Funeral Costs in Ludlow: What Local Families Can Expect to Pay
- Adam Peregrine
- Oct 6
- 4 min read
If you’ve recently lost someone or are planning ahead for the future, one of the first questions that often comes up is: how much is a funeral going to cost? It's a topic that many people shy away from, but at S. Hoskins & Son, we believe it’s important to be open, honest, and transparent, especially when emotions are already running high.
As a long-standing independent funeral director serving Ludlow and the surrounding area, we’ve supported generations of local families through some of their most difficult days. And one thing we’ve learned over the years is that no two funerals are ever quite the same - which is why costs can vary.
This blog is designed to give you a clearer idea of what to expect when it comes to funeral prices in Ludlow, based on the type of service you choose, third-party fees, and your personal wishes.
Why Talk About Funeral Costs at All?
There’s a growing awareness nationally about funeral affordability, especially after the collapse of pre-paid funeral giants like Dignity plc. Understandably, many families are now more cautious when it comes to cost and value.
We don’t believe in hiding prices behind phone calls or vague ‘from’ statements. Whether you're arranging something today or just gathering information, knowing what to expect can give you a greater sense of control and peace of mind.
So, What Does a Funeral Actually Cost in Ludlow?
The total cost of a funeral depends on several things:
The type of service (traditional, cremation, unattended, etc.)
Whether it’s attended or not
Your choice of crematorium or cemetery
Any extras you choose (coffin type, vehicles, flowers, etc.)
Here at S. Hoskins & Son, we offer three main funeral options that cover most families’ needs. Here's a closer look at each.
Direct Cremation – from £1,560
If you’re looking for a simple, no-fuss farewell, a direct cremation might be the right choice. It’s an unattended cremation without a formal service, ideal for families who want something low-key or are planning a separate celebration of life later.
What's included?
Collection from place of death (within 35 miles)
Care of the person before the cremation
Simple coffin and transport to the crematorium
All necessary paperwork, including doctors and coroner
Cremation fees included
Ashes can be collected or scattered at the crematorium
What's not included?
Visits to our Chapel of Rest
Funeral service, limousines, officiants, or printed orders of service
This is often chosen by families who value simplicity or who are dealing with a tight timeframe or budget.
Limited Cremation – from £2,550
For those who want to attend the service but keep things modest, a limited cremation offers a balance between cost and ceremony. These services typically take place at 9:00am in participating local crematoria that offer reduced fees for early slots.
What’s included?
Everything from the direct cremation, plus:
Hearse and bearers
Short, respectful attended service
Funeral director present to lead and coordinate
Use of the crematorium chapel
Optional extras:
Use of Chapel of Rest: £100
Out-of-hours collection: £190
Home visit to make arrangements: £25
It's a simple but meaningful option for families who want to say goodbye in person without all the formalities of a traditional funeral.
Traditional Funeral – from £1,650 + third-party costs
This is the most familiar format for many families; a fully attended funeral with the option of a church service, a procession, hymns, floral tributes, and more.
Our funeral director’s charge covers:
24/7 availability and personal support
Collection and care of the deceased
All admin, including clergy/crematorium liaison
Use of our on-site 1930s Chapel of Rest (office hours)
Hearse and staff for the day of the funeral
Guidance throughout the entire process
Extras you may choose to add:
Coffin: (veneered from £475, willow/oak from £850)
Limousine: £240
Order of service printing: £50 set-up + £1.50 per copy
Grave preparation: £450
Additional bearers: £60 each
Disbursements (third-party fees we pay on your behalf):These vary, but may include:
Crematorium or cemetery fees
Clergy or celebrant charges
Flowers, newspaper notices, catering, etc.
Local crematorium fees range from:
Hereford: £924
Shrewsbury: £999
Wyre Forest: £1,230
Ludlow Cemetery (double grave): £992
West Hope: £870
Hereford Cemetery (double grave): £2,470
This type of funeral is best suited to families looking for a full, personalised service with flexibility in ceremony, venue, and commemoration.
Please note - pricing is subject to change.
Local, Honest & Always Personal
Unlike many larger firms, we don’t work on volume. We care for just 50–60 families each year, which allows us to give you our full attention, no call centres, no unfamiliar faces.
Stephen, our funeral director, is the person who answers the phone, meets with you, and stands beside you on the day of the funeral. And if you don’t have a minister in mind, he can also officiate as a trained celebrant.
When you come to S. Hoskins & Son, it’s personal. It always has been.
Are There Cheaper Options?
Yes, but it’s important to understand what’s included and what’s not. Some national providers advertise very low-cost funerals, but once you add transport, paperwork, or care of the deceased, the costs start creeping up.
We prefer to show you everything up front, so you know exactly where your money is going.
And if you’re just planning ahead, we also offer a Funeral Wishes service, a no-obligation meeting where we record your preferences and provide today’s costs. You don’t pay anything up front, and your wishes are kept on file for when they’re needed.
So, What Should You Do Next?
Whether you’re in urgent need or simply want to be prepared, we’re here to help. We serve families across Ludlow and nearby areas including Craven Arms, Cleobury Mortimer, Tenbury Wells, Leintwardine and more.
Talking about funeral costs isn’t easy. But knowing what to expect, and who you’re dealing with, makes all the difference.
At S. Hoskins & Son Funeral Directors, we’ve been serving the local community since 1878. Our aim has always been to make every family feel supported, respected, and informed, no matter the size of the funeral or the budget.
If you have any questions at all, we're only ever a phone call away.
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