Buddhist funeral directors in the UK

Buddhist funerals vary by tradition and culture, but most are simple, reflective ceremonies focused on impermanence and on helping the person who died towards a good rebirth. Cremation is most common, monks or teachers may chant, and many families hold further ceremonies at seven-day intervals up to 49 days after death. FuneralFinder lists 0 specialist funeral directors and 113 Buddhist temples and centres across the UK, with local Buddhist funeral guides for 99 towns and cities.

Buddhist funeral services by town

Where the most Buddhist temples and centres are

Buddhist funerals: key facts

Burial or cremation	Cremation is most common; burial is acceptable
Who leads	A monk, nun or lay teacher from the family’s tradition — Theravada, Mahayana, Tibetan, Zen and others
Key practices	Chanting, meditation on impermanence and merit-making (giving) on behalf of the person who died
After death	Ceremonies at weekly intervals up to 49 days are common, especially in Chinese and Tibetan traditions

Read the full guide to Buddhist funerals →

Frequently asked questions

Do Buddhists get cremated or buried?

Cremation is most common, following the example of the Buddha, but burial is also acceptable.

What is the 49-day period?

Many Buddhist traditions believe rebirth happens within 49 days of death, so families hold prayers or ceremonies at seven-day intervals during this time.