Burial or cremation?
When someone dies, one of the first decisions to make is whether the funeral will be a burial or a cremation.
There is no right or wrong choice. For some families, the decision is guided by faith or tradition. For others, it is a personal preference, an environmental consideration, or a practical matter such as cost or location. At Thomas Brown & Sons, we will explain the options clearly and guide you gently through the arrangements so you can decide what feels right.
Burial
Almost all towns across the Borders have their own public cemetery, owned and maintained by Scottish Borders Council.
You may already have a family lair (burial plot). If so, we can check with the Council to confirm whether there is space available. If new ground is required, this can usually be purchased within local cemeteries. In most cases, a burial lair is sold to allow for two interments. We will explain the options available and handle the application process on your behalf.
Where can a burial service take place?
A burial may follow:
- A church or chapel service
- A service in our Melrose service room (which seats up to 45 people)
- A crematorium chapel or village hall
- Or a simple graveside service
We will help you choose the setting that feels most appropriate.
What happens at a burial?
Family and friends gather at the cemetery as the coffin is lowered into the grave. Some families choose a full committal service at the graveside; others prefer something shorter and more private. We will explain what to expect and ensure everything runs smoothly and respectfully.
How we support you
We will take care of all the practical arrangements, including:
- Liaising with the local authority
- Arranging clergy or celebrants
- Designing and printing the order of service
- Organising transport and cortege routes
- Music and livestream arrangements where required
- Floral tributes
- Coffin selection, including eco options
- Newspaper announcements
- Catering arrangements
- Guidance on memorial masonry
You do not need to manage these details yourself – we will coordinate everything carefully on your behalf.
Woodland burial
For those who would prefer a more natural setting, woodland burial is available locally at Shawfield Cemetery in Selkirk and at Hundy Mundy Wood near Mellerstain, Kelso.
These peaceful sites offer an alternative to traditional cemetery grounds. Woodland burials usually avoid conventional headstones, using natural markers or trees instead. We often suggest visiting the sites if you are considering this option, as each location has its own unique character.
Cremation
Cremations in the area take place at Borders Crematorium in Melrose, less than a mile from our funeral home.
The chapel seats 98 people and offers music, livestream and visual tribute facilities. We are also able to arrange cremations at other crematoria outwith the Scottish Borders if requested.
Cremation options
There are several types of cremation service available, ranging from simple unattended cremations through to fully attended traditional services.
Some families prefer a direct cremation with no service. Others choose an early morning or later service time. Many opt for a traditional funeral service either before or at the crematorium. We will explain each option clearly, including the differences in attendance, viewing arrangements and service length, so you can choose what feels most appropriate.
Full details of cremation options and costs can be found on our funeral costs page.
What happens to the ashes?
After the cremation, ashes are returned to the family. You may choose to:
- Collect them
- Have them scattered within the crematorium grounds
- Inter them in a cemetery
- Keep them privately
- Arrange memorial jewellery or keepsakes
There is no need to make this decision immediately, many families take time before deciding what feels right.
Not sure which to choose?
Choosing between burial and cremation often depends on personal beliefs, family traditions, environmental considerations or budget.
We will talk you through everything calmly and clearly, explain the practical differences, and provide transparent costs so you can make an informed decision. You are welcome to ask as many questions as you need.
Religious or non-religious funerals
Whether you are planning a traditional church service, a humanist ceremony, or something more personal, we can help you arrange a service that reflects your beliefs and the life of your loved one.
Talk to us
If you would like to discuss burial or cremation options, please get in touch. We are here to guide you through each step with care and respect.