Embalming and Viewing

Presenting your loved one with dignity and care. If you wish to see and say goodbye in person, we are here to support you. Our highly experienced, qualified embalmer ensures that your loved one can be viewed safely and with a stillness that reflects peace.

Why some families choose embalming

Embalming is a temporary preservation process carried out with respect and professionalism. It carefully sanitises and prepares the body, often enhancing a natural appearance and allowing more time before the funeral. It's particularly useful if you wish to view your loved one, delay the service, or if the body needs to be transported. It's not a legal requirement, but it may help create a comforting final goodbye.

If you wish to pay a final tribute in person - viewing offers that space. Many families find quiet comfort in spending a few moments or longer periods of time alone with their loved one. The experience can bring clarity, closure, and a meaningful reflection of their life. If you'd rather not view, that decision is honoured too - without any pressure, or judgement.

How we support you

  • Let us know what feels right: embalming, viewing, or neither.
  • If embalming is chosen, our qualified in-house professional will guide the process with respect.
  • We ensure a serene presentation - dressed lying gently for viewing.
  • Our team handles everything discreetly - allowing you to focus on remembering.

Safety, clarity and options

  • Embalming isn't mandatory - there's often no need unless the deceased is being transported by air.
  • If you'd like embalming for health reasons, to improve the appearance, or because of timing, we can explain the options and benefits.
  • You always remain in control of what happens, with honest advice and no hard sell.

Ready to take the next step?

Speak with us in person or over the phone. We'll explain what each choice means - helping you to decide whether viewing or embalming is helpful for your needs. We walk you through every option - clearly, quietly, and compassionately.

There are a lot of myths surrounding the embalming myths. You can read our embalming myths debunked article to learn more about process and how the Levertons team ensure that embalming is performed in a completely respectful manner.

News & guides

A step-by-step guide to planning a funeral
Planning a funeral is one of the most meaningful and emotional responsibilities a person can undertake. During a period of grief, it can be difficult to think clearly and make decisions. That’s why having a structured guide is invaluable — it helps you navigate the process with clarity and peace of mind, while honouring the […]
Learn more
Embalming myths debunked 
When families visit our funeral home to make arrangements for their loved ones, one topic that often raises questions- and sometimes eyebrows- is embalming. The practice of embalming, despite being a routine aspect of funeral care, is surrounded by myths and misconceptions that can make it an uncomfortable discussion for some people. As a funeral […]
Learn more
Let’s talk about direct cremations
Whether it’s because of cost or circumstance, a formal ceremony may not be for everyone. There has been a noticeable movement away from the traditional funeral in recent years with many opting for a Direct Cremation. It may be due to the cost-of-living crisis or indeed the aftermath of Covid when people weren’t able to […]
Learn more

Contact Levertons

Our business hours are 9am to 5pm, so please contact the branch closest to you within these hours. Alternatively submit an enquiry using our form.

Need us now? We’re here for you
- day or night

Need immediate assistance? Please get in touch. In the case of someone dying at home, or if you need to contact us out of our regular office hours, do call us. We can arrange collection 24 hours a day.

Recently, I dealt with the sudden and tragic death and funeral of a close family member, and was upset and shocked at the news of her unexpected passing. Fortunately, Laverson were outstanding in their support and help before, during and after the funeral. They carried out the whole process with calmness, consideration and great kindness. I am extremely grateful to them for their dedication and sensitivity and I would be absolutely lost without them. Thanks especially to Carmel who was a patient and superb professional at all times. Richard Burke, Leeds, West Yorkshire

Review by Richard B left on 05 Jan 2026

Google

Levertons were outstanding to deal with; kind, caring and every attention to detail. I cannot thank them enough

Review by chris S left on 05 Jan 2026

Google

We found the funeral director exceptional helpful and knowledgeable. The service was very respectful.

Review by M OL left on 05 Jan 2026

Google

Leverton's staff have always been kind and professional. They give good advice when needed. They offer a personal service that is really appreciated when going through a difficult time like losing a loved one. They make a difficult time, dealing with difficult decisions much lighter. Thank you Leverton's - especially Julie!

Review by Brenda F left on 05 Jan 2026

Google

We were extremely grateful for the excellent support and assistance we received from Levertons. Lorna from the Kentish Town Branch made herself available to guide us and answer all our questions. As a family we felt that Levertons went the extra mile to ensure that everything was done to our satisfaction. I would highly recommend them to anyone who loses a family member. I would give them 11 out of 10 for their service.

Review by Antoinette N left on 31 Dec 2025

Google

The team at Leverton & Sons are incredible. We worked with Craig Parker who could not have been more friendly and professional. There is not one element of the service provided that we could find a fault with. We hope to not need to, of course, but if we do require funeral services again any time soon we will most certainly be working with Craig and Leverton & Sons again. Thank you very much Craig and team.

Review by Scott O left on 22 Dec 2025

TRUSTist

Drew at Leverton & Sons was a godsend. We met him amid shock and grief, unable to think clearly or know what to do, and he held our hand every step of the way. He never tried to sell—he simply listened, understood our needs, and offered guidance and information, going above and beyond. On the day of the funeral, he and his team showed immense respect and dignity, handling everything with such care. We could not have found better for such a dignified funeral and will be forever grateful. Highly recommend.

Review by Raha C left on 17 Dec 2025

Google

Excellent 5-star ratings for attentive and respectful funeral arrangements.

Review by Tracy D left on 11 Dec 2025

Google

Longstanding family firm That our family have always used excellent service they really have a good reputation and provide dignity and attention to detail. really helpful Leverton are a respected London funeral director for many years and has handled high-profile funerals.

Review by Tracey D left on 11 Dec 2025

TRUSTist

Once again, you have given my family a funeral they deserved you done my dad my brother and now my mum and throughout the care and professionalism is unbelievable, nothing was too big and they accommodated with everything highly recommended Leverton’s

Review by Guido H left on 09 Dec 2025

TRUSTist

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