Costs, timeframes, and considerations for burial vs cremation, including religious and environmental factors.
This guide is part of ProbateHelp's Funeral Planning guide cluster. Estimated reading time: 10 min.
Once cremation has taken place, it cannot be reversed. However, you can change your mind at any point before the cremation. If you have signed a cremation form but wish to change to burial, contact the funeral director immediately.
Yes — ashes can be buried in a churchyard or cemetery, usually in a dedicated area or in an existing family grave. There is typically a fee for this. Ashes can also be buried in a garden or other private land, though you should check with the landowner and local authority.
In England and Wales, there are no specific laws restricting where ashes can be scattered on land, but you should have the landowner's permission. Scattering at sea is permitted. Some locations (such as national parks) have specific guidelines. Scattering on public land is generally tolerated but not officially permitted.
Traditional Jewish law (Orthodox Judaism) prohibits cremation. Islam also prohibits cremation. Some conservative Christian denominations historically discouraged it, though the Catholic Church now permits cremation. Hinduism and Sikhism traditionally favour cremation. Always consult a religious leader if in doubt.
A natural burial involves burying the body in a biodegradable coffin or shroud in a natural burial ground, without embalming. The aim is to minimise environmental impact and allow the body to return to nature. Natural burial grounds are available across the UK. Costs are typically similar to or slightly lower than conventional burial.
The cremation process itself takes 2–3 hours. The ashes (technically 'cremated remains') are then processed and placed in a container. The entire process from collection to return of ashes typically takes 3–5 days.
Yes — some crematoriums allow family members to be present at the start of the cremation. This is particularly important in some religious traditions (for example, Hinduism). Ask the funeral director or crematorium if this is possible.