National Memorial Arboretum
Latest Reviews
Visiting here we didn't know what to expect. We were absolutely blown away by both the size & amount of monuments to all the different regiments. As we didnt know what to expect we were only planning an 1-2 hr visit, in that time we roughly saw just under half. Definitely going to go back & possibly do the train ride & audio tour.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Although we live fairly close to the Arboretum and so visit regularly, the central monument commemoration the men and women in the forces, who have died since the 2nd world war can still make me cry. It is a wonderful facility and well worth a visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Have been before, but not for a couple of years. There as been lots of work carried out since then. The restaurant has been enlarged bright and spacious. It's clean and airy. The choice of food and drinks are reasonable. Lots more to see in the grounds and this time found the Corp where my husband and I were stationed. We would recommend a visit there are lots for everyone to see and enjoy. You won't be disappointed.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Very disappointed with the Dunkirk memorial, not only is it outside the main building in the car park(where not a lot of people will see unless they know it's there!) , it's not mentioned at all within the building OR on the train commentary!
Dunkirk was and still is a very important part of our war history!!! We owe so much to these brave men, and for them NOT to have the recognition they deserve is a disgrace!!
Dunkirk was and still is a very important part of our war history!!! We owe so much to these brave men, and for them NOT to have the recognition they deserve is a disgrace!!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Took the train trip around the Arboretum that comes with commentary. What a wonderful place that is peaceful, respectful and carefully thought out. You can do your own walking tour but the small train was well worth the small charge.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
My Husband and myself thoroughly enjoyed our visit. The Arboretum is a lovely peaceful place to visit. There are lots of lovely walks, everything is well maintained and the staff were very informative and helpful. There is a nice restaurant and coffee shop and a gift shop which caters for all ages. We spent approx 4 hours here, but could have spent a lot longer, we are hoping to return in the near future.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The location is in a peaceful countryside setting with good access and parking. If the weather is good then its perfect. Ideal for anybody who want to pay respects to our fallen protectors. You can take your dog with you but you have to use the outside walk path, not ideal if the exhibit you are looking for is not on that route.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Everyone needs to visit here at least once in their life. It was peaceful and tranquil. Stirs the emotions and gives you a lot to think about.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The buildings which were recently opened are far superior to at were in situ beforehand, and a warm welcome was given by the staff on entry. Pay £3 a day for parking and entrance is free, however for those of limited mobility I would suggest the land train (£5) which takes you on a circuitous route and will enable you to identify areas where you can return to if needed. A very moving tribute of all shapes and sizes, not only to military and the garden area to stillborn babies is both quiet and moving.
The cafeteria area has floor to ceiling windows, and is not overly expensive. There are many areas that you may miss unless you join with a guide, who can show and explain the garden areas, so please make enquiries to do so.
The one thing I believe should be free is the map of the arboretum, as at £3 a copy it is extortionate.
The cafeteria area has floor to ceiling windows, and is not overly expensive. There are many areas that you may miss unless you join with a guide, who can show and explain the garden areas, so please make enquiries to do so.
The one thing I believe should be free is the map of the arboretum, as at £3 a copy it is extortionate.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited as part of the armed forces day with members of the air despatch association.
There was a lot going on but the remembrance flagstone is now in place, was good to see
There was a lot going on but the remembrance flagstone is now in place, was good to see
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited again this year on armed forces day, it is so moving made even more poignant for me as my husband who passed away last year used to be in the Royal Navy. Laid a poppy on the memorial for him
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Went here with my husband, it's a great place to visit the staff are friendly and very knowledgeable. They have a little train to travel on with onboard commentary and it stops at various points of interest so it's a brilliant way to see the place even if like my husband you're not too spritely - it takes around 50 minutes to complete. There are lots of other areas where the train doesn't go to which can be walked to, it obviously comes with the obligatory gift shop which actually isn't too pricey. There's also a coffee shop and a restaurant. It has been very well designed and offers a perfect way in which we can support and appreciate all our armed forces and other services such as the police and fire services. It is a beautiful and very peaceful way to spend a day out.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We arrived on a Sunday to find the main car park full, went around a couple of times then went back to the road only to find an overflow car park . It really needs more signs telling you that there is one but still people park on the roadside because they can't afford the £3 to park or they are too tight - Shame on them.
Apart from that we had a cracking day, lovely place and lovely staff. The train really needs to be multi-stop and allow people to get on or off.
We will go again, no question about that
Apart from that we had a cracking day, lovely place and lovely staff. The train really needs to be multi-stop and allow people to get on or off.
We will go again, no question about that
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We went up to see an exhibition of an artist .when we arrived there was an exhibition for 100 years of women in the forces ,which was interesting.this is a totally humbling place and the staff are so knowledgable.the different memorials are all so different but pay triubute to these amazing people.it is on a massive scale,I don't think we saw everything .
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We were fortunate to choose a sunny, warm Sunday for our visit. Arriving at 11.15 we were just in time to board the land train for the 50 minute tour.
Almost essential and easy to book at reception for just £6.00 each. It enables you to choose which part to visit later.
Sunday lunch was excellent quality and £9.95 for two courses.
Almost essential and easy to book at reception for just £6.00 each. It enables you to choose which part to visit later.
Sunday lunch was excellent quality and £9.95 for two courses.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
An enormous place to visit. Very well laid out and sensitively done. The land train is a must. Gives you an audio tour and takes in a lot that the less able might not see. You are able to walk around the whole place, visit specific memorials, plenty of seating around to rest and remember. Well worth a visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Surprisingly big, we knew it was a big area but you can easily spend a whole day walking round looking at all the beautiful memorials. Each one is unique and really helps you reminisce and pay respects to those who fought for our country. Amazingly clean and well kept. Dog friendly. Food in the restaurant looked lovely, made us regret taking a picnic! Buy or take a drink with you as there is only one area at the start where you can do this. The only downside is the parking area is quite small and be aware that it IS pay and display although there aren't many obvious signs to say so! Oh and not to mention it's free entry although we bought a map and tour guides, and they do appreciate any donations too! We would definitely return, very sobering experience.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
What a total surprise. we only live about 10 miles from this site and have only seen on local news they only show you the main monument, so we thought we would go and have a look what a surprise the area covers 150 immaculate acres and is full of every aspect of war and some civil memorials since 1914 my own father was on the Burma railway and I found the items and museum very emotional we took the train ride around the site with commentary well worth every penny it is free to go in. The train ride is £6 each
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We arrived at 9:30 and left at 3:45pm and we still had not visited the new "remembrance centre". The whole place is fascinating and many of the memorials and gardens very moving. We had sandwiches in the restaurant which were fresh and used good bread and fillings. Allow plenty of time to read all the information boards, as a bit if a history buff finding out more about regiments and other groups really added to the visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Not having been before we took the train ride round the site. This took 45 mins.and now we have a good idea of where everything is. Its a pity you have to book a time for your ride and can't get on and off anywhere round the park. you have to get on at the start and if you get off you cant get back on. The train was only 1/4 full, even though the car park was completely full. There is so much to see and a good caffateria and coffee shop. We will go again.
It was interesting to learn about the memorials to non-combatants, disaster victims and animals that I didn't know would be here.
It was interesting to learn about the memorials to non-combatants, disaster victims and animals that I didn't know would be here.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I had the chance to revisit whilst visiting the area. Only a few years since last here but now larger and the main facilities are excellent. Walked most of the site with so much to see and time to reflect on the many outstanding regimental sites and the tales of history and bravery associated with many aspects of ancient and modern conflicts.
The main memorial is so impressive.
Regimental reunions were taking place and at lunchtime the Royal Artiilery Band and Pipers gave a great recital in the main concourse where you could sit and enjoy lunch from the very good café.
This is a restful and peaceful place worthy of several visits.
Good car parking - wheelchair accessible throughout. Land train for those unable to walk the whole site.
The main memorial is so impressive.
Regimental reunions were taking place and at lunchtime the Royal Artiilery Band and Pipers gave a great recital in the main concourse where you could sit and enjoy lunch from the very good café.
This is a restful and peaceful place worthy of several visits.
Good car parking - wheelchair accessible throughout. Land train for those unable to walk the whole site.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited Arboretum with a work function. Beautiful gardens provide serene environment for quiet reflection. Grounds are immaculately up kept.
The food and function facilities were excellent.
The food and function facilities were excellent.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We came here first two years ago when it was starting up. Now it is a fantastic place. I defy anyone not to feel some emotion with regard to all the memorials to the dead. The train trip around the site is well worth while as you get a lot of information en route and it is a fair old walk right round the park. The grounds are beautifully maintained and the new reception building is excellent. I personally delighted to see that two of the RAF stations where I served as a National Servicemen are commemorated. Overall I felt quite emotional. Everyone should come here.
The restaurant and coffee shops were first class. The staff, who are mostly volunteers, are so friendly and helpful.
The restaurant and coffee shops were first class. The staff, who are mostly volunteers, are so friendly and helpful.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A first visit for us to the National Memorial Arboretum, and what a lovely day it was, bringing back some very poignant memories. We took the Land Train (which lasted for around 45 minutes), and then walked all the way around after that. Had a drink in the restaurant afterwards, everywhere is spotless, and the staff very helpful. Entry is free, although there is a £3.00 parking charge which lasts all day. Donations are worth making.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Beautiful, moving, should be a must for everyone!
Staff helpful, friendly and efficient.
Newly enlarged main entrance/shop/cafe and parking, a great improvement.
Staff helpful, friendly and efficient.
Newly enlarged main entrance/shop/cafe and parking, a great improvement.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
