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A Farewell as Individual as the Life it Honours

We will gently walk you through all your choices, ensuring you feel confident in the arrangements you make.

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If we have learned one thing over the years, it is that people are as different in death as they are in life. If it feels like the right thing to do, it probably is — you are not organising an event, you are creating a unique memory

Whether you have just lost someone or are ready to begin making arrangements in the days that follow, please reach out whenever you are ready. You are welcome to visit us at our offices in Burwash Funeral Directors or Heathfield Funeral Directors, or we will come to you at home. There is no pressure to have anything decided before you call, our role is to guide you gently through each decision, at your pace.

Key considerations

Authority to act: The person making arrangements should have the family’s agreement to give instructions and make final decisions on the funeral.

Honouring wishes: Whether following a will, a prepaid plan, or building from scratch, we will help you navigate every choice to create a fitting farewell.

Timing: There is no legal timeframe., however funerals typically take place within 30 days.

Full coordination: We manage all communication with crematoria, churches, officiants, and other parties — ensuring every legal requirement is met on your behalf.

Transparent costs: You will receive a clear, itemised written estimate of all charges — including third-party fees — before any commitments are made.

Authority to Act:

The person arranging the funeral must have the family’s authority to make final decisions and provide instructions.

Honouring Wishes:

Whether following a will, a prepaid plan, or starting from scratch, we will help you navigate every choice to create a fitting tribute.

Timing:

While UK funerals typically take place within 10–14 days, there is no legal timeframe; we can expedite or delay arrangements to suit your family’s needs.

Full Coordination:

We manage all communication with cemeteries, crematoria, and officiants, ensuring all legal requirements are met seamlessly.

Transparent Costs:

You will receive a clear, comprehensive written estimate of all charges before the service takes place.

Type of Funeral

Cremation, burial, or direct cremation — the choice is yours

Every funeral we arrange falls into one of these three broad categories. Our experienced team will talk through each option in detail, explaining the differences fully so that your family can arrive at an informed decision that truly reflects your loved one’s wishes.

Traditional Cremation

A service attended by family and friends, followed by cremation at one of our local crematoria. The service may be held in the crematorium chapel, in church first with a committal to follow, or at another meaningful and suitable venue. Each cremation is carried out individually and with the utmost care. Cremated remains are available for collection or we can arrange their final resting place.

Crematoria we work with across East Sussex and Kent
We know each of these venues well and attend services there regularly. We will help you choose the setting that best fits your wishes. We also attend services at many local churches across our area.

Wealden Crematorium
Our closest crematorium, situated on the A267 between Horam and Hailsham. A beautiful and tranquil setting. Wealden is the venue we use for our direct cremation service.

Eastbourne Crematorium
Located just outside Eastbourne near Langney. Eastbourne Crematorium has two chapels and has recently been fully refurbished — a well-established and respected venue.

Kent & Sussex Crematorium
Situated on the outskirts of Tunbridge Wells. This venue suits families in the East Sussex and Kent border areas. We attend regularly and know the team well.

Burial

When choosing burial, service options are flexible, including graveside services or ceremonies at a chapel, church, or another location, followed by interment.

A burial plot is a section of land in a church, cemetery, or natural woodland burial site where a person can be buried. It can accommodate individuals, couples or families. However this will depend on the size of the plot.

We serve many local churches across East Sussex and can advise on churchyard, cemetery, and woodland burial options. Costs for new graves and opening fees are always fully itemised and vary by area.

Woodland and natural burial
Is a growing choice for families in East Sussex. We are recommended by the Natural Death Centre and offer coffins made from willow, wicker, bamboo, and other ecologically sound materials.

The nearest natural burial ground to our offices is Clayton Wood — a 13-acre meadow site inside the South Downs National Park. We can also advise on burial on private land (more straightforward than many families expect), or the scattering of ashes at sea for those with a love of the coast or seafaring past.

The rules and regulations for natural burial grounds vary from site to site — some restrict the type of coffin; others do not permit a headstone, allowing nature to reclaim the ground in its own time. We will explain the specific requirements for whichever location you are considering.

Direct Cremation

A Direct Cremation is a cremation locally with no funeral service, ceremony, or mourners present. 

We are committed to high standards, transparency and respect throughout this service.

Direct Cremation

Types of Service

It is entirely your choice what kind of service to have. Many families find it important to hold a meaningful, personal service that truly captures the spirit of a life lived. Others prefer something quieter, simpler, or entirely private. We have arranged every kind and we will support whatever feels right for you.

Religious service

A service led by a vicar, minister, or priest, in a church or crematorium chapel. We work closely with clergy across East Sussex and can suggest the right person if you do not have an existing relationship with your local church.

Multi-faith & religious diversity

We have wide experience of funerals across all faiths and traditions — from a full Russian Orthodox Mass to a small rural chapel. We will liaise with your religious leader and suggest appropriate venues to ensure the service honours your loved one in exactly the right way.

Non-religious or alternative services

An entirely personal service led by a trained celebrant, without prayers or religious content. The celebrant meets the family beforehand and builds a service around the individual — their life, character, and the memories they leave behind. We can recommend experienced celebrants we know and trust.

Simple funeral

For families who prefer a dignified, no-fuss farewell. There is no requirement for a minister or celebrant — the family may lead the service themselves, or choose to have no formal service at all before the cremation or burial takes place. We have a wealth of experience to support this.

We’ll help you choose the format that feels most appropriate — or guide you if you’re unsure.

Speak with us

Chapel of Rest & Visiting Your Loved One

The decision to visit the Chapel of Rest is an intimate and highly personal one.

This private space is designed to offer a peaceful environment for quiet reflection, prayer, or a final farewell. We understand that this choice can be difficult; while some find the experience comforting, others may find it too painful.

If you are uncertain about what is best for you, we invite you to speak with our team for gentle guidance and support .

Our dedicated funeral arrangers are here to guide you through every choice at your own pace.

Personalising your loved one’s attire is a beautiful way to celebrate their unique life. You are welcome to choose a cherished outfit that reflects their personality—whether that is a favourite suit, a comfortable dress, a professional uniform, or a sports team top. If you prefer, we can provide a classic funeral gown instead.

To help us present your loved one with the utmost dignity and familiarity, please feel free to bring in any glasses or dentures they regularly wore.
You may also place small, meaningful tokens inside the coffin, such as letters, photographs, or a favourite flower. We promise these personal items will rest undisturbed.

For complete peace of mind, every piece of jewellery and personal possession is documented the moment it enters our care. We will speak with you to arrange whether these items should stay with your loved one or be safely returned to your family.

We’ll talk you through what to expect and tailor the experience to your wishes.

Speak with us

Personalising your service 

Every life is unique, and we believe a funeral should be a true reflection of the individual it honours. We offer a comprehensive range of services to help you personalise the day, celebrate cherished memories, and create a lasting tribute that resonates with family and friends.

Whether it is through selecting a meaningful venue beyond traditional chapels, curating a bespoke playlist of favourite music, or designing a personalised coffin that reflects a lifelong passion, we are here to help you explore the many ways to make the service unique.

Writing the Eulogy

A eulogy is a heartfelt tribute shared during a funeral to honour and celebrate a loved one’s unique journey. It is a gift of remembrance, where personal stories and cherished milestones are woven together to paint a picture of the life they lived. Some people wish to read the eulogy themselves during the service, others prefer a religious leader or celebrant to share these words on their behalf, ensuring your loved one’s legacy is honoured with care and warmth. If you need help crafting or delivering a eulogy, we can offer support or connect you with celebrants or religious leaders.

Learn More >

Music

Music can be an important and personal element of any funeral or memorial service. You might consider choosing hymns or songs that held special meaning for your loved one, or that resonate with your family’s shared memories.

Our team is happy to advise and source any particular music requests you may have, whether it’s recorded music or live performers; such as professional organist, soloists, or even a Piper to lead and play at the service, ensuring the music is a fitting tribute.

Learn More >

Catering

After the service, many families choose to gather, share memories, and offer support to one another.

We can help you organise a simple reception or something more tailored to your wishes.

Learn More >

Personalising your service

Every life is unique, and we believe a funeral should be a true reflection of the individual it honours. We offer a comprehensive range of services to help you personalise the day, celebrate cherished memories, and create a lasting tribute that resonates with family and friends .

View our services

Words from
Families We’ve Helped

Heathfield funerals were excellent from the moment I rang up at 2am
after my father had just passed away they couldn't do enough for us as a family. comfort preparation and booklet they post out to you giving step by step guidance was invaluable. On the meeting to arrange the funeral they were professional but they had a lovely caring attitude which was a great comfort. On the day of the funeral after pre phone call to check everything was alright and no further needs, the professionalism was brilliant with such a loving and caring attitude put everyone at ease and I would certainly recommend them 100% when a funeral for a loved one arises. Thank you team .
Absolutely superb service from start to finish
Every staff member was kind and compassionate as well as highly efficient and knowledgeable. I’m really glad I chose this company as they really held my hand throughout a difficult time and produced a lovely funeral that ran seamlessly.
From the initial telephone call made to HFS we received first class efficient service.
We were guided through a sad and difficult time with compassion and understanding. As a family we felt that we had an additional friend walking by our side - Clare and her team are outstanding.
We received a truly compassionate and professional service from HFS for my mother’s funeral.
On the day, the mourners were looked after with great care by HFS staff David and (driver of the following car) Philip. Reflecting back, it’s the small details that reveal their exceptional training and natural sensitivity to the role. It’s an emotional experience to follow a hearse carrying your next-of-kin and Philip somehow intuitively understood the mood, engaging in conversation when we needed it, and respectfully falling silent when we did. All the while, he remained the consummate professional chauffeur.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Heathfield Funeral Services (HFS)
We cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional care and compassion shown by Heathfield Funeral Services during one of the most difficult times in our lives. From the moment we reached out to them, we were met with kindness and understanding that eased our burden and allowed us to focus on honouring our loved one. The team at HFS went above and beyond to ensure that every detail was handled with the utmost care and consideration. Their attention to detail was remarkable, and it brought us great comfort to know that our loved one was in such capable hands. They took the time to listen to our wishes and offered thoughtful suggestions that truly reflected the personality and spirit of the individual we were celebrating. Their professionalism was matched only by their warmth. Each member of the team treated us like family, providing support and guidance every step of the way. They created a serene environment that made the planning process a little less daunting and allowed us to focus on what truly mattered cherishing the memories of our dear one. Moreover, the facilities provided a peaceful space for family to pay their respects. The service they provided was not just about logistics; it was about honouring a life and offering solace to those left behind. We wholeheartedly recommend Heathfield Funeral Services to anyone in need of compassionate, attentive care during such a sensitive time. Their kindness, professionalism, and meticulous attention to detail made all the difference for our family. Thank you, HFS, for your unwavering support and for helping us navigate through our grief with grace and dignity. You have our deepest appreciation.
We have been fortunate enough to have been supported by Waterhouses for both my grandparents funerals as well as my father's so we wouldn't have dreamed of going anywhere else for our dear mother
George supported us with such care and sensitivity throughout our journey in saying goodbye to our mother Robina. He organised the most beautiful funeral with us and Clare and the team supported us on the day. We had complete trust in the whole team and as painful as it was we couldn't have had a more perfect funeral for my mother last week. Thank you so much for being alongside us in our most difficult days and giving our mother the funeral that was as dignified and beautiful as she was. Special thanks to George, we can't recommend him highly enough, all his interactions with us were from the heart and with such care and integrity.
I have know the team at CWH many years being involved in the trade but only had to call on their services for the first time recently. We wanted and expected the best for my late father and were not disappointed.
David and his team are extremely thorough, no unforeseen seem to phase them or vary their approach or the cost. David helped us no end with getting my father released form hospital, advising, in conjunction with the vicar, what the funeral might look like, briefed us, the pull bearers, comprehensively on the day and ensured everything ran smoothly which it did. The service is very slick in a deeply personal way with nothing left to chance and both my late father and the family treated with the utmost of dignity. I am very pleased we instructed CHW and would do so again.
I cannot fault the professional service offered to us as a family
by C Waterhouse & Sons both in preparation for the funeral and on the day itself. It helped us through a difficult time. We were shown such care and kindness - by everyone and especially by Teresa - a really personal service. Heartfelt thanks.
Sadly, 7 months after my sister passed away, my mother died, aged 92
Once again, I asked C Waterhouse and Sons to Look after Mum and make all arrangements. George was fantastic - sympathetic, organised and led me through the process. Having previously met my Mum, I felt that he had a personal connection. David was a huge support at the funeral service. I know one is not meant to be pleased to see Funeral Directors again, but I was. Thank you to the team at C Waterhouse for their care, sensitivity and "human-ness". My sister died suddenly and I had no idea what to do or how to do it. George at C Waterhouse took charge and led me along the planning and funeral arrangements expertly - he showed sympathy and, most importantly for me, with the humour I needed. He was sensitive with my mother who has Alzheimer’s and didn’t understand. At the cremation itself, David took charge, again leading me along every step. The kindness and humanity I was shown was boundless and very gratefully received. I could not recommend C Waterhouse & Sons more highly.
I had not had to arrange a funeral before. Zara at C Waterhouse was absolutely brilliant, offering care, kindness and understanding at a time when I was not really at my best.
She listened to me, answered all my questions and provided thoughtful advice (and tissues). She was like the best friend I never knew I needed. The whole process was made as smooth as it could be, with Zara there to offer guidance and compassion throughout. I felt that both I and my late father were treated with care and respect. Shout out too to the lady who dressed my Dad and made him look respectable for his funeral. I know these people arrange funerals every day but they made me feel as though I was their only customer. This was also the case for Mike and the team of bearers at the funeral who were extremely professional, thoughtful and kind. I like the way that they leave a flower on the coffin before it goes for cremation. If you are looking for a funeral director, I highly recommend them. You will be in good, caring hands.
We have felt very well looked after as a family
Zara explained everything in detail and put us at ease when making difficult decisions. Also making suggestions when appropriate. On the day, Clare was very kind caring and supportive of our requests. I would not hesitate to recommend CWH to anyone needing the services of a funeral director. They listened to us and guided us and nothing was ever too much trouble.
We would like to sincerely thank Waterhouse and Sons,
especially Jane, for the care, compassion, and professionalism shown while arranging my mum’s funeral. From our very first meeting, they guided us through every step with kindness and patience during such a difficult time. The attention to detail was exceptional, and they ensured the day itself ran smoothly and with dignity. Waterhouse and Sons went above and beyond to make sure everything was exactly as we wanted, and nothing ever felt like too much trouble. The respect shown towards my mum and our family meant a great deal to us, and we are truly grateful for the support we received throughout. We couldn’t have asked for a more caring and professional service. Thank you again for helping us give my mum the beautiful send-off she deserved.
My family cannot thank Waterhouse enough for the comfort, care and compassion they showed us in our time of bereavement.
From start to finish, their support was exceptional. George was very personable, reliable, and struck just the right tone. He respectfully accommodated the family’s complex wishes, guiding us through our emotional journey with warmth, kindness and professionalism. He explained the process clearly, gave advice where it was needed, and the whole team ensured that everything flowed smoothly on the big day. It was reassuring to know that our father was in safe hands.
Our experience using Heathfield Funeral Services met all our needs
They were very patient and understanding as we tried to make arrangements with which all parties were happy. Additionally, their help and advice meant we could have the funeral and internment within a very tight time frame to accommodate family from overseas. Wendy was a lovely celebrant and included everything we wanted in the service. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend their services.
Absolutely superb service from start to finish
Every staff member was kind and compassionate as well as highly efficient and knowledgeable. I’m really glad I chose this company as they really held my hand throughout a difficult time and produced a lovely funeral that ran seamlessly.
Having used HFS both for family and witnessed their service at Funerals of friends we did not hesitate to seek their services
when our Aunt the last of her generation passed away in November. Their service is professional & personal to cover the needs of those involved in making the necessary arrangements. We sincerely thank Wendy Mitchell who manages the office and David Rhys-Jones who directed the funeral on the day for ensuring everything went smoothly, respecting all of our wishes. Highly Recommended.
From the initial telephone call made to HFS we received first class efficient service
We were guided through a sad and difficult time with compassion and understanding. As a family we felt that we had an additional friend walking by our side - Clare and her team are outstanding.
We received a truly compassionate and professional service from HFS
for my mother’s funeral. On the day, the mourners were looked after with great care by HFS staff David and (driver of the following car) Philip. Reflecting back, it’s the small details that reveal their exceptional training and natural sensitivity to the role.
I had not had to arrange a funeral before
Zara at Waterhouse was absolutely brilliant, offering care, kindness and understanding at a time when I was not really at my best. She listened to me, answered all my questions and provided thoughtful advice (and tissues). She was like the best friend I never knew I needed. The whole process was made as smooth as it could be, with Zara there to offer guidance and compassion throughout. I felt that both I and my late father were treated with care and respect. I know these people arrange funerals every day but they made me feel as though I was their only customer. This was also the case for Mike and the team of bearers at the funeral who were extremely professional, thoughtful and kind. I like the way that they leave a flower on the coffin before it goes for cremation. If you are looking for a funeral director, I highly recommend them. You will be in good, caring hands.
The entire staff of Waterhouse put so much care and attention into helping us organise my husband's funeral
They provide a superb service and were so compassionate, thoughtful and professional. Zara was absolutely wonderful and guided us through all the necessary steps. I cannot thank you all enough
Waterhouse were outstanding with their professional and compassionate care towards our family
George was so kind and supportive in helping us to make our decisions for my Mum, Sheila’s service. He matched us to a wonderful celebrant, Nicola Elliott, who was amazing and helped make such a painful process more bearable. We cannot thank you all enough.
I/my florist have worked with Waterhouse and many other local funeral directors for many years, for me, Waterhouse have always been just that little bit more special
they aren't a big chain, they are a family run business, they are kind, caring and you feel a sense of peace when you visit them. When We lost our Mum, I knew strait away that it was going to be Waterhouses to take care of our precious Mum. I am a local florist and although I help families choose their final floral tribute for their loved ones, I have never had to arrange a funeral, It initially felt very overwhelming with what had to be arranged until we met with George. George made the whole funeral side of things so easy, relaxed and stress free, he helped guide us throughout with such a soft and caring approach. Personally for me, they are simply the best and would highly recommend them to any family
Waterhouse Funeral Directors provided a superb, sympathetic, thoughtful and professional service
whilst dealing with my wife’s funeral. Right from the very start of the process they offered support & unbiased advice, helping me to make the best decisions during what is an emotional journey. Thank you.
A truly professional funeral director
We were hand held with both empathy and understanding from start to finish, by both the celebrant (Mick Gosden) and all of the Waterhouse staff. All of our requests were efficiently met, which made the day truly wonderful for all of our family and numerous friends. Resulting in a true celebration and a memorable day of our dads life!!
Waterhouse Funeral DIrectors arranged both my parents' funerals
(my father died in 2023 and my mother in early 2026). They could not have been more helpful, more compassionate or easier to deal with. From the first phone call to the final email, they were professional, kind and clear. Both our funeral organiser and the funeral director made us feel supported and extremely well looked after - in such a stressful and sad time, it was a huge relief to think that there was a competent team making sure that everything went smoothly. I recommend them highly - both for their competence and knowledge, and also for their kindness and compassion. It was clear in every interaction that they remembered that, for us, arranging the funeral was a hugely emotional and sad process - and this meant a lot to me.

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