Funeral Directors in Manchester: Compare Costs & Reviews
Manchester has dozens of funeral directors across the city and Greater Manchester area, with prices varying significantly between providers. This guide helps you understand Manchester funeral costs, find trusted local directors, and save money by comparing quotes.
Manchester Funeral Costs at a Glance
- ✓Direct cremation: £1,200-£1,800
- ✓Simple cremation with service: £2,000-£2,700
- ✓Traditional cremation: £3,800-£5,200
- ✓Traditional burial: £4,500-£6,500
Compare Manchester Funeral Directors
Get detailed quotes from 3 trusted funeral directors in your Manchester area. Compare prices, services, and availability. Free, no obligation.
Get Manchester Funeral Quotes →Average Funeral Costs in Manchester
Manchester funeral costs are roughly in line with the UK average, making the city more affordable than London but comparable to other major northern cities. Here's what you can expect to pay:
| Service Type | Manchester Cost | UK Average |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Cremation | £1,200-£1,800 | £1,000-£1,800 |
| Simple Cremation | £2,000-£2,700 | £1,800-£2,500 |
| Traditional Cremation | £3,800-£5,200 | £3,500-£4,200 |
| Traditional Burial | £4,500-£6,500 | £4,000-£5,500 |
What Affects Manchester Funeral Costs:
- →Crematorium fees: £700-£950 depending on location and time slot
- →Burial plot costs: £1,000-£3,000 depending on cemetery and grave type
- →Type of funeral director: Independent family firms vs national chains
- →Service level: Basic direct cremation vs full-service traditional funeral
What to Expect from Manchester Funeral Directors
Manchester has a strong tradition of community-focused funeral services, with many long-established family firms operating alongside national providers. Most funeral directors in Manchester offer:
Standard Services Include:
- • 24/7 removal and care of the deceased
- • Arrangement consultation (in person or at home)
- • Preparation and care of the deceased
- • Provision of coffin or casket
- • Hearse and transportation
- • Coordination with crematorium/cemetery
- • Handling of paperwork and registrations
Additional Services Available:
- • Chapel of rest viewings
- • Embalming and advanced care
- • Limousines for family members
- • Order of service printing
- • Floral tributes
- • Memorial stationery
- • Live streaming of services
Manchester Crematoriums
Manchester and Greater Manchester have several crematoriums serving different areas of the city. Choosing one closer to you can reduce transport costs and make it easier for mourners to attend:
Manchester Crematorium
Barlow Moor Road, Chorlton-cum-Hardy
- • Manchester's main crematorium
- • Three chapels (South, North, East)
- • 30-45 minute service slots
- • Book of remembrance and memorial gardens
Blackley Crematorium & Cemetery
Victoria Avenue, Blackley, North Manchester
- • Serves North Manchester area
- • Modern facilities
- • Burial ground on same site
- • Good parking facilities
Stockport Crematorium
Buxton Road, Heaviley, Stockport
- • Serves South Manchester and Stockport
- • Two chapels available
- • Pleasant memorial gardens
- • Easy access from M60
Bury Crematorium
Rochdale Old Road, Bury
- • Serves North Manchester and Bury
- • Modern chapel facilities
- • Memorial options available
- • Peaceful setting
Oldham Crematorium
Lees Road, Oldham
- • Serves East Manchester and Oldham
- • Two chapels: main and smaller chapel
- • Garden of remembrance
- • Various memorial options
Rochdale Crematorium
Bury Road, Rochdale
- • Serves North-East Greater Manchester
- • Large chapel with good facilities
- • Memorial garden and books
- • Ample parking
Save £800+ By Comparing Manchester Funeral Directors
Prices can vary by £800-£1,500 for the same service across Manchester funeral directors. Get detailed quotes from 3 providers and compare side-by-side.
Compare Manchester Funeral Directors →Types of Manchester Funeral Directors
Independent Family Firms
Manchester has several well-established independent funeral directors, many family-owned for multiple generations. These offer personal service and deep knowledge of local areas and communities.
Examples: J. E. Gillman & Sons, Fred Hamer Funeral Services, Paul Merchant Funeral Services
Price range: £3,200-£5,000 for traditional service
National Chains
Large companies like Co-op Funeralcare, Dignity, and Funeral Partners operate multiple branches across Manchester, offering standardized services and nationwide coverage.
Examples: Co-op Funeralcare (multiple branches), Dignity Funeral Directors
Price range: £3,500-£5,500 for traditional service
Direct Cremation Providers
Specialist providers offering affordable, no-frills direct cremation without a traditional funeral service. These operate mainly online and by phone.
Examples: Pure Cremation, Simplicity Cremations, Newrest Funerals
Price range: £1,200-£1,800 for direct cremation
Muslim Funeral Directors
Manchester has several funeral directors specializing in Islamic funerals, providing services in accordance with Muslim traditions and burial requirements.
Examples: Manchester Islamic Funeral Service, Noor Ul Islam Funeral Services
Price range: £2,000-£4,000 depending on requirements
How to Choose a Manchester Funeral Director
1. Get Multiple Quotes
Prices vary significantly across Manchester. Always compare at least 3 funeral directors to ensure you're getting fair value.
2. Check Reviews and Reputation
Look at Google reviews and local recommendations. Manchester has a strong community feel, so personal recommendations from neighbors can be valuable.
3. Request Itemized Pricing
Ask for a detailed, written quote showing exactly what's included. Avoid vague "packages from £X" pricing—you need transparency.
4. Consider Location
A funeral director near your chosen crematorium or cemetery can reduce transportation costs. Manchester's traffic can also affect timing.
5. Ask About Cultural Expertise
If you need specific cultural or religious customs observed, ensure the funeral director has experience with your requirements.
6. Check Availability
Manchester crematoriums can be busy, especially on Fridays and weekends. Book early if you have specific date requirements.
Ways to Save Money on a Manchester Funeral
Choose Direct Cremation
At £1,200-£1,800, this is Manchester's most affordable option. Hold a separate memorial if desired.
Book Off-Peak Times
Early morning or midweek slots can be £100-£200 cheaper at some Manchester crematoriums.
Skip Limousines
Save £150-£300 by having family members use their own cars.
Choose Simple Coffin
Basic veneer coffins work just as well and save £200-£1,000 compared to premium options.
Compare Quotes
The single most effective way to save—can reduce costs by £800-£1,500 for identical services.
Hold Wake at Home or Pub
Avoid expensive venue hire. Many Manchester pubs offer function rooms at reasonable rates.
Use Local Florists
Funeral directors often mark up flowers by 50-100%. Source tributes directly from Manchester florists.
Print Your Own Order of Service
Save £50-£150 by designing and printing service sheets yourself or using online printing services.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a funeral cost in Manchester?
Direct cremation costs £1,200-£1,800, simple cremation with service £2,000-£2,700, traditional cremation £3,800-£5,200, and traditional burial £4,500-£6,500. Prices vary by funeral director and service level.
Which is the cheapest crematorium in Manchester?
Crematorium fees are set by the local authority and are similar across Manchester at £700-£950. Direct cremation providers offer the lowest overall costs at £1,200-£1,800 including all fees.
Do I need to use a funeral director in the same area of Manchester?
No, you can use any Manchester funeral director regardless of location. However, choosing one near your preferred crematorium or cemetery can reduce transport costs and simplify logistics.
How long does it take to arrange a funeral in Manchester?
Typically 2-3 weeks from death to funeral. This allows time for registering the death, obtaining necessary certificates, and booking a crematorium slot. Urgent arrangements can sometimes be made within a week.
Are Manchester funeral directors regulated?
Yes, reputable funeral directors are members of professional bodies like the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) or the National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF), which require adherence to codes of practice.
Can I get help with funeral costs in Manchester?
If you're on certain benefits, you may be eligible for a Funeral Expenses Payment (up to £1,000 for burial or cremation fees). Contact the Funeral Expenses Payment helpline or apply through GOV.UK.
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Get Free Manchester Quotes →Related Guides
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