Arrive early
Aim to arrive 15 to 20 minutes before the service. It gives you time to park, find the right building, and be seated before the family arrives.
This matters most at a crematorium. Services there run to fixed time slots, one after another, so they start on time and can't overrun. If you arrive late, you may miss the service altogether. If it can't be helped, wait quietly at the back rather than walking in during it.
Check the details
Funerals are often in two places - a service at a church or chapel, then a burial or cremation somewhere else. Check the funeral notice or ask the family:
- where the service is, and the exact time
- whether there's a second part - a burial or committal - and whether guests are invited to it
- where the wake is, if there is one
Parking
Parking at crematoria and cemeteries can be limited, particularly when several funerals take place back to back. Share lifts where you can, and leave spaces nearest the entrance for the family and the funeral cars.
If you need help getting around
If you use a wheelchair or find walking difficult, contact the venue or the funeral director beforehand. Most venues have step-free access, but cemeteries can involve walking on grass or slopes.
Travelling a long way
If you're travelling far, book somewhere to stay the night before so you're not rushing on the day. Many families are grateful for a list of nearby hotels to share with guests.
Find hotels and venues near the funeral
Reviewed by the Arranging a Funeral team - September 2026.
More in this section
- Attending a funeral
- Deciding whether to go
- What to wear
- Getting to the funeral
- The funeral procession
- What happens at a funeral service
- After the funeral
- Funeral etiquette
Common questions
How early should I arrive for a funeral?
Aim for 15 to 20 minutes before the service, especially at a crematorium, where services run to fixed time slots and can't overrun.
What if I'm running late?
Wait quietly at the back rather than walking in during the service.
Is there parking at crematoria and cemeteries?
Often only a little, especially when several funerals take place back to back. Share lifts, and leave the spaces nearest the entrance for the family and funeral cars.
What if I have difficulty walking?
Contact the venue or the funeral director beforehand. Most venues have step-free access, but cemeteries can involve grass and slopes.