Direct Cremation
A direct cremation is a simple funeral option without a service or mourners present at the crematorium. It is chosen by some families for its simplicity, privacy, or lower cost, and can be followed by a separate memorial or celebration of life at a later date.
At a glance
- No service at the crematorium and no mourners attend.
- The cremation takes place at a time arranged by the funeral director.
- Ashes are returned to you afterwards.
- You can still hold a memorial or celebration of life separately.
Our Direct Cremation prices
We offer clear, low local prices for a simple unattended cremation, with no unnecessary long-distance transfer. Our fee depends on where the death occurs:
- £850 — for deaths in hospital or where there is a mortuary and we can book an appointment to collect the deceased.
- £1,150 — for deaths at home, in a hospice, or in a nursing/care home.
We will confirm the price with you before you proceed and explain exactly what is included.
How our prices compare
Many national direct cremation providers advertise higher “from” prices for an unattended cremation. The examples below are their published prices at the time of writing (prices and terms can change).
| Provider | Advertised price | How we compare |
|---|---|---|
| Co-op Funeralcare | £1,445 | Up to £595 less than Co-op (vs £850) |
| Pure Cremation | £1,495 | Up to £645 less than Pure (vs £850) |
| Farewill (Funerals) | From £1,095 | Up to £245 less than Farewill (vs £850) |
| Memoria Direct Cremation | £1,145 | Up to £295 less than Memoria (vs £850) |
| Simplicity | From £1,149 | Up to £299 less than Simplicity (vs £850) |
Providers’ published prices may be “from” prices and may vary by location, timing, or what is included. Please check the provider’s own website for current details.
Keeping things local
With national providers, the deceased is often transferred to a central care facility and the cremation may take place a significant distance away from where the person lived. As a local provider, we keep arrangements in Leicestershire, avoiding unnecessary long-distance transfers whilst providing support closer to home, from an independent funeral director.
What is a direct cremation?
With a direct cremation, there is no funeral service at the crematorium. The cremation takes place privately at a time arranged by us, and the ashes are returned to you afterwards. This option gives families the flexibility to remember their loved one in their own way and at a time that feels right for them.
Why some people choose a direct cremation
- a wish for a simple and uncomplicated arrangement
- personal, cultural, or philosophical preferences
- the flexibility to hold a memorial or celebration later
- cost considerations
- instructions left by the deceased
There is no “right” or “wrong” choice — what matters most is that the arrangements reflect the wishes of the deceased and their family.
What our direct cremation service includes
Our direct cremation service typically includes:
- professional guidance and administration
- collection and care of the deceased
- provision of a simple coffin
- transportation to the crematorium
- cremation arranged at a suitable time
- return of the ashes to you
We will explain clearly what is included and answer any questions before arrangements are confirmed.
What is not included
Because there is no attended service, the following are not usually included:
- a funeral ceremony at the crematorium
- mourners attending the cremation
- limousines or a funeral cortege
- officiant, minister, or celebrant fees
- flowers or music at the crematorium
If you would like additional elements or a different arrangement, we can advise on alternatives.
Memorials and celebrations of life
Many families choose to hold a private gathering, a memorial service, or a celebration of life. This can take place anywhere you choose — such as a place of worship, a family home, or another meaningful location — and can be arranged before or after the ashes are returned.
We are happy to offer guidance if you would like help planning a memorial event.
Is direct cremation right for everyone?
Direct cremation suits some families very well, but others prefer the structure and shared experience of a traditional funeral service. If you are unsure, we encourage you to talk things through with us so you can make an informed decision without pressure.
Questions people often ask
How long does a direct cremation take to arrange?
Timescales can vary depending on paperwork and availability at the crematorium. We will explain the expected timeframe and keep you updated throughout.
When will the ashes be returned?
Ashes are usually available a short time after the cremation, once the crematorium has completed their process. We will advise you of the likely timescale and arrange collection or delivery.
Can we still have a service later?
Yes. Many families choose a memorial service or celebration of life at a later date, either with or without the ashes present. We can offer guidance if you would like help planning this.
Are we still able to visit a loved one with a direct cremation?
Yes, this can still be arranged.
Your loved one will be cared for with dignity and can be dressed in a simple funeral gown, or in their own clothes if you wish to provide them.
Viewing is not usually included as part of a direct cremation service, as there is no formal funeral beforehand. However, if spending time with your loved one is important to you, please let us know. A private visit can often be arranged in our Chapels of Rest for a small additional fee.
Can we personalise anything with a direct cremation?
Although the cremation itself is unattended, you can still personalise how you remember your loved one — for example through a memorial gathering, music, readings, photographs, or a meaningful venue.
Is direct cremation always the cheapest option?
It is typically lower cost than an attended funeral service, but the overall cost depends on what is included and any additional choices you make. We will provide a clear written estimate before you decide.
If you would like to discuss direct cremation, please contact us.
We will explain the options clearly, answer your questions, and support you at your own pace. Our service is available 24 hours a day, and there is no obligation to proceed.
Prices, inclusions and timescales will be explained in advance. Certain third‑party fees may apply depending on circumstances. If you are unsure what is included, please ask and we will clarify everything clearly.