Once defined by hushed voices, black attire, and rigid traditions, the British funeral is undergoing a quiet, but colourful, revolution. New findings from SunLife’s Cost of Dying 2026 report reveal a major cultural shift in how Britons say their final goodbyes, with colourful, personalised “celebrations of life” rapidly replacing traditional funerals.
More than half (58%) of respondents describe the funeral they arranged as being a celebration of life, up from 51% last year. What’s more, 70% of funeral directors state that they have seen an increase in these joyful, personality-led services. Meanwhile, 62% report a decline in traditional religious funerals, signalling a long-term move toward more contemporary, expressive farewells.
As a result, personalisation is at the heart of the modern funeral. Of those who personalise a funeral, 62% choose music that is reminiscent of the deceased, 47% select a particular reading, and 22% introduce a theme or dress code.
A further 16% encourage something “different or unusual”, such as upbeat speeches, welcoming children, or adding light-hearted touches to create a more uplifting atmosphere.
Funeral directors across the UK also recount an array of distinctive, meaningful requests. One funeral director recalls a comic-book fan whose final wish was for guests to arrive in superhero costumes. “It turned a sombre day into something joyful and truly unforgettable”, they said. Others speak of bagpipers, photo-wrapped coffins, sports-kit dress codes and even large scooter clubs escorting the hearse. One director describes arranging a boat charter on the Thames for a family wishing to scatter ashes in keeping with Hindu traditions.
Music continues to be one of the most personal elements of a service. In 2025, Abide With Me became the most-played funeral song, overtaking Frank Sinatra’s My Way. Yet when people consider their own send-off, My Way remains the top choice, underlining the strong desire for individuality in final wishes.
Top ten funeral songs:
- Abide with Me (Various)
- Amazing Grace (Various)
- My Way (Frank Sinatra)
- All Things Bright and Beautiful (Various)
- The Lord Is My Shepherd (Various)
- Angels (Robbie Williams)
- Goodbye’s (The Saddest Word) (Celine Dion)
- Over the Rainbow (Judy Garland)
- You’ll Never Walk Alone (Gerry and the Pacemakers)
- Jerusalem (Various)
Eco-friendly funerals are also gaining ground, with 9% of people saying they would like a woodland or eco burial for themselves. And the cost of a woodland plot (£2,207) is now almost identical to that of a cemetery plot (£2,374). Additionally, 87% of funeral directors now able to offer woodland burial options.
Funeral directors say these more personal, expressive ceremonies often support emotional healing. By focusing on the life lived rather than solely on loss, families can find comfort, connection and meaning during an incredibly difficult time.
One funeral organiser interviewed as part of SunLife’s research explains; “I organised my dad’s funeral, and it was at Westbury crematorium – bish bash bosh, out you go. My nan’s funeral wasn’t long after, and that was at a woodland. What a difference. The whole day was yours – you could spend as much time as you wanted. I mean, they probably paid for the privilege – but totally, totally different.”
Mark Screeton, CEO at SunLife, comments: “Funerals are changing, and for many families, that change is profoundly positive. People want send-offs that feel authentic, celebrations that reflect the personality, values and even the humour of the person they’re honouring. Whether that’s through bright colours, a favourite song or something wonderfully unexpected, these choices are helping families grieve in a more uplifting and meaningful way.
“Our Cost of Dying research shows this shift towards personalisation isn’t a moment – it’s a movement. By stepping away from rigid tradition and embracing individuality, families are creating goodbyes that are truly special and memorable.”
