Planning a funeral doesn’t have to mean a formal service, a strict timetable and a bill you’re worried about. Many families now want something simpler, more personal and often greener — but it can be hard to know what’s possible, what’s legal and how much it will actually cost. Whether you need an immediate, low‑stress option or you’re exploring choices that better reflect someone’s beliefs, passions or budget, you deserve clear, practical guidance you can trust.
This guide sets out eight alternative funeral arrangements available in the UK for 2025 — what each option is, how it works, who it suits, typical costs and the key legal and practical notes to be aware of. From direct cremation with Go Direct Cremations to family‑led services, celebrations of life, non‑religious ceremonies, woodland burials, burial at sea, DIY funerals and the current status of water cremation, you’ll find concise, up‑to‑date advice to help you compare and choose with confidence. Read on for straightforward steps, realistic price ranges and simple checklists to make the next decision a little easier.
1. Direct cremation with Go Direct Cremations
What it is
Direct cremation is a simple, unattended cremation with no ceremony at the crematorium. It separates the practical part from any memorial, giving families time and freedom to celebrate a life later. It’s one of the most popular alternative funeral arrangements in the UK.
How it works
Go Direct Cremations handles everything end‑to‑end: 24/7 collection (from any hospital across mainland England, Scotland or Wales), respectful washing and preparation, an eco‑friendly coffin, help with all paperwork, and cremation at a trusted crematorium. Ashes can be scattered in a garden of remembrance or personally delivered in a simple container, depending on your wishes.
Who it’s best for
- Cost‑conscious families: Want dignity without the expense of a full service.
- Low‑fuss preferences: The deceased asked for “no funeral” or minimal formality.
- Those needing flexibility: Time to organise a personalised celebration of life later.
- Environmentally minded: Fewer vehicles, materials and no embalming by default.
- Relatives at a distance: Practical when people can’t attend at short notice.
Typical costs in 2025
SunLife reports the average [direct cremation](https://godirectcremations.co.uk/arrange-a-low-cost-cremation-funeral/) at £1,597 (2024), with some providers advertising from around £1,299, versus a basic funeral at £4,285. Final costs depend on choices and circumstances. Common extras include urgent home/hospice collection, removal of medical devices, a larger coffin, personal ashes delivery, and upgraded urns.
How to arrange in the UK
- Register the death and obtain the necessary forms.
- Contact Go Direct Cremations 24/7 to start arrangements.
- Complete [cremation paperwork](https://godirectcremations.co.uk/how-to-arrange-a-funeral/); agree identification and care.
- Choose your ashes option (scatter or delivery).
- Plan any memorial or celebration of life for a later date.
Legal and practical notes
- No minister or service is required by law for cremation.
- Coroner involvement may affect timings; the team can manage this.
- Pacemakers and certain implants must be removed pre‑cremation.
- Embalming is not required for direct cremation.
- Next of kin/authorised person must provide written consent and instructions for ashes.
2. Family-led funeral (small attended cremation)
What it is
A family-led funeral is a simple attended cremation where the ceremony is designed and delivered by family or friends, not a minister or celebrant. You get a dedicated chapel slot (often 30–60 minutes) to play music, share readings and give a personal eulogy, without a formal cortege or limousines.
How it works
The provider arranges cremation logistics while you shape the service content. Typically, there’s no procession; the coffin is in place when you arrive and the focus is the tribute you create.
- Choose music, speakers and any visual tributes for the chapel slot.
- Agree timings and paperwork with the cremation provider.
- Attend with a small group of mourners for a simple, dignified farewell.
- Ashes are later returned or scattered according to your wishes.
Who it’s best for
This suits families who want a personal ceremony without the cost or formality of a traditional funeral, those comfortable speaking themselves, and anyone preferring a calm, intimate goodbye that still allows a moment together at the crematorium.
Typical costs in 2025
Providers list small attended/family-led cremations from about £1,895–£1,899, significantly below the £4,285 average for a basic traditional funeral (SunLife Cost of Dying 2025). Optional costs can include a professional celebrant, longer chapel time, personal ashes delivery and keepsake urns.
How to arrange in the UK
Start by registering the death and confirming the cremation paperwork. Then:
- Book a chapel slot with your chosen provider.
- Decide who will lead the tribute and what will be said or played.
- Provide any music, readings or media files in advance.
- Confirm your ashes preference (return or scatter).
Legal and practical notes
- No minister is required by law for a cremation service.
- Medical devices like pacemakers must be removed before cremation.
- Coroner involvement can affect timelines; build in flexibility.
- Capacity and slot length are set by the crematorium; keep tributes concise.
- Next of kin or authorised person must sign cremation forms and ashes instructions.
3. Celebration of life ceremony
What it is
A celebration of life is a memorial-style gathering focused on stories, music and memories rather than a formal funeral service. Often held after a cremation (commonly a direct cremation), it’s a flexible, highly personal alternative funeral arrangement that can take place at home, a favourite venue, outdoors or a community space.
How it works
You separate the practical cremation from the tribute, choosing a date, place and format that suit family and friends. A family member, friend or celebrant can host while guests share eulogies, readings, photos, video and favourite songs; some families include symbolic gestures such as planting a tree or raising a toast. Ashes may be present, if you wish.
Who it’s best for
This suits families who value time and flexibility to plan something personal, and those who prefer an uplifting tone over a set-format service.
- Dispersed families: Allows travel planning and higher attendance.
- Low‑fuss preferences: Simple structure, no chapel time pressure.
- Mixed beliefs: Inclusive for religious and non‑religious guests alike.
Typical costs in 2025
Costs are highly variable and driven by venue hire, catering, audio‑visual, celebrant fees and printed materials. Many families pair a celebration of life with a direct cremation (SunLife’s 2024 average £1,597 versus £4,285 for a basic funeral), helping keep overall spend significantly lower than a traditional service.
How to arrange in the UK
Set the cremation plan first, then the tribute details. Keep the format simple and delegate tasks.
- Choose date/time and venue (home, hall, pub/restaurant, outdoors).
- Nominate a host and draft a running order (music, tributes, slideshow).
- Gather photos, readings and favourite tracks; test AV in advance.
- Plan refreshments and any keepsakes; share clear invites and directions.
Legal and practical notes
A celebration of life doesn’t require a minister or any legal formalities. If ashes are present, transport them securely and follow venue rules on candles, confetti and any scattering. Check accessibility, capacity and licensing for food/drink. Coroner involvement may delay cremation, so avoid non‑refundable bookings until dates are confirmed.
4. Humanist or atheist funeral (non-religious)
What it is
A humanist or atheist funeral is a non-religious ceremony that honours a life without hymns, prayers or scripture. The emphasis is on a personal tribute, music, readings and time for reflection. You don’t need to identify as a humanist to choose this option — it’s simply a respectful, secular way to say goodbye.
How it works
A family member, friend or a humanist celebrant leads the ceremony. Most services are held in a crematorium chapel, but they can take place at any suitable venue (community hall, outdoors, favourite pub/room) that’s happy to host. The format typically includes a welcome, a life story/eulogy, readings or poems, favourite music, and moments of silence.
Who it’s best for
This is ideal for people who wanted “no religion”, mixed‑belief families, and anyone seeking a warm, inclusive ceremony focused on memories rather than ritual.
- Secular preferences: No religious content, fully personalised tone.
- Story‑led tributes: Space for a detailed eulogy and shared memories.
- Flexible venues: Choose a setting that feels right for your person.
Typical costs in 2025
Overall spend depends on the venue and whether you pair the ceremony with a direct cremation. SunLife reports the average direct cremation at £1,597 (2024), versus £4,285 for a basic funeral. Add on any chapel/venue hire and an optional celebrant fee (varies by region and length).
How to arrange in the UK
- Decide on cremation or burial and book your venue/chapel slot.
- Nominate a host or book a humanist celebrant; agree the running order.
- Gather stories, readings, photos and favourite music; prepare the eulogy.
- Confirm AV needs and accessibility; share clear joining details with guests.
- Complete the necessary cremation/burial paperwork with your provider.
Legal and practical notes
- No minister is required by law; non‑religious ceremonies are permitted at most crematoria.
- Content is secular by choice; families typically avoid hymns and prayers.
- Usual cremation rules apply (e.g., pacemakers/implants removed, coroner timelines if applicable).
- For non‑chapel venues, check capacity, licences (music/alcohol) and any rules on candles or symbolic items.
- If ashes will be present or scattered afterwards, follow venue guidance and local regulations.
5. Woodland or natural burial (green funeral)
What it is
A woodland or natural burial is an eco‑friendly alternative funeral arrangement where the person is laid to rest in a natural setting such as a forest, meadow or dedicated green burial ground. Graves are left to blend into the landscape: no traditional headstones or memorials, but a tree or flowers may mark the spot. Biodegradable coffins or shrouds are used and embalming is avoided.
How it works
You choose a natural burial ground and book a plot and date. The deceased is cared for without embalming and taken to the site for a simple graveside ceremony or quiet interment. Grounds are managed for nature, so paths, planting and any markers follow conservation rules, and the whole woodland becomes the place of remembrance.
Who it’s best for
This suits people who loved the outdoors, families seeking a low‑impact farewell, and those who prefer a gentle, simple ceremony under open sky.
- Nature‑minded and eco‑conscious families
- Those wanting a calm, informal outdoor gathering
- People who don’t need a fixed, inscribed headstone
Typical costs in 2025
Costs vary widely by location. A plot can range from a few hundred pounds to several thousand pounds, and you may also pay interment and grave‑digging fees. Because there’s no embalming and coffins are biodegradable, total spend can be lower than a traditional funeral, though venue, transport and any celebrant fees still apply.
How to arrange in the UK
Contact your chosen natural burial ground early to confirm availability and site rules, then keep plans simple and practical.
- Register the death and complete the burial paperwork with your provider.
- Book the plot/date and choose a biodegradable coffin or shroud.
- Decide on a brief graveside tribute, music or readings, and who will lead it.
Legal and practical notes
- No embalming; biodegradable coffin or shroud required by most sites.
- Headstones and conventional memorials are typically not permitted; trees/flowers may be allowed.
- Sites are outdoors: check access, weather plans and parking for guests.
- Approved woodland burial grounds operate across the UK; availability and rules differ by site.
- Confirm all fees upfront (plot, interment, grave‑digging) and how the ground will be maintained long‑term.
6. Burial at sea
What it is
Burial at sea is a full‑body committal to the ocean from a boat at a designated maritime location. It’s rare today but remains a meaningful choice for people with a strong connection to the sea. As an alternative funeral arrangement, it’s simple in spirit but governed by clear environmental and safety rules.
How it works
You’ll separate two parts: meeting the legal/environmental requirements, and arranging the short onboard ceremony. A specialist provider or funeral director can coordinate the licence, coffin specification and vessel, while you focus on who will speak and what will be said or played.
- Licence and zone: Secure the required licence and choose a designated UK sea burial area.
- Care and coffin: The body must not be embalmed; use biodegradable clothing and a specific coffin built for sea burial.
- Vessel and crew: Book a suitable boat and experienced crew for the voyage.
- Ceremony: Keep tributes brief and practical given deck space and weather.
- Aftercare: Providers confirm the burial coordinates for your records.
Who it’s best for
Burial at sea suits families honouring a maritime life and those who value the symbolism of a natural return to the ocean, without a chapel setting.
- Strong sea connection: Mariners, sailors, anglers, ocean lovers.
- Simple ritual: Short, direct committal with a small group.
- Non‑religious or mixed beliefs: Ceremony content can be entirely personal.
Typical costs in 2025
There’s no single price because costs depend on the vessel, location, licence administration, coffin specification, transport to the port, and whether you use a funeral director or celebrant. Many families opt instead for a direct cremation (SunLife’s 2024 average £1,597) followed by ashes scattering at sea, which is typically far cheaper and simpler than full‑body sea burial.
How to arrange in the UK
Begin with a provider experienced in sea burials, then keep plans weather‑aware and guest‑friendly.
- Confirm the person’s wishes and speak to a specialist provider or funeral director.
- Apply for the required licence and select a designated burial zone.
- Arrange approved coffin/clothing and ensure no embalming.
- Book the vessel/crew, set a provisional date and brief attendees.
- Plan a short ceremony (readings, music, tribute) suitable for a boat.
Legal and practical notes
- Licence and locations: A licence is required; designated UK zones include Off The Needles (Isle of Wight), Off Tynemouth (North Tyneside), and between Hastings and Newhaven.
- Care requirements: No embalming; biodegradable clothing and a specific sea‑burial coffin are required.
- Weather and safety: Sailings can be postponed; numbers on board are limited.
- Access and comfort: Consider mobility, lifejackets and seasickness.
- Alternative option: Scattering ashes at sea carries no legal requirements and is often easier to arrange after a direct cremation.
7. DIY funeral (without a funeral director)
What it is
A DIY funeral is where the family organises the funeral without using a funeral director. It’s entirely legal in the UK and can be religious or non‑religious. Many choose this route for control, personalisation and potential savings compared with traditional options.
How it works
You handle the practical and ceremonial elements yourself, coordinating suppliers and the venue while keeping plans simple and personal. This usually means arranging care of the deceased, transport, the coffin or shroud, booking the cremation or burial, completing paperwork and leading any tribute.
- Identify who will manage tasks and timelines.
- Keep communications clear with the crematorium or burial ground.
- Decide whether to hold a service or a later celebration of life.
Who it’s best for
DIY suits families who want hands‑on involvement, have time and support, and prefer deeply personal touches over formalities. It’s also helpful where budgets are tight. It may be less suitable if grief, distance or time pressures make admin and logistics overwhelming.
Typical costs in 2025
Costs vary widely depending on choices. Doing it yourself can reduce fees, but you’ll still pay for essentials such as crematorium fees, a coffin/shroud, venue/chapel hire, transport and any celebrant. Many DIY families pair this with a direct cremation (SunLife’s 2024 average £1,597, versus £4,285 for a basic funeral) and then host a low‑cost memorial later.
How to arrange in the UK
Start with the legal steps, then book the practicals and keep the ceremony simple.
- Register the death and gather the required forms.
- Choose cremation or burial; book the crematorium or burial ground.
- Arrange suitable care and cooling for the deceased.
- Purchase a coffin or shroud and arrange transport.
- Complete cremation/burial paperwork and confirm timings.
- Plan the tribute or celebration of life and invite attendees.
- Decide on ashes return/scattering or grave marking, as applicable.
Legal and practical notes
- There is no legal requirement to use a funeral director in the UK.
- Paperwork and processes differ between England, Scotland and Wales; confirm locally.
- For cremation, pacemakers and similar implants must be removed; embalming isn’t required.
- Woodland sites typically require biodegradable coffins/shrouds and no embalming.
- Home burial is possible in limited circumstances (you should own the freehold and record the burial on the property deeds).
- Coroner involvement can affect timings; build in flexibility.
- Keep handling, transport and storage dignified and safe; use appropriate vehicles and lifting help.
8. Water cremation (aquamation/resomation) [availability in 2025]
What it is
Water cremation uses alkaline hydrolysis rather than flame to return the body to its basic elements, producing an ash‑like powder for the family. It’s often described as gentler and more environmentally friendly than traditional cremation, and has been chosen in countries where it’s permitted by well‑known public figures.
How it works
The body is placed in a sealed, pressurised tank with water and alkali. Over several hours (the process can take up to 16 hours), tissues are reduced, then the remaining bone is processed into an ash‑like powder for return to the family, similar to conventional cremation.
Who it’s best for
If available, it would suit people seeking a low‑impact, non‑flame alternative funeral arrangement and families who value a simple, dignified process.
- Eco‑conscious choices: Lower‑impact ethos than a traditional service.
- “No fuss” preferences: Practical, private and straightforward.
- Those wary of flame cremation: A different, water‑based method.
Typical costs in 2025
Water cremation is not currently available in the UK, so there’s no domestic price benchmark. Many families choose the nearest alternative — direct cremation (SunLife reports a 2024 average of £1,597, versus £4,285 for a basic funeral) — then hold a personal memorial.
How to arrange in the UK
You can’t book aquamation in the UK at this time. To honour similar wishes:
- Record preferences: Note water cremation in a will or wishes document.
- Choose a practical alternative now: Consider direct cremation with a later celebration of life.
- Monitor availability: Keep an eye on reputable providers for future updates.
Legal and practical notes
- Availability: Not currently offered in the UK; some other countries do permit it.
- Beware claims: If you see UK offers for aquamation, verify legal status and provider credibility.
- Ashes care: After any cremation, standard rules apply for transporting, keeping or scattering ashes.
- Alternative today: A direct cremation is the most comparable, widely available option in the UK.
Next steps
Start by deciding what matters most: budget, who needs to attend (if anyone), the tone you want (quiet, celebratory or secular), and any eco or location preferences. Then keep your plan simple and practical.
- Confirm the person’s wishes and your budget; register the death and note any coroner timelines.
- Choose the option that fits (e.g., direct cremation, family‑led, woodland) and make a provisional booking.
- Sketch a short plan: who will lead, music/readings, ashes or grave arrangements.
- Avoid non‑refundable venue costs until dates are confirmed.
- Write down decisions and share them with close family.
If you need an immediate, low‑stress option with clear pricing and 24/7 support, speak to Go Direct Cremations. We’ll handle the practicalities so you can focus on a personal farewell in your own time.