Working out what a cremation costs can be confusing, particularly when different providers quote in different ways. This guide explains how cremation costs are made up, why prices vary so much, and what you can expect to pay in Hampshire. Our aim is to help you reach a clear, informed decision, without any pressure.
Contents
How Much Does Cremation Cost in Hampshire?
Being open about cost is important to us. You can see our full price list at any time, and you are always welcome to call us with questions.
What affects the cost of a cremation?
The single biggest factor is the type of cremation you choose. A direct cremation, with no service at the crematorium, is the simplest and lowest in cost. An attended cremation, with a service in the crematorium chapel, includes more and therefore costs more.
Other things affect the total too. The coffin you choose, the crematorium and the time of day, whether you would like limousines, and any personal touches such as an order of service all play a part. None of these are compulsory. They are choices, and we will help you understand what each one adds so you can decide what matters to your family.
What is included in a cremation price?
A cremation cost is usually made up of two parts, and it helps to understand the difference.
The first is the funeral director’s fee. This covers bringing your loved one into our care, looking after them, the coffin, transport, and all the arranging, liaison, and paperwork involved. It is the part we are responsible for.
The second is the crematorium fee. This is paid to the crematorium for the use of the chapel and for the cremation itself. It is set by the crematorium, not by us. Fees differ from one crematorium to another, which is one reason prices vary across Hampshire.
You can see how we handle each of our cremation services and what is included in each.
Why do prices vary so much between providers?
Two providers can quote very different prices for what sounds like the same thing. Sometimes that reflects a genuine difference in what is included. Sometimes it reflects how the price is presented.
A low headline figure can look appealing, but it is worth asking what sits behind it. Does it include the coffin? The crematorium fee? The return of the ashes? A price that leaves these out will grow once they are added back in.
We take a different approach. We show you the full total from the start, so the figure you see is the figure you pay. We think that is simply the respectful way to treat a family who is already dealing with a great deal.
James Keen cremation prices
Here is what our cremation services cost, set out plainly.
A direct cremation starts from £1,355. An unattended direct cremation, with everything included, comes to a total of £1,500. This is the simplest option, with no service at the crematorium.
A basic cremation comes to a total of £2,600. This includes a service, often family led, where you can gather to say goodbye with music and a short time together.
A bespoke funeral, arranged and conducted at a single venue, comes to a total of £3,950. This is our fullest service, with a personal funeral director guiding you through every detail.
Every one of these figures is set out in full on our price list, along with the crematorium fees for each of the crematoria we work with.
Costs to look out for
When comparing providers, there are a few things worth checking so you are not caught out later.
Ask whether the coffin is included, or an extra. Ask whether the crematorium fee is part of the quote. Ask whether the return of the ashes is included, and whether there is a charge for bringing your loved one into care outside office hours. Ask, too, whether the price assumes a particular time of day, since some crematoria charge more at popular times.
These are not trick questions. A good funeral director will answer them all clearly. With us, the answers are already in the price list, so you do not need to go looking.
Help with funeral costs
If you are worried about how to pay, you are not alone, and there may be help available. If you receive certain benefits, you may be able to claim a Funeral Expenses Payment from the government towards some of the cost. Support may also come from the person’s estate, a prepaid funeral plan, or other sources.
We can talk you through the options and point you towards the right guidance. Please do not let worry about cost stop you from getting in touch. We will always be honest with you about what things cost and help you find an approach that works for your family.
As an independent, family-run practice, we are not part of a national chain with targets to meet. That independence is part of why we can be so straightforward about price. We would far rather you understood exactly what you were paying for than felt uneasy about a figure you did not fully understand.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a cremation cost in the UK?
Costs vary widely depending on the type of cremation and where you are in the country. A direct cremation is the simplest and lowest-cost option, while an attended cremation with a full service costs more because it includes the crematorium chapel, the funeral director’s time on the day, and other elements. At James Keen, a direct cremation starts from £1,355 and a basic attended cremation comes to £2,600.
What is included in a cremation cost?
A cremation cost is usually made up of two parts. The funeral director’s fee covers caring for your loved one, the coffin, transport, and all the arranging and paperwork. The crematorium fee covers the use of the chapel and the cremation itself. Our price list sets out exactly what sits in each part, so you can see where every pound goes.
Why do cremation prices vary so much?
Prices vary because funerals vary. The type of service, the coffin you choose, the crematorium and time of day, and any additional touches all affect the total. Some providers also quote a low headline figure and add costs later. We prefer to show you the full picture from the start.
Is a direct cremation cheaper than an attended cremation?
Yes. A direct cremation costs less because there is no service at the crematorium, which removes the chapel fee and reduces the funeral director’s time on the day. With James Keen, a direct cremation starts from £1,355, while an attended cremation service starts higher because it includes more.
Are there hidden costs with cremation?
There should not be, and with us there are not. Some costs, known as disbursements, are paid to third parties such as the crematorium, a minister, or a celebrant. We set these out separately and clearly so you always know what is our fee and what is paid on your behalf.
What help is available with funeral costs?
If you are receiving certain benefits, you may be able to apply for a Funeral Expenses Payment from the government to help with some of the cost. There may also be support available through the person’s estate or a prepaid plan. We can point you towards the right guidance and help you understand your options.