Direct cremations are growing in popularity in the UK. Until relatively recently, most of us had probably never heard of the concept. But since the pop icon David Bowie opted for a direct cremation in 2016, it is becoming increasingly familiar, and the topic of many daytime TV ads.

But what exactly is a direct cremation? Are there any advantages to a direct cremation rather than a more traditional cremation? How do the costs compare? And how would you go about organising a direct cremation if you sadly lose a loved one?

In this article we answer those questions and tell you all you need to know about direct cremations.

What is a direct cremation? 

A direct cremation is an unattended cremation where the body is cremated without mourners being present and with no accompanying funeral service.

After the cremation, the ashes of the deceased are returned to their family for them to do with as they choose.

What are the advantages of a direct cremation?

Some may feel a little uncomfortable with the concept of a direct cremation, perhaps feeling that it isn’t respectful of their loved one’s body, or is not enough of a “send off” for them. And others may have deeply held religious beliefs that determine a different kind of process when a loved one dies.

However, there is a growing acceptance of direct cremations in the UK, and many people are beginning to choose direct cremations when making decisions after the death of a family member or friend. Some of the advantages that direct cremations can offer are:

• A direct cremation removes the pressure of having to make difficult and emotional decisions in the immediate aftermath of someone’s death. There is an element of time pressure to dispose of the body, and a direct cremation avoids the family having to plan a fitting farewell service under that same time pressure.

• A direct cremation separates the practical need to dispose of the body from the significant need to have a meaningful celebration of the life of the deceased. It enables the family to organise a more personal memorial service, celebration and/or ash scattering in their own time. It also gives more opportunity for family and friends far and wide to travel and be involved in the celebration of life.

• Separating the cremation from the celebration completely opens up the kind of celebration of life that can be chosen. It does not have to be any kind of formal service or gathering. It could be a private memorial at home or in another meaningful location such as a favourite countryside or seaside spot. It could even be something less conventional such as a pub gathering, charity walk, or garden party.

• A direct cremation is also an eco-friendly option. And if this mattered to the deceased person, it is a kind option to consider. Direct cremation usually has a lower environmental impact than an attended cremation. For example it avoids the use of traditional burial materials and embalming, and reduces fuel consumption from transporting the body, mourners and funeral staff. Families can also choose sustainable ways to honour their loved one, for example biodegradable urns or tree-planting ceremonies.

• Last but not least, a direct cremation is much cheaper than a traditional funeral. Let’s take a look… 

How do the costs compare between a direct and attended cremation?

According to SunLife’s 2024 Cost of Dying Report, the average cost of a simple attended funeral reached an all-time high of £4,285 in 2024. This includes the cost of funeral director fees, cremation fees, a coffin, limousine, and minister or celebrant. However, the average cost of a direct cremation is £1,498.

Whilst cost is not the most important factor when deciding how to say goodbye to a loved one, it can make a lot of sense to choose a cost-effective option for the cremation itself, and spend money on a personalised memorial or perhaps a charitable donation instead.

How would you go about organising a direct cremation?

If you decide that a direct cremation is the option you want to use now for a relative, or perhaps arrange for yourself in future, how would you go about it?

This is where Funerals with Grace can help. We offer a personalised funeral planning service which can help you to find the best arrangements for you at the lowest price. If you need to organise a direct cremation or other type of funeral now, we can do this for you. Or we can help you to put a funeral plan in place for yourself, to cover the cost of your own funeral and ensure that your family will know your preferences when the time comes.

We hope that the information in this article is a useful introduction to direct cremations, and will help you to make the best funeral decisions for you and your loved ones.

And remember, if you need any kind of help with funerals, Funerals with Grace are here to do just that.