What Is a Direct Cremation?
At Cambridgeshire Direct Cremations, we believe every goodbye deserves dignity — without unnecessary expense or complication.
A
direct cremation is a simple, respectful cremation with no service or attendees present. It allows families to say farewell privately, in their own way, while keeping costs low and arrangements straightforward.

How a Direct Cremation Works
A
direct cremation takes place without a traditional funeral service. Once all paperwork is completed, your loved one is taken into our care, the cremation is carried out at a local crematorium, and the ashes are later returned to you.
This type of cremation is chosen for its simplicity, affordability, and flexibility — giving families the time and space to plan a personal memorial or celebration of life later on.
Why Choose a Direct Cremation?
A direct cremation offers a straightforward and cost-effective alternative to a traditional funeral. There’s no need for a ceremony at the crematorium, and all practical aspects are handled by our caring team.
Families often choose this option when they want to focus on remembrance, hold a separate private gathering, or reduce financial pressure. It’s a modern choice that keeps compassion and dignity at its heart, ensuring every farewell remains personal and meaningful.

Our Promise to You
We know choosing a direct cremation can feel like a big decision. Our family-run team ensures every step is handled with respect and transparency — from collection to the safe return of your loved one’s ashes.
With fixed pricing, no hidden extras, and guidance every step of the way, we’re here to help you find peace of mind during a difficult time.
What’s Included in Our Direct Cremation Service
- Professional care and collection of your loved one
- Required paperwork and cremation fees
- A simple, unattended cremation
- Return of ashes in a biodegradable urn
- Support and guidance from our caring team
We serve all areas across Cambridgeshire, offering families an affordable direct cremation that’s handled with dignity, professionalism, and compassion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a direct cremation include?
A direct cremation includes the professional care of your loved one, completion of all necessary paperwork, cremation at a local crematorium, and the safe return of ashes. There is no funeral service or attendees present. Families can still hold their own memorial or gathering later. At Cambridgeshire Direct Cremations, everything is handled with respect, from collection to the return of ashes, giving you peace of mind and time to celebrate your loved one’s life in your own way.
Why do people choose a direct cremation?
Families often choose a direct cremation because it offers a simple, affordable, and dignified alternative to a traditional funeral. It allows loved ones to say goodbye privately, without the pressure or cost of a formal ceremony. Many also prefer to arrange a separate celebration of life or personal memorial at a later date. This flexibility helps families grieve in their own time, while ensuring their loved one is cared for with respect throughout the process.
Is direct cremation cheaper than a traditional funeral?
Yes, a direct cremation is usually much cheaper than a traditional funeral because there is no service, procession, or venue hire involved. You pay only for the essential elements — professional care, cremation fees, and the return of ashes. This makes it an ideal choice for those wishing to avoid unnecessary expenses. Our pricing at Cambridgeshire Direct Cremations is completely transparent, with no hidden extras or unexpected costs, allowing you to plan with confidence.
Can we still have a memorial after a direct cremation?
Absolutely. One of the main advantages of a direct cremation is the freedom to hold a memorial, scattering, or celebration of life at a later time. This allows family and friends to come together in a more relaxed and personal setting. Many families choose to gather somewhere meaningful, such as a garden, park, or local venue. At Cambridgeshire Direct Cremations, we encourage families to remember their loved one in a way that feels right for them.
Where does the cremation take place?
All direct cremations are carried out respectfully at one of our trusted local crematoria within Cambridgeshire. We work closely with licensed facilities that uphold the highest standards of care and professionalism. The cremation is unattended, ensuring privacy and simplicity. Once complete, the ashes are carefully prepared and returned to the family or nominated person. You can rest assured that every step is handled with dignity by our experienced team.
How long does a direct cremation take?
Once all the necessary paperwork and authorisations are completed, a direct cremation usually takes place within a few days. After the cremation, the ashes are typically ready for collection or delivery within a week. We’ll keep you updated at each stage so you know what to expect. At Cambridgeshire Direct Cremations, we pride ourselves on clear communication, gentle support, and efficient service, ensuring everything is handled with care and compassion.
Speak With Our Caring Team
If you’d like to learn more about arranging a
direct cremation in Cambridgeshire, please contact our friendly team today.
We’re here 24 hours a day to offer clear advice, transparent pricing, and professional guidance.
