Burial

Choosing a final resting place for your loved one

If burial is your preferred choice you can advise us whether this will be a new or existing grave. For new graves the main decision is which cemetery to choose. If you do not already have a family grave we can advise where new graves are available, either in a church or council cemetery or a woodland burial site. Whichever you choose, your funeral director can advise you on the cost of purchasing ground and interment.

Watch our family’s guide to the day of a burial. The order of events is a guide to help anyone arranging a funeral. Depending on the restrictions at the time, limits to attendees, social distancing and masks may be required. Your funeral director will be on hand to carry out any particular wishes you have, both before and on the day, working within the relevant guidelines.

Council cemeteries

Not all UK council cemeteries have room for further burials as ground is very limited. Where pre-purchase is possible, some councils may allocate specific plots at the time of need only. Please be aware that in all these areas, out-of-area surcharges may apply for people living out-with council boundaries.

Private cemeteries

Most privately owned cemeteries or churchyards with space allow graves or lairs to be purchased in advance.

Woodland cemeteries

A woodland cemetery can provide an alternative resting place in a beautiful setting. Often in these types of cemeteries there isn't a traditional headstone, but instead the grave will be marked with a tree, or a boulder, or some small visible marker that blends into the surroundings.

Private Land

It is possible to be buried on your own private land although you would need to seek the appropriate permissions to allow you to do this. If this is something you would like to consider then contact us and we can discuss what is required.

Arrange a Funeral FAQs

Is there a cost difference between a burial and cremation?

The choice varies depending on which part of the country you live in. Urban areas have good access to crematoria but burial ground spaces are increasingly limited. Conversely, rural areas have plenty ground but are further away from crematoria. The costs vary between the regions so call us to find out what the options are for your area of choice.

With family in many countries, can we arrange a small private funeral now and have a larger celebration of life on a different date - and can you help with both arrangements?

We can assist with all elements of event planning for a funeral including celebrations after - whether they are on the same day or at later date. Whether you want a simple tribute or an extravagant memorial event, we're here to help you and your loved ones.

Are we limited to the number of cars?

You can have as many cars as you like. Our fleet of limousines can be fitted with screens to comply with any social distancing restrictions set by the Government which will continually evolve. We can arrange as many cars, and even arrange alternative transport from luxury coaches to more individual alternatives should you require it.

I am worried about thanking everyone who attends...

We can help. As there are limits on who can attend a funeral, we offer online obituaries where people can leave online tributes and messages of condolence. You can provide details about the funeral before or add messages of thanks after and then link from your own social media. In the future, when larger numbers are once again allowed, we can provide attendance cards for mourners to sign or leave a message of condolence. We collate them for you after the funeral so you can focus on saying goodbye.

How long should we keep the ashes?

There's no right or wrong answer. Retaining ashes is a very personal thing. Some people want to scatter them at a later date, others can't bear to part with them. We can help by providing practical storage advice and guiding you to make the decision that is most fitting for you and your family.

Can we take the flowers home after the funeral?

You can keep or leave, all or part, of any tribute just as you please. Often a memento is taken by family members or sometimes sprays can be left at the graveside. There is no "rule".