Losing someone close to you can feel overwhelming, especially when you're unsure what needs to happen next. Whether the death occurred at home, in hospital, in a care home or elsewhere, there are organisations across Hackney that can provide practical help and support.This page has been created to guide you through the services available within the London Borough of Hackney. Here you'll find information about bereavement services, cemeteries, the Coroner, crematoriums, funeral directors, hospitals and the Register Office, together with helpful guidance to support you through each step of arranging a funeral.Hackney is home to a diverse community with many different faiths, cultures and traditions. Local services are experienced in supporting families with religious, non-religious and personalised funeral arrangements, ensuring that individual wishes and customs are respected.Whether you're arranging a burial, cremation or direct cremation, or simply looking for clear advice after the death of a loved one, we hope this guide helps make a difficult time a little easier.
Hackney Council provides bereavement services through its Cemeteries and Crematorium Team, supporting families with burial enquiries, cemetery services and memorials. Residents can also access guidance on registering a death and local support services through the council's website.Bereavement Services can help with:
AddressHackney Cemeteries Office
373 Manor Avenue
Stoke Newington
London N16 5RZTelephone020 8356 3000Emailbereavement.services@hackney.gov.ukWebsitehttps://hackney.gov.uk/cemeteriesOpening HoursMonday to Friday
9:00am – 5:00pmDescriptionHackney Bereavement Services manages the council's cemeteries and provides advice on burials, memorials, grave ownership and cemetery records. The team can also answer questions about local burial options and direct families to the appropriate services following a bereavement.
Hackney Council manages several cemeteries and memorial services within the borough. If you're unsure where a loved one is buried or need advice about an existing grave, Bereavement Services can assist with cemetery records and grave ownership enquiries.If you're arranging a funeral, your chosen funeral director will normally liaise directly with Bereavement Services to make the necessary bookings.
If you're considering a family grave, ask Bereavement Services to explain the different burial options and ownership rights before making your decision. Understanding how grave ownership works now can save your family unnecessary difficulties in the future.
Hackney Council manages several historic cemeteries that continue to serve the local community. These cemeteries provide burial plots, the interment of cremated remains and memorial facilities in peaceful surroundings. Some also have significant historical importance and are valued as green spaces and places of remembrance.For enquiries about burials, grave ownership, memorial permits or cemetery records, please contact Hackney Bereavement Services.Telephone: 020 8356 3000Email:bereavement.services@hackney.gov.uk
Address215 Stoke Newington High Street
London N16 0LHTelephone020 8356 3000Websitehttps://hackney.gov.uk/cemeteriesOpening HoursDaily – Please check the council website for seasonal opening times.DescriptionOpened in 1840, Abney Park Cemetery is one of London's famous Magnificent Seven cemeteries. Alongside its historical significance, it remains an active burial ground with areas dedicated to remembrance, wildlife conservation and quiet reflection.
Address278 The Roundway
London N17 7JTTelephone020 8356 3000Websitehttps://hackney.gov.uk/cemeteriesOpening HoursDaily – Please check the council website for current opening times.DescriptionClapton Cemetery has served the local community for many years and continues to provide burial and memorial facilities. The cemetery is maintained by Hackney Council and offers a peaceful setting for visitors paying their respects.
AddressSebert Road
Forest Gate
London E7 0NPTelephone020 8534 1486Websitehttps://www.mpark.co.ukOpening HoursPlease refer to the official website.DescriptionAlthough located just outside the borough, Manor Park Cemetery is frequently chosen by Hackney families. It offers burial and cremation services together with memorial gardens, chapels and a wide range of remembrance options.
Hackney Council can advise on new burial plots, reopening existing graves, the interment of cremated remains and memorial applications. If you already own a grave, permission from the registered grave owner is usually required before an additional burial or memorial can take place.Your funeral director can liaise directly with Bereavement Services to arrange burial dates and complete the necessary paperwork on your behalf.
Many families assume they must use the nearest cemetery, but that's not the case. You're free to choose a cemetery that has personal meaning to your loved one or your family, provided there is space available and the cemetery accepts new burials.
Some deaths must be reported to the Coroner by a doctor, hospital or the police. This is a normal legal process and does not necessarily mean that the death is suspicious. The Coroner is an independent judicial officer whose role is to investigate certain deaths and establish who died, and how, when and where they died.A death may be referred to the Coroner if:
If the Coroner becomes involved, they may decide that no further investigation is required, request a post-mortem examination or open an inquest. In many cases, the funeral can still take place before the inquest has been held once the necessary paperwork has been issued.
AddressEast London Coroner's Court
127 Poplar High Street
Poplar
London E14 0AETelephone020 7538 1200Emailcoroner@towerhamlets.gov.ukWebsitehttps://www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/lgnl/community_and_living/deaths/Coroners.aspxOpening HoursMonday to Friday
9:00am – 5:00pmDescriptionThe East London Coroner's Court serves the London Boroughs of Hackney, Tower Hamlets, Newham and Waltham Forest. The Coroner and Coroner's Officers support families throughout the investigation process, explaining what will happen and keeping them informed of any significant developments.
If the Coroner decides that no further investigation is necessary, the appropriate documentation will be sent to the Register Office so the death can be registered.If a post-mortem examination is required, the Coroner's Officer will explain the findings and advise you when the necessary paperwork has been completed. If an inquest is opened, the Coroner will explain the process and keep you informed of any hearing dates.
Although the Coroner's investigation must be completed before certain legal steps can take place, you do not have to wait before contacting a funeral director. Funeral arrangements can often begin while enquiries are ongoing, and your funeral director will liaise with the Coroner's Office where necessary.
Being told that a death has been referred to the Coroner can feel unsettling, but it's a routine part of many deaths. Don't hesitate to ask the Coroner's Officer questions—they're there to explain the process and help you understand what happens next.
The London Borough of Hackney does not operate its own crematorium. Families are free to choose any crematorium, and your funeral director can help you select the most appropriate venue based on location, availability, religious or cultural requirements and personal preference.The following crematoria are among the most commonly used by families living in Hackney.
AddressAldersbrook Road
Manor Park
London E12 5DQTelephone020 7606 3030Websitehttps://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/services/births-deaths-citizenship-and-marriages/cemetery-and-crematoriumOpening HoursPlease check the official website for current office and chapel opening times.Facilities
DescriptionOne of the largest municipal crematoria in Europe, the City of London Cemetery & Crematorium serves families from across London. It offers modern facilities alongside beautifully maintained gardens and a wide range of memorial choices.
Address230A Grange Road
Plaistow
London E13 0HBTelephone020 7476 5109Websitehttps://www.eastlondoncemetery.co.ukOpening HoursPlease check the official website for current opening times.Facilities
DescriptionEstablished in 1872, East London Cemetery & Crematorium offers cremation, burial and memorial services in peaceful surroundings. It is regularly chosen by families from Hackney and neighbouring boroughs.
AddressBrunswick Park Road
New Southgate
London N11 1JJTelephone020 8886 6147Websitehttps://www.dignityfunerals.co.uk/crematoria-and-cemeteries/crematoria/new-southgate-cemetery-crematorium/Opening HoursPlease check the official website for current opening times.Facilities
DescriptionNew Southgate Cemetery & Crematorium is another popular choice for families in North and East London. It provides traditional and contemporary funeral services together with a range of memorial options.
You are not restricted to using the nearest crematorium. Your chosen funeral director can arrange a funeral service at any crematorium with availability and will discuss the options with you, including service times, chapel facilities, webcasting and memorial choices.If you are planning a personalised service, ask your funeral director what music, visual tributes or live streaming facilities are available at your chosen crematorium.
If family or friends are travelling from abroad or cannot attend in person, ask whether the crematorium offers live webcasting or a recording of the service. Many now provide this as an option, helping everyone feel included, wherever they are.
Choosing a funeral director is one of the first decisions many families make after the death of a loved one. A funeral director can guide you through every stage of arranging the funeral, explain the options available and help ensure your loved one's wishes are respected.Below is a selection of funeral directors serving Hackney and the surrounding areas.
The funeral directors listed on this page are provided for information only to help you find local services in your area.The Funeral Companion does not endorse, recommend or affiliate with any funeral director listed. We do not receive commission or payment for including a business on our website, and listings are not ranked in any order of preference.We encourage you to contact more than one funeral director, compare the services they offer and obtain written quotations before making your decision. The choice of funeral director is entirely yours.
Address452–454 Mare Street
Hackney
London E8 1HPTelephone020 8985 0800Websitehttps://www.dignityfunerals.co.uk/funeral-directors/locations/england/london/hackney/452-454-mare-street/Opening HoursMonday to Friday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
24-hour service availableDescriptionA long-established funeral director serving Hackney and the surrounding communities, offering traditional, bespoke and contemporary funeral services together with pre-paid funeral plans.
Address255–257 Mare Street
Hackney
London E8 3NSTelephone020 8985 2296Websitehttps://www.dignityfunerals.co.uk/funeral-directors/locations/england/london/hackney/255-257-mare-street/Opening HoursMonday to Friday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
24-hour service availableDescriptionA respected funeral director with a long history of supporting families across Hackney, offering personalised funeral arrangements and compassionate care.
Address113–115 Stamford Hill
London N16 5DNTelephone020 8800 0245Websitehttps://www.levertons.co.ukOpening HoursMonday to Friday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
24-hour service availableDescriptionAn independent family-owned funeral director providing traditional, contemporary, environmentally friendly and bespoke funeral services across North and East London.
Address139 Stoke Newington High Street
London N16 0NYTelephone020 7254 3344Websitehttps://www.coop.co.uk/funeralcareOpening HoursMonday to Friday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
24-hour service availableDescriptionPart of the nationwide Co-op Funeralcare network, providing funeral arrangements, direct cremations, memorials and pre-paid funeral plans.
Address192 Lower Clapton Road
Hackney
London E5 8EGTelephone020 8985 3846Websitehttps://www.abrettandsons.co.ukOpening HoursMonday to Friday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
24-hour service availableDescriptionAn independent family-run funeral director with many years of experience supporting families throughout Hackney and the surrounding boroughs.
Most funeral directors provide a 24-hour service and can bring your loved one into their care at any time of the day or night. They will also liaise with hospitals, the Coroner, the Register Office, cemeteries and crematoria on your behalf, helping to make the arrangements as straightforward as possible.Remember that you are under no obligation to use the first funeral director you speak to. It's perfectly acceptable to obtain more than one quotation and compare services before making your decision.
A funeral director should never make you feel rushed or pressured into making decisions. Take your time, ask questions and choose someone who listens to your wishes. Feeling comfortable with the person guiding you through the arrangements is just as important as the price.
If a loved one dies in hospital, the hospital's Bereavement Team will guide you through the next steps. They can explain when the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) has been completed, advise when it has been sent to the Register Office and answer any questions you may have.
AddressHomerton Row
Hackney
London E9 6SRTelephone (Main Switchboard)020 8510 5555Websitehttps://www.homerton.nhs.ukOpening HoursOpen 24 hoursBereavement OfficeThe Bereavement Team supports families following the death of a loved one, working closely with the Medical Examiner Service to ensure the necessary documentation is completed before the death is registered. Families are advised not to attend the hospital until they have been contacted by the Bereavement Team.
Homerton University Hospital is the principal acute hospital serving the London Borough of Hackney. The Bereavement Team provides practical guidance following a death in hospital, including information about the Medical Examiner process, collection of personal belongings and the next steps before registering the death.
AddressWhitechapel Road
Whitechapel
London E1 1FRTelephone (Main Switchboard)020 7377 7000Websitehttps://www.bartshealth.nhs.uk/royal-londonDescriptionAlthough located in Tower Hamlets, The Royal London Hospital also serves many Hackney residents. Its Bereavement Office supports families following a death in hospital and provides guidance on the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD), the Medical Examiner process and registering the death.
The Medical Examiner Service independently reviews deaths that are not being investigated by the Coroner. A Medical Examiner or Medical Examiner Officer may contact the next of kin to:
This service provides an opportunity for families to ask questions before the death is formally registered.
If the death occurred in hospital, you do not normally need to collect the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death yourself. Once it has been completed and reviewed, it is usually sent electronically to the Register Office. The Bereavement Team will let you know when you're able to arrange the registration appointment.
It can be difficult waiting for a phone call from the hospital, but a short delay is often completely normal while the Medical Examiner reviews the paperwork. If you haven't heard anything after the timescale you've been given, it's perfectly reasonable to contact the Bereavement Team for an update—they'll be happy to explain where things are in the process.
The death of a loved one should normally be registered within five days in England and Wales, unless the death has been referred to the Coroner.Before you can register the death, the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) must have been completed by the doctor and reviewed by the Medical Examiner, or the Coroner must have issued the necessary documentation.
AddressHackney Town Hall
Mare Street
London E8 1EATelephone020 8356 3000Emailregistrars@hackney.gov.ukWebsitehttps://hackney.gov.uk/register-a-deathOpening HoursMonday to Friday
9:00am – 5:00pmAppointmentsDeath registrations are by appointment only. Once the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) has been received electronically, you'll be able to book an appointment with the Register Office.
The registrar will ask for information about the person who has died, including:
If you don't know every detail, don't worry—the registrar will guide you through the process.
During the appointment, the registrar will:
Additional certified copies can be purchased during the appointment or later if required for banks, pension providers, insurers or probate.
The Tell Us Once service allows several government departments to be informed of the death in one process, including:
Using this free service can save you time by reducing the number of organisations you need to contact individually.
If the death has been referred to the Coroner, the registration process may be different. The Coroner's Office will explain what happens next and advise whether you need to attend the Register Office.If the death occurred in hospital, the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death is normally sent electronically to the Register Office, so you do not usually need to collect any paperwork yourself.
Before leaving the Register Office, think about how many certified copies of the death certificate you may need. While many organisations now accept electronic notifications, some banks, pension providers and solicitors still require an official certified copy. Purchasing them during your appointment is often quicker and more convenient than ordering additional copies later.