About Us

About Us – Direct Cremation Cumbria

At Direct Cremation Cumbria, we are proud to continue a five-generation legacy of compassionate funeral care, passed down over 100 years. Our family-run funeral service began with James Saunders in Grange-over-Sands in the late 1800s, and now, the tradition is carried on by Liam Appleby, the sixth generation of the family to serve the community. With a deep-rooted commitment to respect, dignity, and compassion, we are honoured to help families across Cumbria navigate one of life’s most difficult times.

A Legacy of Care and Compassion

Our story begins with our great-grandfather, James Saunders, who founded the company in Grange-over-Sands in the late 1800s. His ethos of providing personal, respectful, and professional funeral services has been passed down through generations, shaping the foundation of the trusted family business we operate today.

As sixth-generation funeral directors, we are proud to continue this family legacy. Liam Appleby, who joined the business in 2007, took over the leadership in 2020. Building upon the strong foundation laid by his grandfather Lloyd Saunders, Liam has expanded the company’s services to include direct cremation offerings, while maintaining the same values of compassion and care that have been the hallmark of our service for over a century.

Our Pledge – Leaving the Light On

We know that the loss of a loved one is a deeply personal and emotional journey. At Direct Cremation Cumbria, our “Leaving the Light On” promise means we are always here to provide the support and guidance you need. Whether it’s providing advice on arrangements or offering reassurance in a time of uncertainty, we’re available around the clock to help you through this difficult time.

We believe in creating an environment of trust and comfort, ensuring your loved one’s final journey is handled with the utmost care and respect. With our commitment to 24-hour care and personalised support, we aim to make a difficult time a little easier for you and your family.

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Five Generations of Trusted Care

Our family’s funeral service has been a part of Cumbria for over 100 years, and we are honoured to continue serving families across the region. We understand the importance of a personal connection, and that’s why we focus on building lasting relationships with the families we serve. Our team provides a respectful, professional service with a personal touch, ensuring your loved one is cared for with dignity.

In the last generation, we have embraced modern funeral options, such as direct cremation, offering families a simpler, more affordable alternative to traditional funeral services. However, we still maintain our traditional values, ensuring that every service is treated with care, professionalism, and respect.

Our Chapel and Facilities

At Direct Cremation Cumbria, we are proud to offer Abbey Mount Funeral Chapel, a purpose-built, peaceful space where families can gather in private and reflect on their loved one’s life. This serene environment allows for personalised moments of remembrance, where families can play their chosen music and say their final goodbyes. Our chapel offers a quiet and safe space for up to 25 people, ensuring that your loved one’s farewell is dignified and intimate.

Additionally, we offer the option of a private farewell with the Direct Cremation Plus package, where families can gather in our chapel before the cremation, creating a lasting memory in a tranquil setting.

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Serving Families Across Cumbria

We are proud to serve families throughout Cumbria and surrounding areas. Whether you live in the bustling town of Barrow-in-Furness, the serene countryside of Grange-over-Sands, or any of the picturesque villages in the area, we’re here to offer support and care every step of the way.

Key areas we serve include:

  • Barrow-in-Furness
  • Grange-over-Sands
  • Kendal
  • Ulverston
  • Windermere
  • Penrith
  • Carlisle
  • Ambleside
  • Keswick

Wherever you are located in Cumbria, our team is here to assist with the same compassionate care and attention to detail.

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Contact Us

At Direct Cremation Cumbria, we are here to offer a personal and respectful funeral service. If you need guidance or assistance with funeral planning, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re available 24/7 to provide the support you need during this difficult time.

We are here to ensure that your loved one’s farewell is handled with care, respect, and the dignity they deserve. Let us help guide you through every step, offering support when you need it most.