Cremation vs Burial

Budget

If you are considering a Burial in your Local Authority Cemetery, charges are much lower for the Borough's residents than for non-residents. However, the cemetery may not be located within the Borough and won’t necessarily be the nearest one to where you live, so burial costs may have a substantial impact on the price of a budget funeral. Natural burial grounds are often competitive, but are located further afield.  Woodland burial grounds don’t usually allow gravestones, so the cost of a grave-marker made of wood will be much less than one in stone. Gravestones currently cost upwards of £1,000.

Even if your family owns an existing plot, the cost of just digging the existing grave may be higher than you anticipate and is sometimes more expensive than a cremation.  There will be a charge for adding a name to the headstone and there may be a fee for temporarily removing the stone memorial if this is necessary in order for the burial to take place.

Although burial is more expensive than cremation, the DWP will contribute to, or cover, the cost of a burial for those on benefits and entitled to assistance from the Social Fund.  However, they will only reimburse you for the cost of the very cheapest private grave available in your area.  They won’t help you to pay for a gravestone or marker.

Cremation fees in the London area are around £600 to £750.  If you hold the funeral before 10am, a cheaper rate is available at some crematoria.

Direct Cremation is the least expensive method of committal offered by Levertons. This is a more basic option and not necessarily suitable for everyone.

Lasting memorials for cremated remains

Cemeteries offer small plots or ‘niches’ for the interment of ashes at a lower cost than buying a grave.  If your family own a grave, the cost of burying ashes is much lower than interring a coffin and the deceased can be added to the existing gravestone.  Most crematoria offer a variety of memorials which can be purchased for a number of years, from rosebushes with plaques to stone memorials.


Environmental pros and cons

We at Levertons have examined the environmental impact of relatively local burial, woodland burial and cremation.  Each method has some negative impact, and it is debatable which causes least damage to our environment. Our view is that it is still a matter of personal choice.

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I cannot praise Leverton and Sons highly enough. The professionalism, organisation and empathy they showed in organising my mother's funeral was of the highest standard. There was incredible attention to detail and the service was flawless. A huge thank you to all involved.

Review by Christian A left on 02 Sep 2025

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Review by Paul W left on 31 Aug 2025

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I made my initial appointment with Lorna Walkden at Kentish Town Branch. My friend had passed very unexpectedly. Lorna made the whole Process easy for me to understand. Could not recommend Leverton & Sons enough.

Review by Angel left on 17 Aug 2025

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Myself and family had exceptional service from Leverton & Sons. Very pleased and thankful for Lorna who helped guide me through the options with ease. Also much appreciation for the celebrant chosen for us Mr Andrew Pavlibeyi and the prompt and professional drivers. We would highly recommend Leverton & Sons services to anyone in need.

Review by David P left on 15 Aug 2025

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Lorna really made the whole expirience of organising my sons viewings and funeral very meaningful. She held me when my world fell apart and helped me piece together detailed tributes to honour my son Jamie. She was available in person, on the phone and via email when ever I needed. The funeral was beautiful. She made the hardest most painful time of my life very touching. Every detail was included and I felt guided and supported to make choices at my speed.

Review by Itahisa A left on 15 Aug 2025

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Leverton conducted both my parents’ funerals. Deborah is a consummate professional and their service was faultless throughout on both occasions. Thank you.

Review by Richard H left on 09 Aug 2025

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Review by Ellen B left on 07 Aug 2025

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James was sincere and responsive to our needs throughout. There was genuine integrity in their service they went above and beyond what I expected.

Review by Chris D left on 07 Aug 2025

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Leventons are truly excellent everything was so well organised and everyone so lovely. They have organised two cremations for us and both have been perfect. Deborah was so supportive an a pleasure to deal with.

Review by Susie H left on 06 Aug 2025

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Everything was just perfect . The Deborah at Leventons could not have done more a pleasure to deal with. Thank you

Review by Susie H left on 05 Aug 2025

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