About Cremation

Since our Woking Crematorium conducted the first public cremation in Great Britain in 1885, cremation has grown in popularity in the country, as well as across the globe. Now almost 80% of people choose a cremation for the loved one they’ve lost.

One of the main reasons is that cremation is generally more affordable than traditional burial. However, it can also offer greater flexibility in how a funeral and/or a memorial service is delivered. It also allows for the cremated remains to be kept close to loved ones or scattered in a very personalised way. The continued development of environmentally friendly methods is also a key factor in its rise in popularity.

We hope the following frequently asked questions will help in your decision-making process at this difficult time. However, if you’ve a question which isn’t answered below, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

What percentage of people in the UK choose cremation over burial?

In 1968, cremations exceeded burials for the first time in the UK, and currently almost 80% of all people choose a cremation.

Does cremation cost more than burial?

No, burial is usually much more expensive than cremation. Our cremation fee will be charged by us directly to your funeral director, who’ll include it on their invoice to you.

What kind of service can I have?

A funeral service is completely personal to you and can be designed to suit your specific needs and desires. There are many options available which can be discussed with us or your funeral director. For more detail see our Arranging a Funeral page.

Do I need to use a funeral director or can I arrange it all myself?

No, you can make the arrangements yourself but there is a lot to consider. We’ll do our utmost to assist, but funeral directors are professionals who offer all the services you’ll need and will also work with our staff on your behalf. We’d always recommend the use of a funeral director, but this is your choice. If you don’t have one in mind, we’d be happy to assist you in finding the right one for you.

How long after the ceremony does the actual cremation take place?

The cremation will usually take place the day of the service, however there are times when the cremation may take place the following day.

Is the coffin cremated with the body?

Yes, we abide by the Federation of Burial and Cremation Authorities Code of Cremation Practice, which states that the coffin and the body shall be placed inside the cremator together.

Should jewellery be removed before cremation?

This is a personal decision and you should discuss this with your funeral director. Please note, once the coffin is at the crematorium, it’s not usually possible to open it.

How do I know that the ashes will be kept separately?

The process for cremation only accommodates one coffin at a time and we operate strict procedures to ensure that the identity information remains with the deceased at all times. Once all the ashes are removed from the cremator, they are placed into an individually labelled urn or container of your choice.

What happens to the ashes afterwards?

At the time of making the arrangements for the funeral, the application forms require the applicant to select one of three choices:

The ashes are looked after at the crematorium
They are scattered in the gardens, either witnessed or unwitnessed, which could be with a memorial
You may choose to remove the ashes (the applicant can nominate another person to do this on their behalf)

Our crematorium staff are happy to help in making arrangements for a memorial, scattering or burial of ashes or simply having them collected. You may also wish to discuss the options with your funeral director.