Mason & Stokes Funeral Directors
0.2 miles54 Hewlett Road, Cheltenham, GL52 6AH
£2,804 attended funeral £1,859 direct cremation from their price list
Buddhist funeral directors & services in Cheltenham
We don’t yet list a specialist Buddhist funeral director near Cheltenham, but most local funeral directors can arrange a Buddhist funeral. There are 3 Buddhist temples and centres within 20 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 Cheltenham
We haven’t identified a specialist Buddhist funeral director close to Cheltenham yet. The funeral directors below can arrange Buddhist funerals — ask about their experience and facilities. Offer Buddhist funerals? Tell us.
Selim Smith & Co
0.6 miles74 Prestbury Road, Cheltenham, GL52 2DJ
£2,895 attended funeral £1,745 direct cremation from their price list
Alexander Burn Funeral Directors
0.6 milesCheltenham, GL50 3JA
WS Trenhaile Funeral Directors
0.8 miles175 London Road, Cheltenham, GL52 6HN
£2,895 attended funeral £1,745 direct cremation from their price list
Ian George (Funerals)
1.1 milesUnit 7 Maida Vale Business Centre, Maida Vale Road, Cheltenham, GL53 7ER
Ian George Funerals
1.2 milesCheltenham, GL51 8NW
Buddhist temples and centres near Cheltenham
A Buddhist temple or centre can often help with prayers, a faith leader.
- Akanishta Kadampa Buddhist Centre · 0.6 miles — 59 Whaddon Road, GL52 5NB · website
- Bright Earth · 18.5 miles — 34 Worcester Road, WR14 4AA
- Adhisthana · 19.2 miles
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 Cheltenham
- The doctor records the cause of death and the medical examiner reviews it.
- Register the death with Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham?
The nearest Buddhist temples and centres to Cheltenham include Akanishta Kadampa Buddhist Centre (0.6 miles), Bright Earth (18.5 miles), Adhisthana (19.2 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.