Purchasing a burial plot in advance can provide peace of mind, ensuring your wishes are known and giving your family one less decision to make in the future.

There are different types of burial plots to choose from, and you can also pre-purchase a memorial to go alongside it. It’s something you can consider today, for one less decision in the future.

What does it mean to buy a burial plot in advance?

Buying a burial plot in advance allows you to secure the right to be buried in a specific grave space in the future. 

Depending on the location, this right may be granted for either:

• A fixed period, commonly 50, 75, or 99 years
• In perpetuity, meaning there’s no time limit on how long it’s reserved.

Having these burial rights, also means that you can choose who can be buried in the grave. This can be particularly helpful for couples or family members who want to stay close together.

Why do people choose to buy a burial plot early?

Lots of people have personal motivations for buying a burial plot early, but there are some common benefits.

Peace of mind

Early funeral planning is a thoughtful way to provide peace of mind for yourself and those close to you. By knowing arrangements have already been made, it leaves one less decision for your family to make.

Easier family planning

Talking about the future with your family can feel daunting, but it’s an important step in ensuring everyone understands your plans and wishes. 

Some families wish to stay together, and purchasing burial plots early can help to secure this. Many cemeteries offer burial plots for two, while others provide alternatives such as above or below‑ground vaults and mausoleums. To explore these options further, browse our memorials brochure.

Flexible choices

Planning ahead gives you greater choice over both the cemetery location and the specific resting place within it, helping to avoid last‑minute decisions when options may be limited. It also gives you time to consider what would be most convenient for family and friends to visit, and to choose a burial option that reflects your personal, religious, and cultural values.

With burial space limited across the UK, CMG is committed to creating additional burial spaces at its cemeteries. Through this ongoing investment, we hope it makes planning simpler and more reassuring for families.

Clear costs

When you purchase a burial plot today, you secure today’s prices, which may help protect your family from potential price increases in the future. We have a team of friendly experts, who can walk you through your options and our pricing.

What to consider before buying a burial plot

Before making an enquiry, there are a few things you should consider and be prepared to ask about:

• How long does ownership last, and can it be renewed? 
• Does the cemetery charge more if you don’t live locally?
• Can burial rights be transferred or passed on? 
• Who looks after the grave space or surrounding land? 
• Is there any possibility that the rules around permitted memorials could change in the future?

What you can’t fully secure when buying a burial plot early

While you can buy a burial plot in advance, there are some details that cannot be guaranteed. These include:

• The exact burial date 
• Interment fees (which may change over time) 
• Some administrative or clergy fees 
• Certain cemetery charges that are set by the local authority each year 

It’s also worth knowing that securing a burial plot is not the same as arranging a funeral plan. A burial plot reservation only secures the plot itself. A funeral plan allows you to plan and pay for a funeral in advance, including your choice of coffin, transport, music, flowers, and more.

When can I buy a burial plot in advance?

As soon as you feel ready, you’re welcome to enquire about purchasing a burial plot. We have a team of experts who can guide you through your options and answer any questions you may have. 

Simply find your local crematorium and get in touch with them directly.