National Memorial Arboretum
Latest Reviews
I was overwhelmed by the sheer scale and serenity of the memorial. I can't recommend it highly enough.
Source: google.com
What a lovely place, superb staff and organisation. Great restaurant or self service facility. Lovely memorials to all branches of the forces and many different ones. Great visit.
Source: google.com
Just amazing
Source: google.com
A very relaxing and peaceful place to visit
Source: google.com
We are lucky to live a twenty minute drive from the Arboretum. It is a wonderful place and we visit regularly. It is a friendly and peaceful place , no matter how many times you visit you can always find something you haven’t seen before.
At the moment you have to pre book, so numbers are limited . This means that you feel quite safe visiting.
Normally there are a lot of organised events, which are very well arranged. Two of my favourites are the Proms in the summer and the Candle light Carol Service held outside in Heroes Square just before Christmas. In October they have The Ride to the Wall, when thousands of motorbikes arrive and are allowed to drive to the Wall. They raise an amazing amount of money for the Arboretum. I have never seen it but it is on my Bucket list.
One visit is not enough, there is so much to see. The food there is very good or you can take your own picnic. The 11 o’clock service in the Chapel is well worth attending. Very often there a lot of service men and women visiting.
A place that I love, helped by the amazing staff who are very friendly and helpful.
If you haven’t visited you should, one visit is not enough.
At the moment you have to pre book, so numbers are limited . This means that you feel quite safe visiting.
Normally there are a lot of organised events, which are very well arranged. Two of my favourites are the Proms in the summer and the Candle light Carol Service held outside in Heroes Square just before Christmas. In October they have The Ride to the Wall, when thousands of motorbikes arrive and are allowed to drive to the Wall. They raise an amazing amount of money for the Arboretum. I have never seen it but it is on my Bucket list.
One visit is not enough, there is so much to see. The food there is very good or you can take your own picnic. The 11 o’clock service in the Chapel is well worth attending. Very often there a lot of service men and women visiting.
A place that I love, helped by the amazing staff who are very friendly and helpful.
If you haven’t visited you should, one visit is not enough.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited here October 2020. Luckily the weather was good when we got there, sunny but cold. Walking shoes are a must as the site is huge and lots to see.
Have wanted to go here for ages and I was really impressed, such a thought provoking yet calm place.
Dog friendly too which was good for us, just had to stick to the dog walking route. Husband and I took it in turns holding the dog while viewing memorials closer.
‘Shot at Dawn’ memorial was the most emotional for me, definitely a must see. Also really looking forward to going back in the summer to see the poppies!
Finally I would just like to say the staff are super friendly here and helpful! Definitely worth a visit and can’t wait to return.
Have wanted to go here for ages and I was really impressed, such a thought provoking yet calm place.
Dog friendly too which was good for us, just had to stick to the dog walking route. Husband and I took it in turns holding the dog while viewing memorials closer.
‘Shot at Dawn’ memorial was the most emotional for me, definitely a must see. Also really looking forward to going back in the summer to see the poppies!
Finally I would just like to say the staff are super friendly here and helpful! Definitely worth a visit and can’t wait to return.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We have visited the NMA quite a few times and there is always something new to see. More memorials are being added all the time and it is worth noting that they are not all military memorials, there are many other societies and events commemorated here.
It is not a sad place, even though many of the memorials are very poignant. In fact in many ways it is quite uplifting. This is a very special place.
The NMA is not as well known nationally as it should be.
It is not a sad place, even though many of the memorials are very poignant. In fact in many ways it is quite uplifting. This is a very special place.
The NMA is not as well known nationally as it should be.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The arboretum is huge! Could easily have spent a full day there. Each time I thought I had seen everything there was another area to walk round.
The staff were all very friendly.
The staff were all very friendly.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Went today to visit for the first time.
It is easy to find and there is a spacious car park. Entry is through the main building where we were given a talk about the safety for Covid. From there you go into a courtyard which gives access to the rest of the site. There is a coffee shop with outside seating as well as the indoor cafe.
We purchased a map which took some understanding but once you had deciphered it was fine.
There were plenty of paths to follow around which took you past the memorials. The most striking was the ‘Shot at dawn’ memorial which was a statue surrounded by simple wood posts. Each post had the details of a person , all from the First World War many under 20.
The arboretum part was somewhat undeveloped with only youngish trees. I was disappointed with the trees as I had hoped the trees would be larger and show more with autumn colours.
We had a coffee and scone in the coffee shop both were fine.
It is easy to find and there is a spacious car park. Entry is through the main building where we were given a talk about the safety for Covid. From there you go into a courtyard which gives access to the rest of the site. There is a coffee shop with outside seating as well as the indoor cafe.
We purchased a map which took some understanding but once you had deciphered it was fine.
There were plenty of paths to follow around which took you past the memorials. The most striking was the ‘Shot at dawn’ memorial which was a statue surrounded by simple wood posts. Each post had the details of a person , all from the First World War many under 20.
The arboretum part was somewhat undeveloped with only youngish trees. I was disappointed with the trees as I had hoped the trees would be larger and show more with autumn colours.
We had a coffee and scone in the coffee shop both were fine.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I have always wanted to come here and was not disappointed. So many places to look at and memorials to see, I came specifically to see a few of the names on the Wall as well as the naval memorials and managed to find them no problems with the easy to use maps and guides that are available. Loved the gift shop, so many tasteful items and souvenirs that keep you in mind that it is about remembering those here and not glorifying anything.
The only disappointing bit was the cafe. After ordering chips and curry sauce, chicken and chips and a sandwich they were all thrown in the same bag together and the curry sauce was put in sideways. It leaked all over the rest of the dinners and filled the bottom of the paper bag up with curry sauce. It was a complete mess but we were pressed for time and we had already spent too long waiting to be served otherwise we would have complained.
Other than that it was an excellent visit and one that I will be returning to in the near future.
The only disappointing bit was the cafe. After ordering chips and curry sauce, chicken and chips and a sandwich they were all thrown in the same bag together and the curry sauce was put in sideways. It leaked all over the rest of the dinners and filled the bottom of the paper bag up with curry sauce. It was a complete mess but we were pressed for time and we had already spent too long waiting to be served otherwise we would have complained.
Other than that it was an excellent visit and one that I will be returning to in the near future.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I spent an enjoyable afternoon at the NMA with guide Mick Byrne. His knowledge is exceptional and his passion for his subject hugely enthusing.
The NMA is a wonderful place and designed and delivered with sensitivity, meaning and in exemplary fashion.
The NMA is a wonderful place and designed and delivered with sensitivity, meaning and in exemplary fashion.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We booked on line. Ticket entry included the car park and a optional donation. Wrap up warm as all the memorials are outside. We booked a guided walk on arrival as well as the train ( on land not rail) such goes around the site, with a interesting and informative comminatory.
The guide Tony was amazing, we were the only couple who had booked. So we had over an hour being shown many of the memorials, including the history, some fascinating stories and anecdotes. Then Ian showed us the post world war two memorial.
It's a very peaceful site with masses of trees in autumnal colours. Some areas have beautiful gardens.
A new memorial is being built currently dedicated to the police . We also found other memorials dedicated to GCHQ , to the Wi, SANDS and to 9/11. A truly informative visit, when it's hard to realise how many people have died in conflicts, in the line of duty since the war.
The guide Tony was amazing, we were the only couple who had booked. So we had over an hour being shown many of the memorials, including the history, some fascinating stories and anecdotes. Then Ian showed us the post world war two memorial.
It's a very peaceful site with masses of trees in autumnal colours. Some areas have beautiful gardens.
A new memorial is being built currently dedicated to the police . We also found other memorials dedicated to GCHQ , to the Wi, SANDS and to 9/11. A truly informative visit, when it's hard to realise how many people have died in conflicts, in the line of duty since the war.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Didn't know much about the Arboretum and booked a visit with friend. Covid measures are stringent and well marshalled - our new normal, but well done like here, no more than an inconvenience.
We soon abandoned any idea of a chat, overwhelmed by the quiet dignity of the memorials and the calm, enveloping atmosphere of the arboretum. We wandered, absorbing the myriad stories of people caught up in conflict. So many people, so much bravery, stoicism and tragedy. The Shot a Dawn memorial is heartbreaking - most were young men and we now know so much more about the effects of trauma on the mind.
The Arboretum is a powerful reflection on the human cost of conflict. I will be visiting again and recomend it.
We soon abandoned any idea of a chat, overwhelmed by the quiet dignity of the memorials and the calm, enveloping atmosphere of the arboretum. We wandered, absorbing the myriad stories of people caught up in conflict. So many people, so much bravery, stoicism and tragedy. The Shot a Dawn memorial is heartbreaking - most were young men and we now know so much more about the effects of trauma on the mind.
The Arboretum is a powerful reflection on the human cost of conflict. I will be visiting again and recomend it.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This is definitely worth a visit.
We booked on line , it’s a timed entry.
Plenty of parking.
Majority of memorials are outside so dress accordingly.
There is a cafe inside and a gift shop and toilets.
Thoroughly enjoyed our visit here recently, so much to see .
Memorials from world wars to 9/11 to regional wars over the past century.
Easy to walk around at your own pace all outside so very safe in this COVID world we live in at the moment.
It specialises in memorialising suffering and heroics that are not generally highlighted elsewhere in the U.K.
We booked on line , it’s a timed entry.
Plenty of parking.
Majority of memorials are outside so dress accordingly.
There is a cafe inside and a gift shop and toilets.
Thoroughly enjoyed our visit here recently, so much to see .
Memorials from world wars to 9/11 to regional wars over the past century.
Easy to walk around at your own pace all outside so very safe in this COVID world we live in at the moment.
It specialises in memorialising suffering and heroics that are not generally highlighted elsewhere in the U.K.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We visited in October 2020 and fortunately it was a sunny day, so the outdoor experience was a pleasure exploring the wide range of memorial gardens in peace and tranquility.
Covid 19 restrictions were in place, so you needed to book to eat in the restaurant, fortunately we were able to get an "on the spot booking". Coffee shop limited to two groups at any one time, so pace was a little slow. Food and drinks in both places were excellent quality - local Burton Brewery Ales available in the restaurant.
I was surprised to be told that all the memorials were not in the guide book. There were 370 on the day we visited - the guide book said 330 - so new additions are plentiful. I was pleasantly surprised at the wide range of memorials in addition to the Armed Services Memorial which is particularly poignant with 16,000 lives lost sine the end of WWII. For example the loss of 250 Falkland Islanders in addition to the 237 armed services personnel was an education to me.
I'm sure you will learn something new if you visit.
Covid 19 restrictions were in place, so you needed to book to eat in the restaurant, fortunately we were able to get an "on the spot booking". Coffee shop limited to two groups at any one time, so pace was a little slow. Food and drinks in both places were excellent quality - local Burton Brewery Ales available in the restaurant.
I was surprised to be told that all the memorials were not in the guide book. There were 370 on the day we visited - the guide book said 330 - so new additions are plentiful. I was pleasantly surprised at the wide range of memorials in addition to the Armed Services Memorial which is particularly poignant with 16,000 lives lost sine the end of WWII. For example the loss of 250 Falkland Islanders in addition to the 237 armed services personnel was an education to me.
I'm sure you will learn something new if you visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A peaceful beautiful place, lots of different memorials, feels extremely peaceful to walk around, stunning memories. Land train was very informative and went at a slow pace so could see the memorials easily enough definately worth a ride on, lasted for about 45mins but with three options to get off but once off not getting back on. We stayed on the whole journey and enjoyed listening to the commentary. Sat and had a drink and a cake outside the cafe, did the stick man trail which my daughter thoroughly enjoyed running through the wooded area and finding other memorials. You could easily spend a full day here so much to see, will definatly be returning, we did lots of walking today and still missed loads.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We had wanted to visit for a while but live a fair distance away. Managed this as a detour on our way home from a week away - only problem we has was a lack of signage as we came nearer.
Very well laid out, but use of the Land Train first (£6 each) was good value and gave a very good insight to the whole area - very good commentary. This lasted 45 minutes.
Having had a light snack we continued walking and were particularly interested in the Polish and Far East areas.
We were there for some three hours, could have spent more - a dry day is was an advantage.
Very well laid out, but use of the Land Train first (£6 each) was good value and gave a very good insight to the whole area - very good commentary. This lasted 45 minutes.
Having had a light snack we continued walking and were particularly interested in the Polish and Far East areas.
We were there for some three hours, could have spent more - a dry day is was an advantage.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Very interesting place to visit, so much to see and learn, guided tours if required or left to wander this historic Memorial. Staff extremely helpful and knowledgeable, definitely worth a day out
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We had a lovely day at National Memorial Arboretum. The staff was very friendly & helpful. We went on the land train which great as you see most of the memorials. It was a shame it was raining but we will be going back
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Spent a lovely couple of hours walking round the arboretum admiring the trees and taking our time to read some of the memorials, a vast array of memorials to all different groups. Will have to visit again to see the memorials we missed. Great cup of tea and cake as well. Very Covid safe visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited today with husband. Been wanting to go for a long time and made it today. Prebooked parking at a reasonable £4. Free entry after this. Very thought provoking and emotional to see all the memorials here. Lots to see and learn. Lots of walking involved so wear comfy shoes! The armed forces memorial was totally awesome and we both had a lump in our throat. Well organised due to social distancing guidelines and we felt safe. Staff were welcoming and full of information. You can pre book a table at the restaurant where they are currently doing table service, very reasonable prices and good food. Well worth a visit and I would say you need a good part of the day there to be able to see everything. Will definitely be going again.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A most evocative place with so many stunning memorials and gradually developing landscapes of maturing trees. It has been carefully thought out and a credit to all concerned. As a Bereavement Volunteer I was especially affected by the SANDS garden and by the tact and sensitivity of the gardener who stopped his hedge trimming while we were in there.
The facilities were good considering Covid. We recommend taking the land train when you arrive, to obtain an overview, and then you can choose which areas to explore in more detail.
The facilities were good considering Covid. We recommend taking the land train when you arrive, to obtain an overview, and then you can choose which areas to explore in more detail.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited with my husband and mother-in-law today, after having booked just the day before. Our booking was for 2pm and on arrival we booked the land train for 2.30pm and the restaurant for 3.30pm. All staff were friendly and courteous. The land train was perfect as my mother in law can not walk any distances. I would love to return again and have a wander around some of the memorials the land train couldn't get to. The afternoon tea was one of the best I have tasted, and there was enough to bring a little doggy bag with us. I will definitely revisit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Been meaning to come here for a long time. My Daughter went a few weeks ago and suggested we went. Even with covid restrictions it's well organised. Pre booked parking and throughout our visit the staff were friendly and helpful.
We arrived at 2pm and did not see all that we wanted, could have spent all day there.
Very moving and wonderful tributes. It was a cold but sunny day. Loads of places to sit and reflect.
Really well thought out especially the gap in the wall where the sun shines through at 11am on the 11th November.
Will certainly return.
We arrived at 2pm and did not see all that we wanted, could have spent all day there.
Very moving and wonderful tributes. It was a cold but sunny day. Loads of places to sit and reflect.
Really well thought out especially the gap in the wall where the sun shines through at 11am on the 11th November.
Will certainly return.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This is a National Memorial site not just for the military connections (although it is the major contributor). It is a memorial site dedicated to the many services that have suffered loss of life over the years since WW1..
We visited for personal reasons, to respect all that fell during the world wars, but also specifically to view the Far East section (Burma Star & POW memorials), the Glider Pilot memorial, the RAF memorials, and the WW1 connections.
The 'shot at dawn' memorial we found particularly poignant and disturbing.....
Everyone should visit this site now that it has reopened with restricted COVID access.
Pre-booking is the only way to visit at this time (September), but the NMA has taken appropriate steps for safe distancing and protection.
We thoroughly recommend taking the 'train ride' around the site as this provides commentary whilst viewing the major sites and memorials around the arboretum, the train slowing down or stopping at various points to allow proper viewing. There is a small charge for this - but worth well worth it (if only to know where to walk to later)....
An enjoyable and worthwhile experience, and would definitely go again.
It is however worth taking suitable walking shoes!
We visited for personal reasons, to respect all that fell during the world wars, but also specifically to view the Far East section (Burma Star & POW memorials), the Glider Pilot memorial, the RAF memorials, and the WW1 connections.
The 'shot at dawn' memorial we found particularly poignant and disturbing.....
Everyone should visit this site now that it has reopened with restricted COVID access.
Pre-booking is the only way to visit at this time (September), but the NMA has taken appropriate steps for safe distancing and protection.
We thoroughly recommend taking the 'train ride' around the site as this provides commentary whilst viewing the major sites and memorials around the arboretum, the train slowing down or stopping at various points to allow proper viewing. There is a small charge for this - but worth well worth it (if only to know where to walk to later)....
An enjoyable and worthwhile experience, and would definitely go again.
It is however worth taking suitable walking shoes!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
