The open day took place at the site in Kingsdown and combined community activities with moments of quiet contemplation.
Visitors were invited to explore the grounds and facilities, with stalls and a Wiltshire Treehouse picnic forming part of the programme.
A memorial service was led by Rev Geoff Gleed, who spoke about how funerals at the crematorium have evolved over the past six decades.
He reflected on earlier services being largely uniform, centred on hymns and prayers with limited personalisation. He said modern services now allow families to create more individual tributes, whether faith-based or not, including personal music and photo displays.
Archive photographs and historic film footage were also shared during the event. This included scenes from the crematorium’s original opening by the then Deputy Mayor, offering an insight into its history in Swindon.
Steph Hobbs from Swindon SANDS delivered a reading during the service. Singing from Eloise Murby accompanied the lighting of candles in remembrance.
For some, the event provided an opportunity to remember loved ones whose funerals they were unable to attend during the Covid-19 pandemic.
A tree was planted to mark the anniversary, followed by a dove release. Visitors were also encouraged to bring teddy bears, which will be donated to bereaved children.
Mayor of Swindon Fay Howard attended the event. She said:
“I was honoured to be part of such a meaningful occasion. Events like this remind us not only of the importance of remembrance, but also of how spaces like Kingsdown Crematorium have adapted to better reflect the lives of those we have lost. It was moving to see the community come together in such a thoughtful and compassionate way.”
Organisers said the aim was to create a welcoming and family-friendly environment, helping to demystify the role of the crematorium and encourage greater understanding of a place often associated with grief.
Many attendees said they appreciated the chance to engage with the space in a different way and recognised the care taken to mark the milestone.
