Crematorium & Cemetery Information

Every crematorium has its own facilities, procedures and character. The purpose of these guides is simply to help you know what to expect, making one small part of an emotionally challenging time feel a little more familiar.

Howe Bridge Crematorium

Opened in 2000, Howe Bridge Crematorium is a relatively modern chapel designed to accommodate both religious and non-religious funeral services. Thoughtfully planned and set within attractive, well-maintained grounds, it provides a welcoming setting in which to say goodbye.

Before you arrive

Parking is usually straightforward, with a large car park close to the chapel entrance and two overflow car parks available if required. The smaller overflow car park is often home to a coffee kiosk. Where exceptionally large funerals are expected, staff can help direct vehicles into additional parking areas if given advance notice. Shortly before reaching the chapel, the hearse and any following limousines separate from other vehicles that may be following and continue to the chapel entrance.

Inside the chapel

The chapel seats 82 people. If attendance exceeds the available seating, visitors may also sit along the window ledges. Standing room is available at the rear, while the entrance foyer allows others to continue following the service via a screen and discreet audio. Individual chairs may be removed for wheelchair users. The chapel is carpeted and includes a quality lectern with an adjustable microphone.

How long is a service?

Main chapel services usually begin every hour at half past the hour. Although bookings are made hourly, the chapel itself is not available for a full sixty minutes because staff need time between services. A well-planned ceremony will often last around 35–40 minutes. Additional chapel time can usually be arranged through your funeral director, although this involves an additional crematorium fee.

A typical ceremony

  • Entrance music
  • Words of Welcome
  • Reading or poem
  • Eulogy and tributes
  • Reflection music (often with photographs or a visual tribute)
  • Reading, prayer or further reflection
  • Acknowledgements
  • Words of Farewell
  • Closing music

Every funeral is unique. This is simply a guide and can always be adapted.

Words of Farewell

Many crematoria refer to this part of the ceremony as the committal. Around fifteen years ago I began using the expression ‘Words of Farewell’. Towards the conclusion of the ceremony, families may choose whether a curtain positioned behind the coffin remains open or closes. The coffin remains on the catafalque throughout and does not move.

Facilities

  • 82 seats
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Obitus music and visual tribute system
  • Waiting room with complimentary drinking water
  • Accessible toilets
  • First aid equipment and defibrillator
  • Well-maintained gardens

After the service

The exit is at the front right of the chapel, leading to a sheltered gathering area where limousines will usually be waiting.

My thoughts

Having conducted many hundreds of services at Howe Bridge over the years, I have always found the staff to be welcoming, professional and accommodating. Their kindness, attention to detail and willingness to help often make a genuine difference during what is already an emotionally challenging time.