Buddhist funeral directors & services in Bristol
We don’t yet list a specialist Buddhist funeral director near Bristol, but most local funeral directors can arrange a Buddhist funeral. There are 5 Buddhist temples and centres within 17 miles. Buddhist funerals vary by tradition and culture, but most are simple, reflective ceremonies focused on impermanence and on helping the person who died towards a good rebirth.
Funeral directors near Bristol
We haven’t identified a specialist Buddhist funeral director close to Bristol yet. The funeral directors below can arrange Buddhist funerals — ask about their experience and facilities. Offer Buddhist funerals? Tell us.
Bristol, BS3 1DJ
Burnell Tovey Ltd
0.6 miles13 Bedminster Parade, Bristol, BS3 4JA
Divine Ceremony
1.2 miles2 Zetland Road, Bristol, BS6 7AE
R. Davies & Son Funeral Directors
1.3 miles9 Chessel St, Bristol, BS3 3DS
£2,795 attended funeral £1,545 direct cremation from their price list
Cotton & Sons
1.6 miles338-342 Stapleton Road, Easton, Bristol, BS5 0NN
Co-op Funeralcare
1.6 miles65-73 Church Rd, Bristol, BS5 9JR
Co-op Funeralcare
Buddhist temples and centres near Bristol
A Buddhist temple or centre can often help with prayers, a faith leader.
- Lam Rim Centre · 0.9 miles — 12 Victoria Place, Bedminster, Bristol, BS3 3BP
- Sakya Buddhist Centre · 1.4 miles — 121 Sommerville Road, Bristol, BS6 5BX
- Amitabha Buddhist Meditation Centre · 1.7 miles — Old Vicarage, Gloucester Road, Bishopston, Bristol, BS7 8NX
- Bristol Buddhist Centre · 1.7 miles — 162 Gloucester Road, Bishopston, Bristol, BS7 8NT
- Ton Boon Trust · 16.7 miles — 24 Bridge Street, Bradford on Avon, BA15 1BY · website
Buddhist funerals: what to expect
| Burial or cremation | Cremation is most common; burial is acceptable |
|---|---|
| Who leads | A monk, nun or lay teacher from the family’s tradition — Theravada, Mahayana, Tibetan, Zen and others |
| Key practices | Chanting, meditation on impermanence and merit-making (giving) on behalf of the person who died |
| After death | Ceremonies at weekly intervals up to 49 days are common, especially in Chinese and Tibetan traditions |
Etiquette for guests
- What to wear: Simple, modest clothing. White is traditional in many East Asian communities; dark, plain clothes are also common. Remove shoes in a temple.
- What to say: Quiet words of sympathy. Many people simply bow slightly with hands together.
- Flowers: White flowers are usually appropriate; avoid red, which can signify celebration.
Practical steps in Bristol
- The doctor records the cause of death and the medical examiner reviews it.
- Register the death with Bristol, City of register office within 5 days of the medical examiner’s office confirming the death can be registered. How to register.
- Contact a funeral director and your Buddhist temple or centre — they can help arrange the key rites (Chanting, reflection and merit-making (dana)).
- Book the crematorium — see local options.
Repatriating someone abroad for burial · Help paying for a funeral
Frequently asked questions
Where can I find a Buddhist temple or centre near Bristol?
The nearest Buddhist temples and centres to Bristol include Lam Rim Centre (0.9 miles), Sakya Buddhist Centre (1.4 miles), Amitabha Buddhist Meditation Centre (1.7 miles).
Do Buddhists get cremated or buried?
Cremation is most common, following the example of the Buddha, but burial is also acceptable.
What is the 49-day period?
Many Buddhist traditions believe rebirth happens within 49 days of death, so families hold prayers or ceremonies at seven-day intervals during this time.
Buddhist funeral services in nearby towns
- Kingswood4 mi
- Patchway5 mi
- Trowbridge19 mi
- Calne26 mi
- Devizes27 mi
- Cheltenham38 mi
- Ledbury41 mi
- Bishop's Cleeve41 mi
- Malvern47 mi
- Oxford61 mi