What Happens at a UK Cremation Service?

Planning a funeral can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve never attended a cremation before. To help you feel more prepared, this guide walks you gently through what typically happens at a cremation service in the UK — from arrival at the chapel to what takes place afterwards.

Dealing with the death of a friend or family member can often be stressful. Not only are you dealing with grief, but there is a lot to do when it comes to making arrangements and contacting different people.

Every crematorium has its own facilities and style, but most follow a similar structure. Understanding the process can make the day feel more manageable and allow you to focus on honouring your loved one.

Before the Service

Arrival at the Crematorium

Guests usually arrive around 10–15 minutes before the service begins. Signs or staff will direct you towards the chapel, parking, and waiting areas. Funeral directors may be outside to guide mourners and prepare the family for the procession.

If a hearse is being used, the funeral director will organise when the coffin is brought into the chapel. Some families choose to follow behind the coffin; others may be seated first — both are perfectly acceptable.

Order of Service

Many families provide an order of service booklet at the entrance. This usually includes:

• Photos of the person who has died
• Music choices
• Readings, poems, or hymns
• Details about the wake or gathering afterwards

Inside the Chapel

Seating and Capacity

Most crematorium chapels seat between 60 and 150 people, though some can be extended or provide speakers outside for larger gatherings. Many offer:

• Disabled access
• A hearing loop
• Live streaming or recording for those who cannot attend

Music and Visual Tributes

Music is often chosen by the family and played through a digital system such as Wesley Media or Obitus. Options include:

• Favourite songs
• Hymns
• Instrumental pieces

Many crematoria now offer screens for photo slideshows or video tributes, if the family would like to include them.

The Service Itself

Who Leads the Service?

A cremation service can be:

• Religious (led by a minister or faith leader)
• Non-religious (led by a celebrant)
• Family-led

A standard service usually lasts around 30 to 45 minutes, although some crematoria allow longer bookings upon request.

Typical Order of a Cremation Service

While every funeral is unique, many cremation services include:

1. Entry music
2. Welcome and introduction
3. Readings, poems, or prayers
4. Eulogy or tribute
5. Quiet reflection or photo montage
6. Committal
7. Closing words
8. Exit music

The Committal

During the committal, the coffin is formally “committed” for cremation. Depending on the crematorium, this may happen in different ways:

• Curtains closing around the coffin
• The coffin gently lowering
• A screen lowering
• The coffin remaining in place while the officiant gives a blessing

This part of the service can be emotional, and families can choose a style that feels comfortable and fitting.

After the Service

Leaving the Chapel

Guests usually exit to a chosen piece of music. Floral tributes are often displayed outside for people to view. It’s common for mourners to gather briefly before heading to the wake or reception.

What Happens to the Coffin?

Once the chapel is empty, crematorium staff respectfully move the coffin into the crematory area. Cremations are carried out individually and with strict identification procedures from beginning to end.

How Long Does Cremation Take?

The cremation typically takes 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the coffin material and equipment used. Ashes are usually ready to be collected a few days later, though some crematoria can provide them sooner if needed.

Aftercare and Ashes

Collecting the Ashes

The funeral director or a nominated family member can collect the ashes from the crematorium. They are returned in a simple container unless an urn has been chosen.

Options for Ashes

Families often choose one of the following:

• Burial or interment in a cemetery or crematorium garden
• Scattering in a designated area or meaningful location
• Keeping the ashes at home
• Dividing ashes into keepsake urns or jewellery
• Creating memorial items such as glass art or jewellery

Your funeral director or crematorium can advise on local rules and permissions.

Final Thoughts

A cremation service is a meaningful chance to say goodbye in a personal and respectful way. Understanding what to expect can make the day feel calmer and allow you to focus on celebrating your loved one’s life.

If you’re currently planning a funeral, you can explore crematoria near you — including chapel details, facilities, and contact information — through our UK crematorium directory.