Cheapest Funeral Options in the UK: Save £1,000+

Funerals in the UK can cost £4,000+, but affordable options exist that maintain dignity while saving money. This guide shows you the cheapest funeral options and how to reduce costs significantly.

Key Takeaways

✓Direct cremation: £1,000-£1,800 (cheapest option)
✓Simple cremation with service: £1,800-£2,500
✓Compare quotes to save £1,000+ for the same service
✓Financial help available if you're on benefits

Funeral Cost Options: From Cheapest to Most Expensive

1. Direct Cremation

CHEAPEST

£1,000 - £1,800

No service at the crematorium. The deceased is collected, cremated without mourners present, and ashes returned to the family. You can hold a memorial service separately at your own pace.

✓ What's Included:

• Collection of deceased
• Simple coffin
• Cremation without service
• Return of ashes

Who It's For:

• Budget-conscious families
• Those wanting simple arrangements
• Families preferring separate memorial

2. Simple Cremation with Service

£1,800 - £2,500

Basic attended cremation with a short service at the crematorium (typically 20-30 minutes). Family and friends can attend to say goodbye.

✓ What's Included:

• Collection of deceased
• Simple coffin
• Short crematorium service
• Hearse (no limousines)
• Return of ashes

Who It's For:

• Those wanting a modest service
• Small gatherings (10-30 people)
• Families on a tight budget

3. Standard Cremation

£3,500 - £4,200

Traditional cremation service with more options: better coffin, longer service time, limousines, flowers, and wake.

4. Standard Burial

£4,000 - £5,500

Traditional burial including plot purchase (£1,000-£5,000), service, and funeral director fees.

💡 Save £1,000+ By Comparing Prices

Funeral costs vary dramatically between providers—even for identical services. Get quotes from 3 funeral directors to find the best value.

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Ways to Reduce Funeral Costs

1. Skip the Limousines

Save: £150-£300

Family can drive their own cars to the funeral. The hearse is usually still needed for the deceased, but limousines are optional.

2. Choose a Simple Coffin

Save: £200-£2,000

Veneer or pine coffins work just as well as solid oak. Some families choose cardboard or wicker coffins (eco-friendly and much cheaper).

3. Limit Flowers

Save: £100-£400

Request "family flowers only" or ask for charitable donations instead. A simple spray from family is enough.

4. DIY Order of Service

Save: £50-£150

Design and print at home or use an online template. Much cheaper than professional printing.

5. Hold Wake at Home

Save: £200-£1,000

Instead of hiring a venue, host the wake at home or ask a friend/ family member. Provide simple refreshments rather than catered food.

6. Compare Funeral Directors

Save: £500-£1,500

Get quotes from 3+ funeral directors. Prices vary hugely—even in the same town—for the exact same service.

Financial Help Available

If you're struggling to pay for a funeral, these sources of financial help may be available:

Funeral Expenses Payment

If you're on certain benefits (Universal Credit, Income Support, etc.) and arranging the funeral, you can apply for a Funeral Expenses Payment from the government.

• Covers: Burial/cremation fees, travel, death certificate, up to £1,000 for other costs
• Doesn't cover: Flowers, headstones, wake costs
• Apply online via GOV.UK within 6 months of the funeral

Bereavement Support Payment

If your partner died and you were under State Pension age, you may qualify for Bereavement Support Payment (£2,500 upfront + monthly payments for 18 months).

Apply online via GOV.UK.

Pay from the Deceased's Estate

If the deceased had savings or assets, you can often access funds to pay for the funeral before probate. Banks will usually release money for funeral costs with proof (funeral director invoice).

Payment Plans

Many funeral directors offer payment plans (monthly instalments). Ask about this when getting quotes.

Public Health Funeral

If absolutely no one can pay, the local council will arrange a basic "public health funeral" (also called pauper's funeral). This is a simple, dignified cremation or burial.

The council may try to recover costs from the deceased's estate later.

Regional Price Variations

Funeral costs vary by location. Here's a rough guide to average direct cremation costs across the UK:

Region	Direct Cremation	Simple Service
London	£1,400-£2,000	£2,200-£3,000
South East	£1,200-£1,800	£2,000-£2,600
North West	£1,000-£1,500	£1,800-£2,400
Scotland	£1,100-£1,600	£1,900-£2,500
Wales	£1,000-£1,400	£1,800-£2,300

These are averages. Individual funeral directors may charge more or less. Always get written quotes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is direct cremation disrespectful?

No. Direct cremation is a personal choice and increasingly popular. Many families hold a meaningful memorial service later, giving them more time to plan and less financial pressure.

Can I still say goodbye with a direct cremation?

Some direct cremation providers offer optional private viewings before cremation (small additional cost). You can also hold a memorial service with the ashes present.

What's the absolute minimum I can spend?

Around £1,000 for a direct cremation from budget providers (Pure Cremation, Simplicity). This includes collection, simple coffin, cremation, and return of ashes—everything legally required.

Are "cheap" funerals lower quality?

Not necessarily. Lower-cost options simply remove extras (fancy coffins, limousines, elaborate services). The care and professionalism remain the same. Check reviews to ensure quality service.

Find the Most Affordable Funeral Director Near You

Compare quotes from 3 local funeral directors instantly. See prices for direct cremation, simple services, and all options—side by side. Free, no obligation, could save you £1,000+.

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Cheapest Funeral Options in the UK