Help and advice
Plain English guides for difficult times.
Short, practical articles on private cremation, what to do when someone dies, the paperwork, and the choices you may face. Written without jargon — read in your own time.
What is a private cremation?
A private cremation is a simple, dignified cremation without a formal funeral service. It is unattended as standard — ashes are returned to you.
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Private cremation vs direct cremation — what is the difference?
The two terms are often used interchangeably in the UK funeral industry. The key difference is in how the service is described — and how it is delivered.
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How much does a private cremation cost in the UK?
A private cremation typically costs £1,400–£1,800. Our fixed price is £1,499 (or £1,749 with Priority Care collection). Compare against £4,510 average for a traditional funeral.
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Can family attend a private cremation?
As standard, no — a private cremation is unattended. However, because our service is delivered by a real local funeral director, you can ask them to adapt the arrangements for an additional fee.
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What to do when someone dies — a step-by-step guide
A practical guide to the first hours and days after a death — verification, who to call, how to register, and how to arrange a private cremation.
Read guide →Registering a death in England and Wales — a practical guide
Who registers, where, what to bring, what you receive, and what Tell Us Once does. A complete walk-through for families who have never registered a death before.
Read guide →When the coroner is involved — what families should expect
When a death is referred, what the coroner actually does, post-mortems vs inquests, and how it affects the timing of a private cremation.
Read guide →What to do with the ashes — your options after a private cremation
Scattering, burial, keeping at home, memorial jewellery, glass and art. UK legal points and practical considerations for every option.
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