National Memorial Arboretum
Latest Reviews
Fantastic to walk round and see all the different memorials and the history surrounding them. Well worth a visit and go to the restaurant theres plenty of choice at reasonable prices
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Family get-together for afternoon tea in the restaurant, having visited the Arboretum sometime ago but there are clearly more exhibitions to see which will be for another day.
The afternoon tea is good value at £17 for two and is served on 3-tier stands.
Due to veggies amongst our group, one of the staff did give us the choices offering egg mayo, tuna, smoked salmon, prawn and cheese - the meat options included beef/mustard, cheese/pickle and ham/tomato.
As a group of seven we chose all veg sandwich choices and indeed for the meat-eaters all those options too.
The only thing we were not asked was if we wanted white or brown (didn't think about it until platters arrived)
More white bread served than brown, no crusts cut off and no sign of beef or cheese/pickle. However, bread was fresh as was fillings.
Middle tier of lemon drizzle cake and caramel cake/choc shavings, fresh raspberries dotted about.
Scones were fabulous - fresh and fruity and huge! Clotted cream, strawberry preserve and fresh strawberries accompanying.
Choice of coffee or tea - I had pot of berry tea which gave me three nice cups.
The afternoon tea is good value at £17 for two and is served on 3-tier stands.
Due to veggies amongst our group, one of the staff did give us the choices offering egg mayo, tuna, smoked salmon, prawn and cheese - the meat options included beef/mustard, cheese/pickle and ham/tomato.
As a group of seven we chose all veg sandwich choices and indeed for the meat-eaters all those options too.
The only thing we were not asked was if we wanted white or brown (didn't think about it until platters arrived)
More white bread served than brown, no crusts cut off and no sign of beef or cheese/pickle. However, bread was fresh as was fillings.
Middle tier of lemon drizzle cake and caramel cake/choc shavings, fresh raspberries dotted about.
Scones were fabulous - fresh and fruity and huge! Clotted cream, strawberry preserve and fresh strawberries accompanying.
Choice of coffee or tea - I had pot of berry tea which gave me three nice cups.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We spent 5 hours at this lovely memorial and it is truly a fitting tribute to all those who have served this country. We spoke with a number of volunteers (of which there are 250 and mostly ex-service personnel) and every one was passionate about their role. It's a beautiful walk around the grounds and well worth a visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Met friends here over the late May Bank Holiday. The site is huge with lots to see for people of all ages. It's peaceful but not silent. Our sons are both in cubs and really enjoyed looking at the Scouting memorial. They also enjoyed the pond dipping. Visiting is free (donation). There is also a good sized cafe and large carpark. Recommended.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The only way I can describe this would be a massive garden with memorials and tributes paid to every regiment in the armed forces. It will take you a good few hours to visit them all, take it all in and appreciate it all. The grounds are kept immaculate and it's a lovely place to visit. Its a somber experience and really makes you think and reflect on the many men and women who have lost their lives. Some of the statues are breath taking. There's no entrance fee, but donations are welcomed. There's a small charge of £3 for the car park that covers you for the day.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
It is free entry, but you pay £3 into the parking metre when parking your car. We spent the whole day there, not leaving until it closed at 5 o'clock. There is so much to see, it is truly amazing. My partner was in the RAF police where he also served for two and a half years in Singapore. At the restaurant there is a stand where you can purchase crosses with a poppy on that you can lay at your desired memorial.
We had lunch in the restaurant which was hot and delicious, also reasonable. Oh joy to be able to eat all kinds of good home cooked food, instead of these mass produced restaurants these days. We even went back in our last day of holiday, to visit the Far East exhibition building, which is a tear jerker. We even had lunch again, with a completely different menu. Be careful food finishes at 2.30. The grounds are vast so if you have difficulties in walking there is a comfortable land train you can travel in for £6 each.
There are plenty of walks a really enjoyable day out. Enjoy.
We had lunch in the restaurant which was hot and delicious, also reasonable. Oh joy to be able to eat all kinds of good home cooked food, instead of these mass produced restaurants these days. We even went back in our last day of holiday, to visit the Far East exhibition building, which is a tear jerker. We even had lunch again, with a completely different menu. Be careful food finishes at 2.30. The grounds are vast so if you have difficulties in walking there is a comfortable land train you can travel in for £6 each.
There are plenty of walks a really enjoyable day out. Enjoy.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A beautiful site. Superbly laid out with hundreds of memorials all unique. The train ride lasting 45 minutes is a great way to survey a lot of the memorial site. One can then visit particular monuments of interest. The volunteer guides are very helpful and knowledgeable.The only shame the day we went was the weather was not good. It didn't spoil our enjoyment however
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
It is a very sombre and strange place. The site is vast. In particular the central monument listing those killed in action since WW2 is particularly moving, especially as when we visited more names were being added to the endless list. The grounds are well kept. It isn't the sort of place I can honestly say I enjoyed visiting, but it was certainly thought-provoking.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Absolutely beautiful place to visit. Kids and adults loved it and a great way to educate the children.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I wasn't really sure what the NMA was. I knew it was a memorial centre of some kind, having seen the occasional news item, but why an arboretum? My visit was to find out.
We arrived at 9.30 am and left at 5.00 pm when we realised nobody else was around - and we still had not seen it all. It really is the most incredible place. How do you describe it? Words like evocative, emotional, moving, symbolic, fascinating, interesting hardly seem adequate.
It is a memorial centre to all those who have died since 1945 in the service of their country, yet it is also a memorial centre to many who died or those in so many organisations who died during WW2. The memorials, of so many shapes and sizes, relate not just to the military but also to civilian organisations such as the police, the Scouts, the RNLI, the Soroptomists. Each day, at 11.00 am in the chapel, there is a talk about about the NMA and a Two Minute Silence. That, for us, was another moving occasion. So much in the chapel and in the memorials speak so symbolically of the people and the events they commemorate.
The NMA lies within the area of England that is being developed as The National Forest and tree saplings are being donated to create an arboretum, hence the words Memorial and Arboretum. Most of the trees are themselves dedicated to military personnel.
It is a place that is difficult to describe adequately. The only way to understand it is to make a visit and react as it takes you.
We arrived at 9.30 am and left at 5.00 pm when we realised nobody else was around - and we still had not seen it all. It really is the most incredible place. How do you describe it? Words like evocative, emotional, moving, symbolic, fascinating, interesting hardly seem adequate.
It is a memorial centre to all those who have died since 1945 in the service of their country, yet it is also a memorial centre to many who died or those in so many organisations who died during WW2. The memorials, of so many shapes and sizes, relate not just to the military but also to civilian organisations such as the police, the Scouts, the RNLI, the Soroptomists. Each day, at 11.00 am in the chapel, there is a talk about about the NMA and a Two Minute Silence. That, for us, was another moving occasion. So much in the chapel and in the memorials speak so symbolically of the people and the events they commemorate.
The NMA lies within the area of England that is being developed as The National Forest and tree saplings are being donated to create an arboretum, hence the words Memorial and Arboretum. Most of the trees are themselves dedicated to military personnel.
It is a place that is difficult to describe adequately. The only way to understand it is to make a visit and react as it takes you.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The site is vast - one great big garden, with memorials to every military service. It is beautifully organised, and free entrance, although a donation is welcomed. Parking is £3. There are many areas of particular interest, including a WW1 trench replica, and a memorial to the men who were "shot at dawn". There is a nice restaurant with food at reasonable prices, and a coffee shop, both with outside seating. We did a fair bit of walking to cover everything, but there is a land train and a buggy if preferred.
We have no special connection to anyone past or present in the armed forces; even so, we still found the site interesting and moving. You need at least half a day to explore.
We have no special connection to anyone past or present in the armed forces; even so, we still found the site interesting and moving. You need at least half a day to explore.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Wow...what a memorial....wonderful place to see, def a must! We're going back again as we have not touched half of the area.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A wonderful, sobering and thought provoking experience. With over 300 memorials in quiet woodlands around the central remembrance monument, this place puts things into perspective and makes you realise how many lives have been lost in the defence of our realm.
A very emotional experience with stories of tragedy and suffering, you can only try and grasp at what some of these brave endured.
A wonderful place to visit.
A very emotional experience with stories of tragedy and suffering, you can only try and grasp at what some of these brave endured.
A wonderful place to visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Came here with my husband who wanted to lay flowers at the Burma railway memorial for his grandfather. The place is beautiful, a fitting memorial for all the men & women who have served this country. My husband was moved to tears by the memorials & it is one of those places that I feel that all school children should come & visit, so that they may understand the sacrifices many have paid for the privileges of today.
The Arboretum is free to visit, though there is a small charge for parking, but it is not onerous. To those miserable sods who have complained about the parking charges, get over yourself, you pay more for parking in town centres for your shopping trips!!!
The Arboretum is free to visit, though there is a small charge for parking, but it is not onerous. To those miserable sods who have complained about the parking charges, get over yourself, you pay more for parking in town centres for your shopping trips!!!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Something for everyone. They have great events throughout the year and there are a couple of hidden play areas for children. It's a beautiful place. I go regularly and I always feel emotional, it's a very special place.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Myriad of memorials to a variety of causes, regiments, royal air force, navy. Most memorable amongst many is 'Shot at Dawn' a post for each of these unfortunates
Railway for the least mobile
Railway for the least mobile
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A place full of quiet places to contemplate with many reminders of people who have died in the course of their work to defend peace all over the world. This is an area where all ages can go and enjoy or quietly remember those who have died. There is a garden to remember still born children as well as the Police, Army , Navy, Raf. It is all encompassing. There is a sensory garden and a play area for children.
We took the train, the volunteers were very helpful, but I would say if you can sit forward facing, we sat facing the back and although the commentary was good, you missed much as it was past before you saw the memorial. It does give a taster and there were many gardens I went back to see in more detail.
The proceeds of all the food goes to running of the place and we found it coffee and cakes delicious. It does cater those who need gluten free food.
We went to the service which starts at 11.00. Very good.
The gardens are probably too large to take in at one go as there there over 150acres, but well worth going more than once. I will go back.
We took the train, the volunteers were very helpful, but I would say if you can sit forward facing, we sat facing the back and although the commentary was good, you missed much as it was past before you saw the memorial. It does give a taster and there were many gardens I went back to see in more detail.
The proceeds of all the food goes to running of the place and we found it coffee and cakes delicious. It does cater those who need gluten free food.
We went to the service which starts at 11.00. Very good.
The gardens are probably too large to take in at one go as there there over 150acres, but well worth going more than once. I will go back.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A very emotional experience only spoiled by small aircraft buzzing overhead disturbing the silence. The 'Shot at Dawn' is a must see. Sadly the food served and the price paid in the canteen does not reach the quality of the setting.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
There is nothing to fault here at all. Stunning memorials, architecture and planting in a very tranquil setting. Really friendly, helpful volunteers, great food in the cafe, clear signs.
Don't miss the Dunkirk Veterans memorial as it is at the building entrance.
Don't miss the Dunkirk Veterans memorial as it is at the building entrance.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Just got back been wanting to go for years..didn't disappoint
Very emotional and thought provoking and very good buggy tour by Richard.
we were lucky there were only 2 of us so asked questions to our hearts content, accompanied too by a trainee called Pam who was really sweet and welcomed us on arrival
Beautiful landscaped area and so much bigger didnt have time to see it all so going to return
The large centre piece of the armed forces memorial was our highlight plus the memorials for Basra camp bastion and and Falkland Islands
This place is a must
Only downside some of the restaurant staff were not friendly or helpful ..not sure if they are volunteers or not..but nowhere near as welcome and friendly as all the volunteers in the green t shirts
Very emotional and thought provoking and very good buggy tour by Richard.
we were lucky there were only 2 of us so asked questions to our hearts content, accompanied too by a trainee called Pam who was really sweet and welcomed us on arrival
Beautiful landscaped area and so much bigger didnt have time to see it all so going to return
The large centre piece of the armed forces memorial was our highlight plus the memorials for Basra camp bastion and and Falkland Islands
This place is a must
Only downside some of the restaurant staff were not friendly or helpful ..not sure if they are volunteers or not..but nowhere near as welcome and friendly as all the volunteers in the green t shirts
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We visited with the British Legion. The site is huge and contains 30,000 trees and many marvellous yet varied memorials. The National Memorial in the centre is very moving. It us a memorial to all those who lost their lives since the end of the Second World War with all the names carved.
We started our visit with the remembrance service at 11 in the chapel with the Last Post and two minutes silence. There was a recorded talk by Jeremy Paxman. This set the scene for the day.
I would recommend the land train which costs £6 and takes around 50 minutes to go slowly round the site with a commentary. There are also buggy tours or walking tours. Otherwise, take a map and follow one of the trails.
We wanted to find the Fleet Air Arm memorial which was my father in law's service, and the Land Army which was my mother in law's. Both very impressive.
Lovely café and restaurant and also an exhibition centre. You can also hire audio equipment for a personal commentary.
We started our visit with the remembrance service at 11 in the chapel with the Last Post and two minutes silence. There was a recorded talk by Jeremy Paxman. This set the scene for the day.
I would recommend the land train which costs £6 and takes around 50 minutes to go slowly round the site with a commentary. There are also buggy tours or walking tours. Otherwise, take a map and follow one of the trails.
We wanted to find the Fleet Air Arm memorial which was my father in law's service, and the Land Army which was my mother in law's. Both very impressive.
Lovely café and restaurant and also an exhibition centre. You can also hire audio equipment for a personal commentary.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
One day is not enough! Easy to find, plenty of parking (charge of £3), free entry. Large new Entrance hall, with front desk, shop and large cafeteria. Plenty of staff and all extremely helpful. Buying a map is essential, and this could be improved a little. Advisable to go on the land train to orientate yourself, and to pick out the areas you want to visit. Remember the daily memorial service at 11am in the chapel. The Shot at dawn memorial is a must, and the Third battle of Ypres trench display. Walk through the British legion garden of remembrance, and the SANDS garden. The site is vast, and there are plans for a large extension in the future. One complaint would be the lack of facilities beyond the entrance area, you will need to plan your visit with a return to this area. Few portaloos around site, but nowhere to buy drinks etc. Beautiful walks along the rivers Tame and Trent. Advisable to do some research before your visit, or spend two days there. Remember, no entry fees, just car parking.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This is a massive site and I would recommend the land train which costs £6 and drives around the whole site with a running commentary and takes about 45 minutes. All the volunteers are very happy to talk about any aspect of the site. There is a short but very moving service in the chapel neat to the entrance with a short speech (read by Jeremy Paxman) and the Last Post is played followed by 2 minutes silence, which they do every day of the year. One of the volunteers then explains how the Arboretum came into being. When the land train deposits you back near the entrance it is only a short walk to the main Armed Forces Memorial where the names of all those who lost their lives in conflicts since 1945 are carved. There is a gap in the wall that allows a ray of sunshine to strike the centre of the memorial on the 11th of November every year
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A very moving experience on par with the War Graves in France & Flanders. Everything was brilliant except for the land train. This has clearly been contracted out to a group of people who are grumpy & have no feeling for the site. Being cooped up in a hot stuffy wagon like a sardine when the operator could have spread us out into three wagons was crap. If you visit give the land train a miss, either walk or give the personal buggy a go. The land train was recommended to me but it is not worth the money. Just walk & enjoy the experience, save yourself £5.00 & put it in the donations box. I will visit again with friends but there is no way i will use the land train.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We visited to pay our respects to a namesake who was shot at dawn 100 yrs ago on the 19th February 1917 in Basra with his buddy, they been on a 30 mile desert march and fell asleep on guard duty
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
