24 hour line 0191 586 4322

Cremation options

Direct cremation

A direct cremation is a cremation that family and friends do not attend. If it is what you or your loved one would like, we can talk it through with you at any time.

A lit candle beside red berries, with a brass candle snuffer

What a direct cremation is

On our Standardised Price List, a direct cremation appears as an unattended cremation. It is a funeral where family and friends may choose to have a ceremony, event or service for the person who has died, but they do not attend the cremation itself.

Prices

Our charges for an unattended cremation, and the crematorium fee, are set out in the unattended funeral section of our Standardised Price List.

Talk it through with us

Call any of our four funeral homes, or our 24 hour line on 0191 586 4322, and we will explain what is involved and answer your questions.

Reviews

What families say about us

Many local families choose us on personal recommendation. You can read what families have said about us, in their own words, on Trustpilot.

Read our reviews on Trustpilot
Excellent 5.0 out of 5 from 312 reviews on Trustpilot (as shown on Trustpilot, 9 November 2026)

We could not have asked for better service from Ellen and her team, they looked after us so well during such an awful time. Will be forever grateful.

Susan Park 28 July 2026 Review on Trustpilot (opens in a new tab)

Questions

Frequently asked questions

See all frequently asked questions

What is a direct cremation?

A cremation that family and friends do not attend. On our Standardised Price List it appears as an unattended cremation. Family and friends may choose to have a ceremony, event or service for the person who has died, but they do not attend the cremation itself.

How much does a direct cremation cost?

Our charges for an unattended cremation, and the crematorium fee, are set out on our Standardised Price List.

Can I call you at night or at the weekend?

Yes. Our 24 hour line, 0191 586 4322, is answered day and night, every day of the year.

We are here whenever you need us

Call our 24 hour line, or any of our four funeral homes.

Call 0191 586 4322
Call us 24 hours 0191 586 4322