National Memorial Arboretum
Latest Reviews
I am originally Tamworth born n bread. But was visiting my friend of 54yrs for a long wk end from Cornwall
She had been here many times and wanted to take me.
We visited on May 14th. While we where there,there was a Fire Service Memorial service. With bands and pipers and fire cadets and fire service personal.
So smart and as I had known persons at Polesworth retained fire service many years ago. Brought back some dear memories
The actual arboretum is fantastic. Very spacious,immaculate.A fitting tribute to the brave people of conflict through the years.
It was a very moving and sad experience to see all the names. Knowing what that meant.
My dad was in the RAF and I felt I was representing him standing in front of their memorial.
Very moving
In his later years the RAF benevolent fund helped mum n dad
Our wonderful service men n women allow us to maybe stand that bit prouder than we otherwise would.
I left feeling very humble and very thankful to all those who gave so much for us.
I will at some point take our 7 grandkids to this amazing place
God bless them all
She had been here many times and wanted to take me.
We visited on May 14th. While we where there,there was a Fire Service Memorial service. With bands and pipers and fire cadets and fire service personal.
So smart and as I had known persons at Polesworth retained fire service many years ago. Brought back some dear memories
The actual arboretum is fantastic. Very spacious,immaculate.A fitting tribute to the brave people of conflict through the years.
It was a very moving and sad experience to see all the names. Knowing what that meant.
My dad was in the RAF and I felt I was representing him standing in front of their memorial.
Very moving
In his later years the RAF benevolent fund helped mum n dad
Our wonderful service men n women allow us to maybe stand that bit prouder than we otherwise would.
I left feeling very humble and very thankful to all those who gave so much for us.
I will at some point take our 7 grandkids to this amazing place
God bless them all
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A moving visit, but with wonderful memorials over a wide area. Excellent cafe and visitor centre. Church service each day at 11.00 am
A reminder of all who have kept us and our country safe.
A reminder of all who have kept us and our country safe.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
If you are in the area, the Memorial Arboretum is very well worth a visit. It is peaceful and still but very moving, a fitting tribute to our brave heroes.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I went with my husband today would recommend paying for a jeep ride £5 well worth it staff are very informative and tell you things that you would never find out just by walking round. Very moving 330 memorials makes you think and appreciate what people have done on our behalf,
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This was our second visit to this establishment; the first was many years ago.
We were pleasantly surprised at just how much the facilities had improved since our first visit and of course were really impressed at the number and quality of all of the memorials on view here.
We also witnessed members of staff going about their business in a very helpful manner, offering to assist others whenever the opportunity arose.
Of course the majority of memorials are associated with the armed services and those who lost their lives. Additionally though, there are a host of other memorials which have no connection to the armed services.
The Arboretum is beautifully kept, the pathways are flat and well maintained, perfect for disabled access.
All in all a very pleasant but humbling experience.
Highly recommended.
We were pleasantly surprised at just how much the facilities had improved since our first visit and of course were really impressed at the number and quality of all of the memorials on view here.
We also witnessed members of staff going about their business in a very helpful manner, offering to assist others whenever the opportunity arose.
Of course the majority of memorials are associated with the armed services and those who lost their lives. Additionally though, there are a host of other memorials which have no connection to the armed services.
The Arboretum is beautifully kept, the pathways are flat and well maintained, perfect for disabled access.
All in all a very pleasant but humbling experience.
Highly recommended.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Lovely humbling enjoyable day out. Lovely to have on the door step and somewhere for the area to be proud of.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited on a wired weather day typical British weather warm one minute raining next.
We arrived and went directly to the military shop with the plan of having grandfathers medals framed. We hadn't been given correct info on our last visit so couldn't go ahead even if we wanted to which is doubtful as the cost reached £205.00 and increasing still for 1 set of 4!
We then planed to attend the church service but something went wrong so we had the silence then left.
We saw a few monuments and then
It then started to rain but it was then time for our land train ride. The young ladies in charge did not tell people to remain quiet as we were told last time so unfortunately a lady talked the whole ride.
Sunshine next and we went to the centre monument and found the name we wanted to see. Was shocked at the amount of names added in recent years even though we have seen coverage on tv.
We had a walk around seeing some new monuments and then the rain came down luckily we were in the Far East section and so spent in the exhibition before exploring further.
We think some toilets even if only portable ones scattered around the site would be useful and may be some shelters even if made to look like info points as the site is vast and many visitors elderly so not able to rush back to main complex
We found the new entrance confusing on arrival as we got caught in a queue for an exhibition then we came out of shop to use the restrooms before leaving and could not find the building exit. Maybe some signage or sectioning of areas would help as others were also confused.
We arrived and went directly to the military shop with the plan of having grandfathers medals framed. We hadn't been given correct info on our last visit so couldn't go ahead even if we wanted to which is doubtful as the cost reached £205.00 and increasing still for 1 set of 4!
We then planed to attend the church service but something went wrong so we had the silence then left.
We saw a few monuments and then
It then started to rain but it was then time for our land train ride. The young ladies in charge did not tell people to remain quiet as we were told last time so unfortunately a lady talked the whole ride.
Sunshine next and we went to the centre monument and found the name we wanted to see. Was shocked at the amount of names added in recent years even though we have seen coverage on tv.
We had a walk around seeing some new monuments and then the rain came down luckily we were in the Far East section and so spent in the exhibition before exploring further.
We think some toilets even if only portable ones scattered around the site would be useful and may be some shelters even if made to look like info points as the site is vast and many visitors elderly so not able to rush back to main complex
We found the new entrance confusing on arrival as we got caught in a queue for an exhibition then we came out of shop to use the restrooms before leaving and could not find the building exit. Maybe some signage or sectioning of areas would help as others were also confused.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Sad and amazing! Log walk but paths are in very good condition, wheelchair and disabled access is excellent.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Each memorial section has interesting information.The grounds are kept in good condition.I particulary liked the postal information quite surprising on how they operated through the war time, starting to look a bit worse for wear and could do with refreshing as could the wall of names as some of the names are fading. over all though a nice experiance. We did the train ride and the talk was well done and informative though sometimes it was hard to see some of the area's indicated but worth the price.
The food in the cafe was quite good but take your own water as the bottles of water where excesivly priced.
The food in the cafe was quite good but take your own water as the bottles of water where excesivly priced.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We could not have visited on a wetter day. It rained from the minute we got on the coach to when we got off at the end of the day. We spend over seven hours in all getting to and from the National Arboretum, but we would not have missed it. I will not repeat all the other observations, but I will give you some handy hints.
Make sure you book your train ticket as soon as you get there. There are only so many seats available. Fortunately, the ride was covered! You are on the train for a total of 50 minutes. Keep your ticket, it has the time recorded on it and it is taken from you when you get on the train.
If you pay to go in the exhibition you get the radio guide for outside. My husband used his despite the rain, but I did not. The exhibition is not large, but interesting, and I would recommend you visit here first as it does give an insight into what you will see later.
There are two eateries. The large restaurant area serves lovely hot meals, soup, sandwiches etc. Breakfast finishes at 11.30, and lunch starts at 12.00, which caught out our friends. We had scampi and chips, and lamb hotpot, both large portions and delicious. If you want a main meal go directly to that server, otherwise you could be in the wrong queue for a long time!
Tea/coffee is self service. Coffee is obvious, but the tea is not. Hot water is dispensed to the left of the coffee machine.
The coffee shop is much, much smaller, and serves drinks, wine, cakes and snacks. There is seating outside both the eateries.
This place is definitely perfect for the disabled. Very well planned. The staff and volunteers are very helpful and will do their best to answer any questions thrown at them.
I would love to go back on a sunny day to get the full benefit of the trees, plants and memorials. It is growing all the time, so always something new to see.
Please read other reviews as I have not gone into observations that have been covered elsewhere.
Make sure you book your train ticket as soon as you get there. There are only so many seats available. Fortunately, the ride was covered! You are on the train for a total of 50 minutes. Keep your ticket, it has the time recorded on it and it is taken from you when you get on the train.
If you pay to go in the exhibition you get the radio guide for outside. My husband used his despite the rain, but I did not. The exhibition is not large, but interesting, and I would recommend you visit here first as it does give an insight into what you will see later.
There are two eateries. The large restaurant area serves lovely hot meals, soup, sandwiches etc. Breakfast finishes at 11.30, and lunch starts at 12.00, which caught out our friends. We had scampi and chips, and lamb hotpot, both large portions and delicious. If you want a main meal go directly to that server, otherwise you could be in the wrong queue for a long time!
Tea/coffee is self service. Coffee is obvious, but the tea is not. Hot water is dispensed to the left of the coffee machine.
The coffee shop is much, much smaller, and serves drinks, wine, cakes and snacks. There is seating outside both the eateries.
This place is definitely perfect for the disabled. Very well planned. The staff and volunteers are very helpful and will do their best to answer any questions thrown at them.
I would love to go back on a sunny day to get the full benefit of the trees, plants and memorials. It is growing all the time, so always something new to see.
Please read other reviews as I have not gone into observations that have been covered elsewhere.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Went with a great group of friends to see Grease. Beautiful setting and a fantastic atmosphere. Had such a great time we're all popping across again this year to see Dirty Dancing! Definitely recommend a visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We are visiting from Australia and were taken there by our English friend. It was awesome and we used the land train but later walked a short distance to see the Far East memorials. The Changi POW camp exhibition was truly touching and heart breaking. The staff were so warm and friendly.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Extremely interesting and moving experience for all ages. The new visitor centre and refreshment facilities are top class. Staff are extremely helpful. This site will only get better with time.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited as part of a coach tour, had two and a half hours here but you could easily spend a whole day.
We took the land train tour (there is a charge and you need to book a time slot at reception, tip: do that as soon as you arrive). It will give you an overview of the site and be useful should you come back in the future.
The site covers not only military memorials but also other organisations.
We took the land train tour (there is a charge and you need to book a time slot at reception, tip: do that as soon as you arrive). It will give you an overview of the site and be useful should you come back in the future.
The site covers not only military memorials but also other organisations.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Absolutely breath taking place. Wonderful for a nice peaceful walk. Main attraction really is something to be seen by everyone.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
From the moment we arrived until leaving approx 4 hours later, we were overawed by the knowledge and friendliness of the staff, the layout of the grounds, the monuments themselves and the excellent upkeep of the whole area. We used the road train initially, which took about 45 minutes but then we retraced the journey on foot. It was a truly thought provoking and moving experience. There's good catering facilities and toilets together with a well stocked shop but be prepared for over the top prices. A map of the area costs £3.00. Nevertheless, well worth a visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Most of us will know someone who has served in the forces. We visited to pay respects to those who paid the ultimate price. The various memorials are informative. It can be a short or long visit, a stroll around or the land train. We strolled and spent the afternoon, could've stayed all day. Free entry but please make a donation as it helps towards the upkeep , £3 for a folding map (helpful) Volunteers are around should you need help. We visited the cafe for a drink and cake,.Good service and reasonable prices.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
My second time here and always a pleasure. Normally I walk around but this time we had OAP's with us, so booked the Land Train. A 50 minute trip which covers most of the sight with excellent commentary.
Due to the layout the elderly were able to get to the main memorial, my only comment is lack of benches for them to use on way up and whilst at the top.
Throughly recommended.
Due to the layout the elderly were able to get to the main memorial, my only comment is lack of benches for them to use on way up and whilst at the top.
Throughly recommended.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The NMA has always been an interesting venue, but since the reopening and multi million pound upgrade it is now absolutely amazing. You can go there for a whole day and still not see or experience everything. The staff are very knowledgeable and friendly and the new tour with the hand held radio commentary is superb.Some of the memorials certainly make you stop and think.
The restaurant is excellent serving snacks, meals and drinks and you can book for Sunday lunch too.
The restaurant is excellent serving snacks, meals and drinks and you can book for Sunday lunch too.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This was our first visit, we were greeted in the main visitor area by one of the volunteers, who was able to explain the layout of the Arboretum and share some of his knowledge.
We began the day looking around the naval monuments first, very thought provoking, I went all around the naval and merchant seamen then walked down to the Falkland Island gardens, towards the Truce memorial on Christmas Day WW1.
The sun was out for most of the day, however when walking around the main centre memorial late afternoon, the air got cooler, what was interesting was the number of names on the walls, also the amount of space left was quite staggering!
If you experience limited mobility, there are buggy trips with a guide to explain however there is a small fee.
We spent a whole day there as there were about 150 acres and over 300 monuments to see, there was plenty of seating around so you can just sit and contemplate.
We used their coffee shop, excellent customer service and reasonable prices, was impressed.
We visited the day after the bank holiday, so it was quieter, apparently its worth looking at the website to see what events are happening, they had just had two days of a vintage fair.
This is definitely worth a visit if you are in the area, even if you do not have an interest in the services.
There were other memorials, such as the YMCA, Scouts, Police, Fire, etc
We began the day looking around the naval monuments first, very thought provoking, I went all around the naval and merchant seamen then walked down to the Falkland Island gardens, towards the Truce memorial on Christmas Day WW1.
The sun was out for most of the day, however when walking around the main centre memorial late afternoon, the air got cooler, what was interesting was the number of names on the walls, also the amount of space left was quite staggering!
If you experience limited mobility, there are buggy trips with a guide to explain however there is a small fee.
We spent a whole day there as there were about 150 acres and over 300 monuments to see, there was plenty of seating around so you can just sit and contemplate.
We used their coffee shop, excellent customer service and reasonable prices, was impressed.
We visited the day after the bank holiday, so it was quieter, apparently its worth looking at the website to see what events are happening, they had just had two days of a vintage fair.
This is definitely worth a visit if you are in the area, even if you do not have an interest in the services.
There were other memorials, such as the YMCA, Scouts, Police, Fire, etc
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We had wanted to visit this venue for some time and we were not disappointed. We took the land train to give us an overall picture of the layout, which proved invaluable. Plenty of volunteers willing to assist. We enjoyed the whole experience. Although free there are donation boxes and we felt this was the right thing to do at such a memorable venue.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This was my first visit, The monuments were brilliant and so many of them to see, I went mid week and it was very peaceful in some beautiful grounds to walk around..There is so much to see and many more visits for me will definitely be on the cards.
Finished my day with a visit to the shop and cafe...Its also worth a mention that the staff were very friendly...Its a place i will certainly visit again.
Finished my day with a visit to the shop and cafe...Its also worth a mention that the staff were very friendly...Its a place i will certainly visit again.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Lovely calm place to visit. Staff really friendly and helpful. Many of them volunteers. Wonderful gift shop and great coffee shops. Well worth a visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
My first visit and it was so moving. From the excellent new visitor centre to the train, monuments and staff it could not be faulted. There is so much to see that we could not do it justice in the 3 hours we were there and so will return soon. The moving monuments to so many deserving regiments and social groups need careful time and consideration and I could not bring myself today to see the monument of those shot at dawn in World War One or study the horrors of those imprisioned by the Japanese .
It is all so beautiful and a must see for all
It is all so beautiful and a must see for all
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I can't believe I'd never visited before as I've lived in Lichfield for thirty years now.
I suppose I was expecting a big 'village hall' type set-up but I couldn't have been more mistaken.
We attended a classic car show and were all amazed at just how beautifully set out and tendered to the whole site was.
Immaculate gardens, excellent restaurants/coffee shops and even a beer if you fancy it.
It was just not what any of us were expecting.
I would strongly advise a visit.
I suppose I was expecting a big 'village hall' type set-up but I couldn't have been more mistaken.
We attended a classic car show and were all amazed at just how beautifully set out and tendered to the whole site was.
Immaculate gardens, excellent restaurants/coffee shops and even a beer if you fancy it.
It was just not what any of us were expecting.
I would strongly advise a visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
