The Chapel
The Crematorium chapel/ceremony hall has seating for 94 people downstairs and 36 people in the gallery. There is also standing room in the entrance hall. Within the Chapel there are fresh flowers on display and two further silk displays. All are in white and green.
There are two service times available at 9.00 and 9.30 which are thirty minutes and are at a reduced fee.
From Monday to Friday services take place at forty minute intervals from 10am to 4.40 pm. The forty minutes includes the time it takes for to people to takes their seats in the chapel and to leave the chapel.
We advise people to have a double service time (80 minutes) if for example you are expecting a large number of people to attend (over 75 people) and when there is likely to be many personal tributes, several pieces of music and/or hymns. The officiant, who is taking your service and/or the Funeral Director can advise you. Please be mindful if your service overruns it has an impact on all services following that day, which can cause upset to other bereaved families.
Longer service times may also be arranged. If this is required, please speak to your Funeral Director or a member of our staff.
Saturday and Sunday service times may also be available. This will depend on the availability of staff. However, most requests can usually be met. We do not offer services on bank holidays.
Dogs and some other pets are often important family members and they are welcome to attend.
Why we do not offer direct cremations
At Mortlake Crematorium, we believe that a funeral can be a meaningful and personal opportunity to say goodbye to someone who has died.
We understand that every family is different, and that some people may not wish to attend a funeral service. However, we believe that the person arranging the funeral should always know when and where the cremation is taking place, so that they have the choice to attend if they wish.
At Mortlake, every person who has died is brought through our Chapel for their cremation. If the family wishes, music can be played as part of this moment, even if nobody attends in person. We believe that this provides a respectful and dignified farewell to every person in our care.
Take a moment to consider your options
Direct cremations have become increasingly popular, and they are sometimes presented as a simple or lower-cost alternative to a traditional funeral. However, it is worth checking exactly what is included in the funeral package you choose and where the cremation will take place.
At Mortlake Crematorium, our cremation fee is the same whether or not family and friends attend the service. In some cases, this can also work out considerably less expensive than a direct cremation that takes place some distance away.
Most importantly, we want families to have clear information and genuine choice at a difficult time. You do not have to have a large funeral or a formal service to have a meaningful farewell. Some people choose just to be with the person who has died, in quiet reflection.
We are always happy to talk through the options available at Mortlake Crematorium and answer any questions you may have, without obligation.
Words & Music
There are no restrictions on how you use your time in the chapel and you are free to have any prayers, readings, poetry and eulogies that you feel will be most appropriate.
