Direct Cremations FAQ

A direct cremation is a simple, dignified, and cost-effective cremation service without a traditional funeral ceremony. There is no formal service, viewing, or attendees at the cremation itself. Instead, the deceased is cremated, and the ashes are returned to the family, allowing them to hold a private memorial or celebration of life at a time and place of their choosing.

People choose direct cremation for various reasons, including:
● Affordability – Lower costs compared to traditional funerals.
● Simplicity – No formal service, hearse, or procession.
● Flexibility – Families can arrange a personal memorial in their own way.
● Privacy – Ideal for those who prefer a less formal farewell.

Direct cremation is generally more affordable than traditional funeral services, as it avoids costs such as venue hire, floral arrangements, and limousines. Please contact City of Leeds Funeral Services for our most up-to-date pricing.

We provide direct cremation services across Leeds and the surrounding areas within a 30-mile radius, including:
● Wakefield
● Bradford
● Harrogate
● York
● Huddersfield
● Pontefract
● Castleford
● Barnsley
● Dewsbury

Our direct cremation service includes:

• Collection of your loved one from a local hospital, hospice, or home (within a 30-mile radius).
• Handling all necessary paperwork and cremation arrangements.
• A simple, dignified coffin.
• Transportation to a local crematorium in a specialist vehicle.
• All crematorium fees included.
• An unattended cremation.
• Ashes returned in a simple casket or scattered at the crematorium (if preferred).

Arranging a direct cremation is simple. Contact us by phone or email, and our caring team will guide you through the process. We handle everything, from completing paperwork to making the cremation arrangements, allowing you to focus on what truly matters.

Direct cremations do not typically include a viewing. However, if you wish to visit your loved one before the cremation, we may be able to arrange a private visitation for an additional fee. Please discuss this with us during your consultation.

After the cremation, the ashes will be returned to you in a simple casket. You have several options, including:
● Keeping them in a chosen urn.
● Scattering them in a meaningful place.
● Interring them in a cemetery or memorial garden.
If you need guidance on memorial options, we’re happy to help.

We aim to carry out all direct cremations within two weeks of bringing your loved one into our care. We understand the importance of timely arrangements and will keep you updated throughout the process.

Yes. Many families choose to hold a memorial service, celebration of life, or private gathering after a direct cremation. This allows you to honour your loved one in your own way—whether at home, in a favourite location, or at a chosen venue.

Yes. City of Leeds Funeral Services ensures that your loved one is cremated within Leeds and the surrounding areas. Unlike some larger corporate services, we do not transport individuals nationwide to the nearest available crematorium. We prioritise dignity, respect, and local care.

While direct cremation is our primary service, we can also assist with:

• Memorial planning advice – Helping you arrange a meaningful tribute.
• Grief support resources – Connecting you with bereavement support.
• Guidance on legal matters – Helping you navigate wills, probate, and estate administration.

If you have specific needs, please let us know, and we will do our best to assist you.

We are here to help. If you have any further questions or require additional information, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our dedicated team is available to provide personal and compassionate support during this difficult time.