour event — taking place on Saturday, October 11th, from 10am — visitors will have the opportunity to:
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Explore the newly refurbished mortuary and embalming suite
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Visit the chapels of rest, counselling rooms, and arrangement rooms
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View the funeral vehicles and assembly room
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Watch live demonstrations of funeral floristry and a coffin workshop
There will also be information available on the full range of services offered by Wathall’s, including traditional funerals, cremation services, and bereavement support such as one-to-one counselling and the award-winning Dandelions Bereavement Support group, which provides free monthly meetings to help families navigate their grief journey.
Helen said:
“Since the mid-2000s, we’ve welcomed the public into our premises each year to help make funerals feel less daunting. We had to pause during the Covid pandemic, so we’re especially pleased to reopen our doors this weekend.
“Our aim is to be transparent and supportive. By showing people around and answering their questions, we hope to offer reassurance and understanding about what we do. Our experienced team will be on hand to chat and share insights throughout the morning.”
Visitors can also enjoy a special exhibition of family photographs, letters, and memorabilia collected over 167 years of Wathall’s history — including World War One postcards and drawings of Derby’s first motorised hearse.
Helen added:
“These open days are always so well received. People tell us how valuable it is to learn more about the process and see the care and professionalism involved at every stage. We’re proud to continue this tradition.”
Booking is not essential, but those who register in advance will receive a free goody bag on the day. To sign up, visit Eventbrite.
Event details:
🕙 Saturday, October 11th, from 10am
📍 Wathall’s, 101–111 Macklin Street, Derby