What Is the Difference Between a Tombstone and a Headstone?
Understanding the true difference between traditional headstones and kerbed memorial tombs
What Is the Difference Between a Tombstone and a Headstone?
When families begin the process of choosing a memorial for a loved one, one of the first questions they often ask is: what is the difference between a tombstone and a headstone?
Although these terms are frequently used interchangeably, they originally referred to different types of grave markers. Understanding these differences can help you make a more informed decision when selecting a lasting tribute that best reflects your loved one’s life.
The Historical Meaning of a Tombstone
Historically, the term tombstone was used to describe the stone that formed part of a tomb, which could be a raised structure or chamber built above ground. These tombs were often elaborate and ornate and were traditionally used for significant burial monuments or family plots.
In many older churchyards and cemeteries across the UK, you can still see examples of traditional tomb markers that combine horizontal slabs and surrounding stonework — precursors to what we now call kerbed memorials.
What Are Kerbed Memorials?
In modern memorial terminology, what was traditionally known as a tomb or tombstone has evolved into what many families and memorial craftsmen now refer to as a kerbed memorial.
A kerbed memorial typically includes:
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A horizontal slab or ledger
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A surrounding kerb or border
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An upright tablet or headstone
This design creates a unified memorial that outlines and defines the full grave plot area. It offers a dignified and substantial look that can be particularly fitting for family memorials or larger plots.
The Modern Meaning of a Headstone
By contrast, a headstone refers specifically to an upright stone placed at the head of an individual grave.
These are the most common type of memorial used today and are designed to stand on their own without surrounding kerbs or slabs.
Headstones can be personalised with inscriptions, symbols and designs that reflect the personality and legacy of the person they commemorate.
To see examples of traditional upright memorials, visit our headstones page
Why the Terms Are Still Used Interchangeably
In everyday language, many people use the terms tombstone, headstone, gravestone and memorial in different ways. This confusion is understandable, but from a memorial maker’s perspective, it’s useful to be clear:
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Headstones are upright memorial stones
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Kerbed memorials combine kerbs and slabs to create a tomb-style structure
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Tombstone is a historic term that has informed both styles
What matters most today is the style and meaning you want the memorial to convey.
Memorial Options for Burial and Cremation
Modern memorial design offers families a wide range of options. Whether you prefer the elegant simplicity of a traditional headstone or the refined presence of a kerbed memorial, each choice can be personalised to tell your loved one’s story.
For cremation plots, we also offer a dedicated range of headstones for cremation that are designed for smaller spaces, memorial gardens or areas of remembrance.
Choosing the Right Memorial
Selecting a memorial is a deeply personal decision. Size, style, material and inscription all contribute to a tribute that honours a unique life.
At Artisan Memorials, all work is carefully crafted by an experienced stonemason who will guide you through every step with care and expertise.
If you would like assistance or personalised advice, please contact us and we will be pleased to help
We work all over the UK, offering the complete service, from design to installation
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