Headstone Prices in the UK For 2025

When it comes to planning a burial or cremation, one of the most important decisions to make is if you are planning on purchasing a headstone.

The price of a headstone and finding out how much are headstones can vary significantly depending on the size, design and material used. In this blog post, we will discuss how much a headstone/memorial costs and explore the various factors that influence the cost. “What is the average cost of a headstone uk” and “Grave stone prices near me” are commonly searched for questions for many people searching on a budget.

Key takeaways

Temporary wooden grave markers

Wooden temporary grave markers

A temporary wooden grave marker is usually chosen while the grave settles and the permanent stone grave marker or headstone is being made. Prices for temporary grave markers start from around £35 and can include the deceased’s name, dates of birth and death, and a small inscription Temporary grave markers can be found at:

Low-cost grave markers slanted or flat

Generally the cheapest grave markers are the short flat or slanted ones which can sit on a foundation stone which is normally made from the same material as the grave marker. Typically you can buy these from £30.00+ from CC Online Memorials. Memorials of Distinction also offer a grave marker from £504+.

Low-cost cremation headstone/memorials

Cremation memorials are headstones specifically to commemorate a loved one’s cremation. The company highlighted in the link (Abbey memorials) pride themselves in providing low-cost services throughout the UK.

Headstone costs in the UK: How much are headstones?

You can expect to pay upwards from £700. However, when researching the price of a headstone the upright headstone which is the most popular option, costs between £750.00 and £1400.00+. Prepare yourself to dig deeper into your pocket if you plan to purchase a kerb headstone. These can start from £2000+.

For a comprehensive selection of kerb headstones at competitive prices and see their full range of lower cost headstones/memorials visit Abbey Memorials and Southern Memorials.

Basic slanted headstone

Basic slanted headstone

The foot of a kerbed white marble memorial filled with blue chippings

Apart from the price of a headstone there are also additional costs to consider, such as professional installation, which can add to the overall cost. When shopping around for the best price, it is best to approach monumental masons directly, rather than through an undertaker, as some undertakers charge for this.

Headstone prices: What affects the cost of a headstone

The price of a headstone can vary greatly depending on several factors. The headstone’s size, material and design contribute to its price as well as additional features such as engraving and installation.

Size is one of the biggest factors when it comes to the price of a headstone. Generally speaking, the bigger the headstone, the more expensive it will be. Headstones come in various sizes, ranging from small plaques to full-size upright monuments.

Black granite shown above is probably the most popular headstone/memorial material

The material you choose will also affect price of a headstone. Granite is one of the most popular materials used for headstones in the UK and is typically more expensive than other materials like marble and limestone. Granite can be polished to a high mirror like finish, or likewise honed to a matt finish.

Some harder to locate rare marbles can cost more than granite. If you’re looking for a less expensive option, sandstone or concrete can be a great alternative.

It should be noted that Marble headstones or marble kerbed memorials are not always recommended where they are surrounded by trees or bushes as this will more than likely stain the marble over time.

Nabresina from Italy and Portland stone from England are both limestone’s which are soft and give a more aged appearance than marble or granite. These softer limestone’s were very popular in English churchyards dating back hundreds of years. They are cheaper and easier to machine than marble and granite. Due to limestone being soft it is more prone to damage/erosion and the effects of acid rain.

The design can greatly affect the price of a headstone, due to the machining required to cut and polish the shape. If you want to add an intricate or detailed design, it will likely cost more than a simple shape. Additionally, if you choose to have an image engraved or sandblasted onto the headstone, this will add to the overall price.

For many the price of a headstone comes down to what they can afford, or afford to borrow.

Porcelain plaques and figures

Special long wearing porcelain plaques can also be inlaid into the stone, for a more personal touch. You will need to provide the stonemason with a high quality photograph for the porcelain plaque to be made. Obviously additional work usually increases the price of a headstone.

Elegant, artistic Kosmolux figures are often a popular addition for many memorials. You can read more about the interesting history behind the Kosmolux company which produces these “non sculptured” exclusive hard wearing figures based on Italian master sculpture originals.

Headstone prices: Headstone installation

Installation fees are another factor that can influence the cost of your headstone. Installing a headstone usually requires specialised equipment and expertise, so there is usually an additional charge for this service. Some stonemason’s are members of BRAMM (British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons). BRAMM has a policy code which their members follow and list their registered stonemason members on their website.

For increased stability some masons use a concrete base with extra concrete lintels below ground level. Whilst this does not guarantee there will be no ground movement it does provide a strong support for kerb memorials. A concrete foundation with the addition of a stainless steel rod is preferred stronger fixing method for memorials/headstones by some masons.

How to save money on the price of a headstone

Another way to save money on a headstone is to compare suppliers. No matter how much you plan to spend on a headstone, research and ask the price a headstone, then compare prices to get the best deal possible.

Memorial Insurance

Insurance is worth considering as it can be a peace of mind against:

Subsidence, theft, accidental damage, damage from falling trees, vandalism & storm damage. 

Beautiful memorial statues

When money is not  a constraint it can seen from the above image how ornate and artistic some memorial designs can be.

Support a cancer charity with this useful book on selecting a headstone

Headstones- Advice and Inspiration is a book inspired by the death of a family member and is for anyone seeking guidance on choosing a headstone. With over 150 photographs and client stories this book was written to raise money for Maggie’s Cancer Care charity by expert stone carver Fergus Wessel. Fergus and his wife Hannah are kindly donating all of the sale proceeds to Maggie’s.

To purchase a copy visit stoneletters.com/book.

Conclusion

So, what is the price of a headstone? how much are headstones? The cost can, as already mentioned, vary greatly depending on the size, material, and other features such as design and installation. On average, a basic small headstone with a simple inscription can range from £700+.

It’s important to consider all these factors when choosing a headstone for your loved one to find the right balance between price and quality.

However, more elaborate headstones will cost upwards of £2,000 In addition, if you are looking for a temporary grave maker, prices can range from £35 upwards depending on the design. Whatever the price of a headstone you should not feel pressured to spend more than you can afford, or afford to borrow.

For additional ideas on memorial and garden stones visit the link.