What to do with ashes after cremation: your options explained

Keeping the ashes

There is no legal time limit on keeping ashes, and no requirement ever to scatter or bury them. Many families keep ashes at home in an urn or casket while they decide, or keep them permanently. Ashes can also be divided so that several relatives each keep a portion — this is entirely lawful in the UK.

Scattering the ashes

Scattering is the most common choice. No UK law prohibits it, but you need the landowner’s permission on private land, and the Environment Agency publishes guidance for scattering on rivers and at sea. Our dedicated guide to scattering ashes in the UK covers the law, permissions and where you can do it.

Burying the ashes

Ashes can be buried in a cemetery or churchyard — in a dedicated ashes plot, an existing family grave, or a garden of remembrance — usually with the cemetery or church’s permission and a fee, and often with a memorial stone or plaque. Ashes can also be buried in your own garden without permission, though they then remain with the property if you move.

Memorial keepsakes

A small portion of ashes can be turned into a lasting keepsake while the rest is kept or scattered. UK specialists offer memorial jewellery, glasswork, and even commemorative diamonds, as well as memorial trees grown in a biodegradable urn. These services are not price-regulated, so compare providers carefully before committing.

Taking your time

There is no need to decide quickly. Because there is no legal deadline, many families keep the ashes for months or years and mark the choice with a small ceremony when the time feels right. Whatever you choose, the cremation price you paid already covered the return of the ashes if it was a direct cremation.