top of page

The Full Story

Arranging a Funeral

Step-by-Step, With Real Support

Arranging a funeral can feel overwhelming. We make it simple, guiding you through every decision with clear answers and caring support.

What to Do First

  • If someone has died and you need help now: Call us on 01522 754 154. We’re available 24/7 and will guide you through every step.

  • Not sure what to do? Start with our step-by-step guide or call us directly. We’ll help you make sense of what needs to happen, in plain language.

Your Choices, Made Simple

  • Burial or Cremation: Choose a natural burial at our Orchard, a cremation at Lincoln Crematorium, or a combination. We explain all options clearly, including timeframes and what’s involved.

  • Coffins & Caskets: Options include eco-cardboard, oak veneer, and handmade wicker. We’ll help you choose what feels right.

  • Flowers & Tributes: Use your own florist or ours. Many families choose a simple floral tribute and donations to a good cause—but it’s always your choice.

  • Music & Readings: We’ll help you plan music and readings that matter to you. No right or wrong—just what feels fitting.

  • Transport: From modern, informal hearses to traditional vehicles, we arrange what suits your wishes and budget.

  • Wakes: Whether at home, a local venue, or the nature reserve, we’ll help you organise a gathering that feels right for your family.

Our Promise

  • We guide you, never rush you.

  • We handle all paperwork and logistics.

  • You always know what’s happening next.

Need Help?

Call 01522 754 154 or email orchardfuneralservices@gmail.com. We’re here to make things as clear and stress-free as possible.

Natural burial at the orchard burial ground

Burial or Cremation?

The first question to answer is whether would you like a burial service held at the Orchard, a cremation at Lincoln Crematorium, or a combination of both. 

All the options for this are listed on our Prices page.

Services at the crematorium are limited to 40 minutes (double bookings are possible but incur an additional fee) whereas a burial service; be it a full service or burial of ashes, has no time limit attached. 

Calendar

When will it take place?

Typically, a funeral will take place within 7 - 10 days from the date of passing. There may, however, be times when this could take longer. Should there be need for the coroner to be involved, it could take up to an extra 10 days before the funeral can take place. 

Once the person who has died is with us, burials can take place within a few days if required and cremations usually within a week. It mainly depends on when the family can make all the other necessary arrangements and we work closely with you to give ease to this process. 

orchard funeral services
Eco-Friendly Wicker Coffins from Orchard Funeral Services
Natural wicker coffin from orchard funeral services

Choosing a coffin

Our most popular types of coffin/casket to choose from are:

Eco-Cardboard Casket

Oak Veneer Coffin

Handmade Wicker Casket

We can however provide a wide range of caskets and coffins, just ask us for more details. 

Recommended Vendors from Orchard Funeral Services

Flowers and Donations

When it comes to floral tributes the choice is yours. We work with some fantastic florists who create absolutely beautiful tributes to your loved ones. 

Click here to see a list of vendors we have worked with and can highly recommend.

Many people will opt for a floral display for the top of the coffin and then ask guests to donate to a good cause instead of bringing flowers themselves, this, however, is completely up to you, there is no right or wrong decision

Orchard funeral services flowers
Calendar
Funeral music with orchard funeral services

Music & Readings

It's important to discuss what you would like to be said or read out during the service. There is no right or wrong decision and we often advise keeping a notepad nearby for the days and weeks leading up the the service so you can jot down ideas and thoughts as they come to you. 

 

Generally speaking (though it's entirely your choice) services at the crematorium will include 3 pieces of music: entrance, reflection, and end. 

In contrast, there are no limits to the number of pieces you can play during a service at The Orchard Burial Ground, Whisby Nature Park, International Bomber Command Centre, The Lincoln County Assembly Rooms or other private venues. 

Transport

For the transportation of your loved one, we use a modern hearse for the majority of our funerals as families prefer the discretion it provides. We can also arrange traditional hearses as well as horse drawn and motorcycle hearses. 

Most people choose to get to and from the funeral using their own transport. If, however, you would like to be transported by limousine, we can help you with those arrangements. 

Informal Hearse1.png
Calendar
Friends at Lunch

Wakes

Once the service is concluded you may wish to hold a wake. This could be held at home or you may wish to hire a venue such as a pub, restaurant or village hall. 

 

Consider what type of event you wish to host. Will there be food and drink available, caterers or a sit down meal, will there be music etc. 

We're here to help

Arranging a funeral can be a stressful experience at an already difficult time. 

Unlike most funeral directors, we are here to help you through the entire process. If you need help

arranging any part of your funeral please do not hesitate to get in touch with us. 

bottom of page