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True dignity for a
final journey

Horse-drawn funeral carriages arranged with the same care and respect that HL Hawes & Son has offered families since 1847.

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A traditional horse-drawn hearse offers a poignant and timeless way for families to say goodbye.

For generations, the sight of black-plumed horses drawing a hearse through the streets was a mark of deep respect and a powerful way a community could say farewell. The tradition faded with the arrival of the motor car, but it never disappeared entirely. Many families continue to choose this beautiful procession as a deeply personal way to honour a classic, timeless farewell.

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The Carriages and Horses

Horse Drawn Carriages

We offer classic horse-drawn carriages in traditional black or elegant white. Each cortege is driven by a highly experienced coachman who takes enormous pride in the dignity and grace of the procession.

We partner with highly experienced coachmen, who meticulously plan each route to manage the practicalities of the journey with total care. Our team has managed horse-drawn funerals across the Barkingside, Chingford and surrounding areas for many years and will handle every detail from route planning to liaising with the local authority, if required.

Plumes and Personalisation

We offer a range of coloured plumes to personalise the carriage to your loved, one whether that means the colours they loved, the colours of a club or community they belonged to, or simply the timeless black of Victorian tradition. Our team will talk through every option with you.

Gallery of Carriages

Speak with Our Team

Our offices in Barkingside and Chingford are open 24 hours a day. If you would like to discuss a horse-drawn carriage whether for a funeral you are arranging now or as part of a pre-paid plan we are here to help, without pressure and without rush.

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Words from the
Families We’ve Helped

I highly recommend H L Hawes & Son
They were so kind and caring and supportive to my family, though this difficult time. I would personally like to thank all the staff but give a special thanks to Richard for everything he did for us . We wanted Dad to have a lovely send off and that's what he got
The team is lovely
Special thanks to Brett who guided the family during a difficult time and was on hand to deal with all requests & queries. He made the process seamless. We had a traditional Hindu funeral and they accommodated all our needs. Thank you
We would like to take the time to Thank You
Thank You all for the very professional and amazing way looked after the final stages for my cousin’s funeral and memorial service. Your attention was wonderful. From the funeral home to the celebrant and the printer of the Order of Service . Nothing was left out .
Sensitive and professional, also with other traditions/religions (e.g. Sikhism)
We cannot thank Richard, Marc and the team enough. Came highly recommended, would highly recommend.
H L Hawes recently conducted the funeral of my late father.
They were so helpful throughout the whole process, and provided such a professional service before and on the day. I especially want to thank Lorraine, for all her patience, understanding, and support. You were amazing. Thank you all for ensuring my father had such a good send off.
We used H L Hawes to handle my Mum's funeral. The friendly team led by Brett gave us a such a perfect day.
They were so efficient and sympathetic throughout the weeks leading up to the event and that made it so much easier for us. They thought of everything – and it all went off so smoothly without a hitch. It was all just as Mum would have wanted, full of dignity and respect. I have no hesitation in recommending them for outstanding service .
We used H L Hawes & Son for my little sister funeral. They was so professional, polite, understanding and respectful.
Their communication and organisation was so amazing. I cannot thank Brett and team enough and forever grateful for giving my sister an amazing send off.
Thank you to Brett and Richard for helping the family to organise our Mum's funeral.
Obviously this is a very emotional time and they were both on hand, with nothing too much trouble, enabling us to rightly celebrate our Mum's life with dignity but not at all stuffy. Mum would have been proud.

Community Voice

Supporting Families Beyond the Funeral
At West & Coe, care doesn’t stop at the service. Learn about our continued support for grieving families — from local groups to helpful resources you can access anytime.
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New Podcast: Planning Ahead with Confidence
In this episode, we speak with our funeral planning team about the benefits of preparing your wishes in advance — and how it can ease the burden on loved ones.
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Honouring a Life, Your Way
From dove releases to bespoke floral arrangements, discover how families are adding meaningful personal touches to create unique and heartfelt farewells.
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Local Matters: Backing Dagenham FC
We’re proud to sponsor Dagenham Football Club this season — one of the many ways we stay connected to the communities we serve.
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