A direct cremation means there is no hearse, pallbearers or ceremony at the crematorium. We collect the deceased from any location within mainland Great Britain and bring them into our care. The cremation takes place at our trusted partner crematorium and we let the family know the date and time of the cremation so they can do something special at home. The ashes are then hand delivered to family or they can be scattered at the crematorium's garden of remembrance.
Family are then free to gather for a more unique and personal send-off.
How does our direct cremation work?
Contact
We can provide urgent care 24 hours a day. If you prefer, you can call us in advance to provide some basic information, so when the time comes there is less for you to worry about.
Collection
We will collect the deceased from anywhere within mainland Great Britain* and take care of them at our mortuary facilities. This includes suitable transport to the crematorium for cremation.
Cremation
We take care of everything including the removal of artificial devices such as a pacemaker and handling of paperwork. The direct cremation will take place at our trusted partner crematorium and we'll let you know the date and time it will take place.
Ashes
We contact the family within 21 days of the cremation date to arrange the hand return of the ashes at a suitable time, anywhere in mainland Great Britain*. Alternatively, we can scatter the ashes at the crematorium's garden of remembrance.
Celebration
You are free to gather the people that matter, at a time that suits everyone, to celebrate the life of your loved one.
How are the ashes returned after a direct cremation?
If you choose our direct cremation with the return of ashes, our specialist team will call you to organise a suitable time to deliver the ashes within 21 days of the cremation.
The ashes are contained in a beautiful biodegradable scattering pod that you can use to scatter the ashes in a special location, or you can bury the whole pod directly into the ground.
We don't use a courier or postal service, the team at Celebration of Life will return the ashes to you directly by hand.
Here when you need us
From the moment you call to the hand delivery of ashes, our friendly in-house team are here for you every step of the way.
Speak to our team todayOur business is based on the delivery of first class customer service
How much is our direct cremation for someone who has passed away?
Extras you may need or wish to add
Ashes returned by hand £100
Urgent collection £295
Over 20st £300
Are you looking to pay in advance, ready for the future?
Paying ahead of time requires a prepaid plan and will cost more than if you needed to arrange a cremation for someone who has recently passed away.
Our prepaid plan is fully inclusive and once paid, is fixed and guaranteed.
Talk to us about our
direct cremation today
To arrange a cremation for someone who has passed away
Lines are open 24 hours a day
General enquiries - opening hours:
8am - 6pm, 7 days a week
Are you planning ahead for the future?
A tree planted in memory
Celebration of Life™ donate to plant a tree with the National Trust 'Plant a Tree Fund' for every service we do. A certificate is provided in memory of your loved one.
Frequently asked questions about our direct cremation
What is the difference between a direct cremation and a standard funeral?
Can I attend the service with a direct cremation?
How much is a direct cremation?
Can I pay in advance for a direct cremation?
For information on what to do when someone dies, take a look at our step by step guide.
Speak to our team today
Call us free on
0800 150 3555