How to Arrange a Funeral UK: 7-Day Timeline (Don't Overpay!)

Arranging a funeral can feel overwhelming, especially while grieving. This guide walks you through each step clearly and practically, helping you make informed decisions during a difficult time. If you're just starting with death admin, see our complete guide to what to do when someone dies.

Quick Overview

✓Typical timeline: 2-3 weeks from death to funeral
✓Average cost: £3,800-£4,200 (varies by region)
✓You'll need: death certificate, burial/cremation certificate
✓Compare quotes from at least 3 funeral directors

Step 1: Contact Funeral Directors

The first practical step is choosing a funeral director. You don't need to rush this decision—most funeral directors can arrange a funeral within 2-3 weeks, giving you time to compare options.

What to Look For

Transparent Pricing

Ask for a detailed, itemized quote showing all costs upfront. Avoid vague estimates.

Good Reviews

Check Google reviews and recommendations from people you trust.

Availability

Can they accommodate your preferred date and time? Are they flexible?

Clear Communication

Do they explain the process clearly and answer your questions patiently?

💡 Save Time & Money: Compare Funeral Directors

Prices can vary by £1,000+ for the same service. Getting quotes from 3 local funeral directors helps you find the best value and ensures you're making an informed choice.

Compare 3 Funeral Directors Near You →

Questions to Ask Funeral Directors

→What's included in your basic funeral package? What costs extra?
→Can you provide an itemized written quote before I commit?
→How soon can you arrange the funeral?
→Do you offer payment plans or help with funeral costs?
→Can I supply my own coffin or use alternative options?
→What happens if I want to change arrangements later?

Step 2: Decide on Burial or Cremation

This decision affects cost, location options, and planning. Consider any wishes left by the deceased, your family's preferences, and practical factors.

Burial

Traditional burial in a cemetery or churchyard.

Cost: £4,000-£5,500 (includes plot purchase)

Timeline: Usually 2-3 weeks

Considerations: Need to purchase or have existing burial plot. Ongoing grave maintenance fees may apply.

Cremation

Cremation followed by return of ashes to family.

Cost: £3,500-£4,200 (typically less than burial)

Timeline: 1-2 weeks

Considerations: Ashes can be scattered, buried, or kept. More flexibility with memorial timing.

Alternative: Direct Cremation

A simple, unattended cremation with no service at the crematorium. Family can hold a memorial service separately. Cost: £1,000-£1,800 (significantly cheaper). Growing in popularity for those wanting a simple, affordable option. See our guide to the cheapest funeral options.

Step 3: Choose the Type of Service

The service can be religious, non-religious (humanist), or a hybrid. It can take place at a church, crematorium, cemetery, or other venue.

Religious Service

Traditional service led by a minister, priest, or religious leader. Usually includes prayers, hymns, and religious readings. Cost: £200-£400 for celebrant fees.

Humanist/Non-Religious Service

Personalized ceremony celebrating the person's life without religious elements. Led by a celebrant who works with the family. Cost: £200-£350 for celebrant fees.

No Service (Direct Cremation)

Cremation without a ceremony. Family can arrange a separate memorial later. Cost: Much lower (£1,000-£1,800 total).

Step 4: Book Date, Time, and Venue

Once you've chosen a funeral director and decided on burial or cremation, you'll need to book the date and venue.

Timeline Considerations

→Typical wait: 2-3 weeks from death to funeral (allows time for planning)
→Venue availability: Crematoriums and churches may have limited slots
→Family schedules: Coordinate with relatives traveling from distance
→Religious considerations: Some faiths require burial within specific timeframes

Venue Options

Crematorium: Most have chapels for services before cremation. Slots typically 30-45 minutes.

Church or place of worship: For religious services, followed by burial or cremation.

Cemetery chapel: On-site chapel at burial grounds.

Other venues: Hotels, community halls, or outdoor locations (for memorial services).

Step 5: Plan the Details

Once the main arrangements are confirmed, you'll work with the funeral director on the finer details.

Coffin/Casket

Choose material (wood, wicker, cardboard) and style. Simple options: £200-£500. Premium: £1,000-£3,000+.

Flowers

Family flowers, tributes, or request donations instead. Cost: £150-£500 depending on arrangements.

Order of Service

Printed booklets for attendees. Include photo, readings, hymns. Cost: £50-£200 for 50-100 copies.

Music

Choose entrance, exit, and reflection music. Can be recorded or live. Venue may have restrictions.

Transport

Hearse for deceased, limousines for family. Typically included in funeral director package.

Wake/Reception

Gathering after funeral. Can be at home, pub, hotel, or community hall. Budget for venue and catering.

Cost Breakdown

Understanding funeral costs helps you make informed choices and avoid unexpected expenses.

Item	Typical Cost
Funeral director fees	£1,500-£3,000
Cremation fee	£800-£1,000
OR Burial plot (new purchase)	£1,000-£5,000
Celebrant/minister fee	£200-£400
Flowers	£150-£500
Order of service printing	£50-£200
Wake venue and catering	£400-£1,500
Total (Cremation)	£3,500-£4,200
Total (Burial)	£4,000-£5,500

💡 Money-Saving Tip

Comparing quotes from different funeral directors can save you £1,000 or more. Prices vary significantly even in the same area, so it pays to shop around.

Documents You'll Need

Before arranging the funeral, make sure you have these documents:

✓Medical certificate of cause of death (from doctor or coroner)
✓Death certificate (issued by registrar after registering the death)
✓Certificate for burial or cremation (green form from registrar)
✓Cremation forms (if cremation - completed by two doctors)
✓Burial rights (if using an existing family grave)

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon do I need to arrange the funeral?

There's no legal deadline, but most funerals take place 2-3 weeks after death. This allows time for planning and for family to arrange travel. Some faiths require burial within specific timeframes (e.g., Muslim and Jewish burials are typically within 24-48 hours).

Can I arrange a funeral without a funeral director?

Yes, it's legal to arrange a DIY funeral in the UK. You'll need to handle transport, paperwork, and booking venues yourself. This can save money but requires time and organization. Most families use a funeral director for practical and emotional support.

What if I can't afford the funeral?

You may qualify for a Funeral Expenses Payment (if on certain benefits) or ask about payment plans from funeral directors. You can also choose a more affordable option like direct cremation (£1,000-£1,800) or a simple funeral. The local council can arrange a basic funeral if no one else can.

Do I need to choose a local funeral director?

Not necessarily, but it's usually more convenient. A local funeral director knows the area's crematoriums, cemeteries, and celebrants. However, some national funeral directors offer competitive pricing, especially for direct cremations.

Ready to Compare Funeral Directors?

Get itemized quotes from 3 trusted local funeral directors. Compare prices, services, and availability to find the right fit for your family.

Get Free Quotes →

How to Arrange a Funeral in the UK