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When a loved one passes away, choosing the right type of farewell is one of the most meaningful decisions a family can make. There is no single correct answer — each option carries its own character, and what matters most is that the service reflects the person who has died and brings some comfort to those left behind.
This guide outlines the main funeral options available in the UK, from traditional services to greener alternatives, so you can make an informed choice.
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At a glance
What it covers
An overview of the main funeral options available in the UK — traditional, cremation, green, memorial, and home funerals.
Who it's for
Families making early decisions after a bereavement, or individuals planning their own arrangements in advance.
Key takeaway
The right farewell is the one that best honours the person who has died and meets the practical needs of those arranging it.
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Traditional funeral
A traditional funeral follows the most familiar format: the deceased is embalmed and displayed in a casket during a viewing or wake, followed by a service with eulogies, prayers, and readings, and a final committal at the graveside. Services typically take place at a funeral home or place of worship. This structure provides a clear, communal way for mourners to come together and pay their respects.
Direct cremation
Direct cremation has grown considerably in popularity in recent years. The body is cremated without a prior funeral service, and the ashes are returned to the family. Families can then choose to hold a memorial in their own time — at any location, without the constraints of a fixed date or venue. It is often a more affordable option. You can find a detailed cost breakdown in our direct cremation costs guide.
Green or eco-friendly funeral
Green funerals — also known as natural burials — prioritise environmental sustainability. The body is prepared without traditional embalming chemicals, using biodegradable materials instead. Burial takes place in a designated natural burial ground, often marked by a simple monument or a tree planting rather than a headstone. For anyone who placed great value on environmental stewardship, this option allows that ethos to extend to their final farewell. You can read more in our article on the growing trend of eco-friendly funerals.
Memorial service
A memorial service takes place after the burial or cremation has already occurred, giving families more time to plan and allowing people who could not attend a funeral to gather and pay their respects. Memorial services can be held at any location — a family home, a community hall, a favourite place — and can be as formal or informal as the family prefers. This option works well alongside direct cremation, or where the death occurred abroad.
Home funeral
Though less common, home funerals offer a deeply personal alternative. The family takes a more hands-on role in caring for the body, creating a home-based vigil or wake, and organising the ceremony. This approach can be profoundly meaningful, giving family members an active part in the farewell process. It is advisable to speak with a funeral director about the legal requirements before proceeding.
How to choose
There is no objectively correct choice — only the one that is right for your family and the person you have lost. Practical considerations such as cost, location, and the wishes of the deceased will all play a part. Reading about what to do when a loved one passes away can help you work through those first steps. If you would like guidance specific to your situation, contact Funero at info@funero.co.uk.
