Choosing a coffin or casket that best reflects and celebrates an individual’s life is an important step in organising a funeral. With a wide range of options available, from traditional caskets to eco-friendly options, there is an option suited to honour every life with dignity, respect, and care. If you’re searching for a coffin for yourself or a loved one, we’re here to help.
The main differences between coffins and caskets are their shape and style. Coffins typically have a tapered shape, that is wider at the shoulders and narrower at the head and feet. Caskets hold a more rectangular shape, with a straight line from top to bottom. Either choice can be personalised both in the interior and on the exterior to provide a dignified resting place.
There is no right or wrong decision, both options are appropriate, it all just comes down to personal preference and budget. Our team of dedicated funeral home staff are here to help you decide on which option may be best for you.
In the UK, coffins generally start at a lower price than caskets, however, it can depend on which design you choose. Basic coffins made from simple materials like cardboard or basic wood often start at £270, while caskets start at £710. Premium coffins and caskets can cost more, depending on material and personalisation. Those with richer wood finishes such as mahogany and solid oak, or with more elaborate interiors, can cost upwards of £1800. Environmentally friendly options can cost as little as £270, with prices varying depending on the material chosen.
Mid-range coffins and caskets include the option to add pictures for an additional price. Choosing a more bespoke interior such as adding frills and mattresses can also add to overall cost.
With prices varying widely, it’s a good idea to discuss what may be best suited to you with a funeral director and compare price lists, especially if budget is an important factor. Book an appointment with your local funeral home for more information.
There are many different types of coffins available that are designed to suit varying personal wishes, traditions, and budgets. The most common types include:
We also offer a range of different casket options that you can browse through in our brochure to find the right one to fit your preferences.
If being mindful about your environmental impact is a priority for you, the most eco-friendly coffins suitable for cremation are made from natural, sustainably-sourced materials that break down easily and emit minimal toxins when cremated. These materials include cardboard, wicker, willow, and bamboo, all of which are fully biodegradable, and are considered the most eco-friendly cremation options as they burn cleanly with lower emissions compared to others.
When choosing an eco-friendly cremation option, check whether the coffin you choose has eco-certifications such as FSC-certified wood and recycled content, and ask your funeral director about cremation emissions policies. If you’re interested in learning more about environmentally conscious funerals, head on over to our ‘Is an eco-friendly funeral right for you?’ blog.
Most coffins are typically lined with materials chosen for comfort, appearance, and practicality. The lining can vary depending on tradition, budget, and whether it’s for burial or cremation. The most common coffin fabric linings are those made from cotton, satin, velvet, and linen. These all offer varying finishes, some more luxurious than others, and are all at different price points.
You can also choose for the lining to include padding such as wadding and foam to provide cushioning beneath the fabric, providing a softer look and more shape. Most linings include a mattress-style base liner, side and lid lining, a head rest, and a gown or shroud. We offer the choice of four different gown sets included within the price of each coffin, in either white pink, blue, or sable. Other colours and designs are available by special request.
When deciding on a coffin gown lining, there are three key considerations to keep in mind:
If you’re not sure where to start when deciding on a lining, our team is happy to assist you.
For further guidance on choosing a coffin, and other elements of a funeral, get in touch with our team of funeral directors today to start planning the perfect send-off.
Our experienced colleagues can help assist you to find the right coffin or casket that is suited to your, or your loved ones’ wishes.
