Simplicity Cremations Review (2026)
Simplicity Cremations is one of the most recognized names in the UK direct cremation market. Backed by Dignity plc, one of the UK's largest funeral networks, they promise affordable, respectful, and fuss-free farewells. But are they the right choice for your family?
Who Are Simplicity Cremations?
Launched to provide a lower-cost alternative to traditional funerals, Simplicity Cremations leverages the massive infrastructure of Dignity plc. This means that while you are paying budget prices, the care of the deceased is handled by established, professional mortuaries and crematoria across their nationwide network.
Unlike some online-only brokers who outsource the care of the deceased, Simplicity owns their facilities, providing peace of mind regarding the chain of custody.
Simplicity Cremations Pricing & Packages
As of 2026, Simplicity offers a tiered pricing structure depending on the level of service you require:
- Unattended Direct Cremation (from £995): Their core package. No mourners, no service. Includes collection, care, a simple coffin, and the cremation fee.
- Intimate Cremation (from £1,395): Allows up to 12 people to attend a short, 10-minute committal at the crematorium. No officiant or formal service.
- Family Led Cremation (from £1,895): Allows a full-length service at the crematorium, giving you the time to arrange your own officiant, music, and eulogies.
Note: Prices can vary slightly based on location and specific requirements. Always request a full quote.
What is Included (and What Costs Extra)
Included in the base £995 price:
- Collection from a hospital or coroner (during working hours)
- Care in a quality climate-controlled facility
- A wood-effect coffin
- Cremation fees
Common Extra Costs:
- Doctor's Fees: Usually £82 (if applicable).
- Out of Hours / Home Collection: If the person passes away at home or a care home, there is often an additional fee for collection.
- Return of Ashes: Simplicity scatters ashes in their garden of remembrance for free. If you want the ashes returned to you, there is an additional charge (typically around £95).
Pros and Cons
Pros
- ✓ Backed by Dignity, ensuring high standards of care
- ✓ Nationwide coverage across the UK
- ✓ Options to attend (Intimate and Family Led packages)
- ✓ Transparent initial pricing
- ✓ Excellent 24/7 customer support team
Cons
- ✗ Hand-delivery of ashes costs extra
- ✗ Home collection often incurs a surcharge
- ✗ You cannot choose the specific crematorium for the Unattended package
- ✗ Not the absolute cheapest provider on the market
Who is Simplicity Cremations Best For?
Simplicity is an excellent choice if you want the reassurance of a major brand. If you are nervous about using a smaller, unknown online provider, Simplicity's connection to Dignity plc offers significant peace of mind. They are also ideal if you want a "middle ground" option—their Intimate Cremation package is perfect for families who want to be present for a few moments without the expense of a full traditional service.
How They Compare: Simplicity vs Pure Cremation
Pure Cremation is Simplicity's biggest rival. While Pure Cremation focuses almost exclusively on unattended direct cremations at their bespoke facility in Hampshire, Simplicity utilizes their vast network of local crematoria.
- Price: Simplicity's starting price (£995) is generally lower than Pure Cremation (£1,295).
- Ashes: Pure Cremation includes the return of ashes in their base price. Simplicity charges extra for this.
- Attendance: Simplicity offers attended options; Pure Cremation does not.
Customer Experience: What to Expect
Reviews for Simplicity Cremations are overwhelmingly positive. Customers frequently highlight the compassionate nature of their telephone staff. Because everything is arranged remotely, communication is key, and Simplicity excels at keeping families informed about when the cremation will take place and when ashes will be ready.
Compare Simplicity with Other Providers
See how Simplicity stacks up against local and national providers in your specific area.
Compare All ProvidersFrequently Asked Questions
Are Simplicity Cremations reliable?
Yes. As part of Dignity plc, they are highly regulated and use professional mortuary and crematorium facilities across the UK.
Do Simplicity Cremations return the ashes?
Yes, but it is not included in the absolute lowest base price. You must add the ashes return option to your package, which incurs a delivery fee.
Where do Simplicity cremations take place?
For unattended direct cremations, they will use one of Dignity's crematoria, usually the one most operationally convenient, which may not be your closest local crematorium.