Funeral Directors in Edinburgh: Compare Costs & Reviews 2025

Edinburgh has a strong tradition of dignified funeral services, with costs typically 10-15% lower than London but still above the Scottish average. This guide helps you understand Edinburgh funeral prices, navigate Scottish funeral customs, and save money by comparing quotes.

Edinburgh Funeral Costs at a Glance

✓Direct cremation: £1,200-£1,800
✓Simple cremation with service: £2,000-£2,600
✓Traditional cremation: £3,800-£5,000
✓Traditional burial: £4,500-£6,500

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Average Funeral Costs in Edinburgh

Edinburgh funeral costs are generally 10-15% higher than the Scottish average but more affordable than London. The city's mix of historic family firms and modern providers offers good choice at competitive prices.

Service Type	Edinburgh Cost	Scottish Average
Direct Cremation	£1,200-£1,800	£1,000-£1,600
Simple Cremation	£2,000-£2,600	£1,700-£2,300
Traditional Cremation	£3,800-£5,000	£3,200-£4,200
Traditional Burial	£4,500-£6,500	£3,800-£5,500

Why Edinburgh Costs More Than Rural Scotland:

→Urban crematorium fees: £700-£1,000 vs £500-£800 in rural areas
→Capital city property costs: Higher overheads for funeral director premises
→Burial plots: £2,000-£6,000 in Edinburgh vs £800-£2,500 in smaller towns
→Higher service demand: Busy city with limited crematorium slots

Edinburgh Crematoriums & Cemeteries

Edinburgh has several crematoriums and historic cemeteries serving the city and surrounding areas. Choosing the right location can reduce transport costs and accommodate family preferences:

Mortonhall Crematorium

Edinburgh's main crematorium, located in the south of the city. Modern facilities with multiple chapels.

Howdenhall Road, Edinburgh EH17 8YH

Seafield Crematorium

Located in Leith, serving north and east Edinburgh. Scenic coastal location.

10 Eastfield Road, Edinburgh EH15 1SN

Warriston Cemetery

Historic Victorian cemetery in north Edinburgh. Beautiful woodland burial ground.

Warriston Road, Edinburgh EH7 4HW

Dean Cemetery

Prestigious cemetery in the West End. Many notable Edinburgh residents buried here.

Dean Path, Edinburgh EH4 3AT

Rosebank Cemetery

Large cemetery in Pilrig serving north Edinburgh. Traditional and woodland burial options.

Pilrig Street, Edinburgh EH6 5AY

Mount Vernon Cemetery

South Edinburgh cemetery with crematorium. Well-maintained Victorian grounds.

Liberton Road, Edinburgh EH16 6RY

Scottish Funeral Customs

Edinburgh funerals often reflect traditional Scottish customs and practices that may differ from elsewhere in the UK:

The Wake or "Lykewake"

Traditionally held the night before the funeral, family and friends gather to pay respects. Modern wakes in Edinburgh often take place after the funeral at a local hotel or pub.

No Flowers Custom

Some Edinburgh families follow the tradition of "family flowers only," requesting donations to charity instead. This is common but not universal.

Coffin Shouldering

Male family members or friends traditionally shoulder the coffin from hearse to church and church to graveside, rather than using a wheeled bier.

Presbyterian Tradition

Many Edinburgh funerals follow Church of Scotland (Presbyterian) customs: simple, dignified services with hymns, prayers, and eulogies.

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Types of Edinburgh Funeral Directors

Traditional Edinburgh Firms

Long-established family funeral directors, many operating for generations. They understand Edinburgh funeral customs and have strong relationships with local crematoriums and cemeteries.

Price range: £3,200-£5,000 for traditional service

National Providers

Companies like Co-op Funeralcare and Dignity operate multiple branches across Edinburgh with standardized pricing and transparent costs.

Price range: £3,500-£5,500 for traditional service

Direct Cremation Specialists

Modern providers offering simple, affordable cremation without ceremony. Services like Pure Cremation and Simplicity operate throughout Scotland.

Price range: £1,200-£1,800 for direct cremation

How to Choose an Edinburgh Funeral Director

1. Get Multiple Quotes

Edinburgh funeral directors vary significantly in price. Compare at least 3 to ensure you're getting fair value.

2. Check Local Reputation

Edinburgh is a tight-knit community. Ask neighbors and friends for recommendations, and check Google reviews carefully.

3. Understand Scottish Practices

Ensure your funeral director understands Scottish funeral customs and can advise on local traditions if you wish to observe them.

4. Request Itemized Quotes

Ask for detailed written quotes showing exactly what's included. Avoid vague "packages" without clear breakdowns.

5. Check Crematorium Access

Edinburgh crematoriums can be busy, especially Mortonhall. Ensure your funeral director can secure your preferred date and time.

Ways to Save Money on an Edinburgh Funeral

Choose Direct Cremation

At £1,200-£1,800, this is significantly cheaper. Hold a memorial service separately at a location of your choice.

Use Weekday Slots

Tuesday-Thursday mornings are often cheaper than Friday or weekend slots at Edinburgh crematoriums.

Simple Coffin

Veneer or solid pine coffins are dignified and save £200-£1,000 compared to premium oak or mahogany.

Skip Limousines

Save £150-£250 by arranging your own transport. Edinburgh's compact size makes this practical.

Compare Quotes

The single most effective way to save. Can reduce costs by £500-£1,200 for identical services.

Hold Wake at Home or Pub

Edinburgh has excellent pubs and community venues. Avoid expensive hotel function rooms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Edinburgh funerals more expensive than other Scottish cities?

Yes, Edinburgh costs are typically 10-15% higher than Glasgow or Aberdeen due to capital city property costs and crematorium demand. However, they're still significantly cheaper than London.

Do I need to follow traditional Scottish funeral customs?

No. While many Edinburgh families observe traditional customs like shouldering the coffin or "family flowers only," modern funerals can be entirely personalized. Your funeral director will guide you based on your preferences.

How long does it take to arrange a funeral in Edinburgh?

Typically 1-2 weeks, though this can vary based on crematorium availability and whether a post-mortem is required. Edinburgh crematoriums are busy, so book early for specific dates.

Can I use an Edinburgh funeral director if I live outside the city?

Yes. Edinburgh funeral directors serve the wider Lothian region and beyond. However, consider potential additional transport costs if you're based far from Edinburgh.

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Funeral Directors in Edinburgh: Compare Costs & Reviews