National Memorial Arboretum
Latest Reviews
Whether just wanting to spend a quiet moment in your own thoughts or to pay respects to the fallen, this is an ideal place to gather energy and go inside your mind.
We took a road train journey to start us off and see most of the memorials before going by foot to see some in more detail.
Had a good coffee and a scone and thoroughly enjoyed our day remembering and thinking.
We took a road train journey to start us off and see most of the memorials before going by foot to see some in more detail.
Had a good coffee and a scone and thoroughly enjoyed our day remembering and thinking.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Captivating, thought provoking, peaceful, a place for contemplation.
Explore, delve, spend time.
Talk to others who are similarly motivated.
Just enjoy!
Explore, delve, spend time.
Talk to others who are similarly motivated.
Just enjoy!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
One thing the British do very well is remember our war dead. This national memorial showcases that to the extreme. Not just war dead tho, many others are remembered here. Apart from the remembrance wall ( a sight to behold in itself ) this huge park, part of the nation forest scheme, it's so chocked full of memorials to various organizations and groups that you could not name them. From sculptures to stone epitaphs and works of art. We spent 5 hours here and need to visit again. Well laid out with helpful friendly staff and plenty of facilities (toilets, cafe ect). I can't recommend it highly enough. Oh and it's FREE ( £3 parking charge)
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Planned a short break to the area with the aim of a short visit to the NMA. 3 days and 3 visits later still haven't seen it all...not 3 full days but a few hours each day. An amazing project which appears to have been constructed with enormous thought and consideration from the colour of the leaves of trees to match flags or regimental colours to access for all. So many moving and thought provoking areas including the Christmas Truce, Shot at Dawn, Falklands, The Gulf, so many regiments and services but for me the most moving was the Far East Prsioners of War building. Thank you.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We went as we were touring the area, so glad we did. Our visit coincided with the 35th Anniversary service for the Falklands war so we saw the Royal Marines Band and the veterans which added to the poignancy. We also took a buggy tour (NB it is a huge site) our guide Susan was first class there is also a tram tour which covers different areas. There is so much to take in you really need a day at the least. There is a self-service restaurant which is good quality and a coffee shop.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We had 6 hours here, took the land train tour at £5 pp and still did not have enough time to see everything.
It is actually a very peaceful, calming place that makes you feel at ease even though the reasons behind the memorials are harrowing.
I was trying to find the tree dedicated to my Brother who was serving in the military when he was killed. There are quite a few trees to say the least but the knowledge of the volunteer staff is amazing and with their help located the tree and that of my Brothers comrades killed in the same atrocity.
I will definitely return to spend even longer there and seeing all of the sights it has to offer.
It is actually a very peaceful, calming place that makes you feel at ease even though the reasons behind the memorials are harrowing.
I was trying to find the tree dedicated to my Brother who was serving in the military when he was killed. There are quite a few trees to say the least but the knowledge of the volunteer staff is amazing and with their help located the tree and that of my Brothers comrades killed in the same atrocity.
I will definitely return to spend even longer there and seeing all of the sights it has to offer.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Everybody should visit this national monument as it is reverent and hugely moving.It encourages thoughts about the futility and destruction of conflict,but what a fabulous way to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We had a whole day tour with volunteers, Sue and Maurice, who were excellent.
They took us in golf buggies for a general tour and fascinating insights into the memorials' stories. We had a nice lunch. We also went to see the memorial tree we planted for my grandad who was in the Second World War. The trees, sculptures and other memorials were all very thoughtfully designed.
Even if you were to stay a year, it would be difficult to begin to fully understand the stories of the lives of the victims and their families, but today was a thought provoking glimpse.
Thank you to Sue and Maurice.
They took us in golf buggies for a general tour and fascinating insights into the memorials' stories. We had a nice lunch. We also went to see the memorial tree we planted for my grandad who was in the Second World War. The trees, sculptures and other memorials were all very thoughtfully designed.
Even if you were to stay a year, it would be difficult to begin to fully understand the stories of the lives of the victims and their families, but today was a thought provoking glimpse.
Thank you to Sue and Maurice.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We only had three hours here but I must come again. We went to the short service of remembrance that is held each day in the chapel.at 11am We also took the land train round the site £5 well worth it. You need a whole day to see everything. Truly amazing I must go back. If you are in the area don't miss it
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We took the land train tour £5.00 per person) which is a 45 minute tour of the site. the commentary was excellent and we learnt a lot.
The Basra wall memorial was particularly moving.
We will definitely return later in the springtime to see the blossom on the trees
The Basra wall memorial was particularly moving.
We will definitely return later in the springtime to see the blossom on the trees
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Spent a great 5 hours today at the NMA the time passed so quickly as there was so much to see. For the first 45 mins we took a buggy tour driven by Sue a very friendly and knowledgeable woman who has been involved with the NMA since it first opened in 2001. She took us to areas we had not been to before and pointed out all the new monuments giving us official information and back stories to most of them Sue made the tour both educational and interesting.
If walking around you can use the free map and wander around to suit yourself or for a small fee you can join a guided tour I personally think you get so much more from the guide it's well worth it. There are lots of seats scattered throughout the park so you will always find somewhere to sit and rest if needed.
I spent some time in the chapel just sitting and reflecting easy to do in such a calm and peaceful room.
We had lunch I had roast pork carvery meal excellent quality and reasonably priced.
The shop was full of really good products the glass vases with poppy designs on were especially lovely.
It is a good place to visit if you or family members have a military background, or are currently serving or hoping to serve in the future. Maybe you are interested in British military history or doing a school or college project, or just want to visit and pay your respect to all of those who have fallen in defence of our country both military and civilian services Police, Fire, Ambulance etc. There are also gardens trees and monuments for non military, i.e. Babies born asleep (still births) young children, people who donated their organs.
Well worth a visit.
If walking around you can use the free map and wander around to suit yourself or for a small fee you can join a guided tour I personally think you get so much more from the guide it's well worth it. There are lots of seats scattered throughout the park so you will always find somewhere to sit and rest if needed.
I spent some time in the chapel just sitting and reflecting easy to do in such a calm and peaceful room.
We had lunch I had roast pork carvery meal excellent quality and reasonably priced.
The shop was full of really good products the glass vases with poppy designs on were especially lovely.
It is a good place to visit if you or family members have a military background, or are currently serving or hoping to serve in the future. Maybe you are interested in British military history or doing a school or college project, or just want to visit and pay your respect to all of those who have fallen in defence of our country both military and civilian services Police, Fire, Ambulance etc. There are also gardens trees and monuments for non military, i.e. Babies born asleep (still births) young children, people who donated their organs.
Well worth a visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
An amazing and heartfelt place,, well worth a visit, very well laid the Memorial area is so emotional and if you can find the the Shot at dawn is quite an experience as well the Japanese hut need your tissues, I been several times as their are new memorials been added all the time, friendly staff and helpful, you can hire scooters or take a train ride if you want too. Nice cakes too!!!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
There is so much to see and do here all the memorials military and civilian The new Remembrance Centre is well worth the extra cost for access but it can be a bit emotional.
The new restaurant is very good too and parking is better
The new restaurant is very good too and parking is better
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We were not disappointed when we visited the Arboretum, there is a train to take you around or you can walk. It is a lovely walk round on a nice day, loads of things to see I especially liked the memorial to the Bevan Boys, and the one for SANDS which are both close to my heart. Parking is good, with disabled spaces too near the door. A lovely café which does nice drinks and snacks, plus hot food too.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A second visit and never fails to impress, depress and provoke thought. Delivers on so many levels it is hard to describe. Go there and be thankful you have the liberty to do so.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
What a fantastic visit to the National Memorial Arboretum!
The whole memorial has been carried out with respect, thought and pride for our fallen heroes.
The restaurant and gift shop both excellent and the staff were wonderful.
We treated ourselves to a golf buggy trip around the memorial which was hilarious, the lady had never done it on her own and after stopping for us to take a photograph her map blew out of the door and we were scrambling round to pick it up. Bless her!
A much recommended visit.
The whole memorial has been carried out with respect, thought and pride for our fallen heroes.
The restaurant and gift shop both excellent and the staff were wonderful.
We treated ourselves to a golf buggy trip around the memorial which was hilarious, the lady had never done it on her own and after stopping for us to take a photograph her map blew out of the door and we were scrambling round to pick it up. Bless her!
A much recommended visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A beautiful place of remembrance.
We paid £125 for a full day guide with buggy including lunch and it was the best value for money. Our guide, Phil, was excellent. He spent time finding out what our interests were and then made the tour fit us. We still saw all the major monuments but saw lots of little tributes that were personal to us. Phil knew lots of stories behind the memorials which added depth to our visit.
I would highly recommend paying the money, which covers the buggy and the lunch as the guide is a volunteer, it really enriched our experience. That price is for up to 5 people.
We paid £125 for a full day guide with buggy including lunch and it was the best value for money. Our guide, Phil, was excellent. He spent time finding out what our interests were and then made the tour fit us. We still saw all the major monuments but saw lots of little tributes that were personal to us. Phil knew lots of stories behind the memorials which added depth to our visit.
I would highly recommend paying the money, which covers the buggy and the lunch as the guide is a volunteer, it really enriched our experience. That price is for up to 5 people.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Spent a good 2 hours walking around and found the whole experience to be very thought provoking. I will definitely go again and spend even more time absorbing the atmosphere.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We had wanted to visit the Arboretum for some time and were not disappointed when we finally got there. We used the land train to get an overview of the site, the accompanying commentary was excellent. All the staff were extremely helpful and obviously dedicated to the Arboretum. The Armed Forces Memorial was particularly moving. The whole Arboretum site is so thoughtfully planned and beautifully maintained, it is a fitting tribute to all those who have served and a place of which we can all be proud.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I have visited the Arboretum from its beginnings and have seen it grow over the years as I am lucky enough to live nearby. A day can be spent there seeing all the beautiful memorials and relaxing in the restaurant. Good idea to use one of the buggy tours or comfy shoes.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited with my son in law who is from New Zealand. Everyone was very helpful and took the time to make us feel welcome. Well done volunteers. Restaurant food also very good. Really interesting day and thought provoking.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I had an amazing visit to the Arboretum in Alrewas.Fantastic visit with lovely memorials and a lovely cafe too.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
First time I have visited here and really impressed at the work that has gone into it. A lot of history to walk around and appreciate - went on a cold, wet day and spent about 4 hours there and still a lot more to see on my second visit! A great day out to spend time reflecting.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Wow so moving visiting here with the family was a lovely day looking round very well kept and just a great place to visit
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Just love that not just loss is remembered but also those who strive to make things better for everyone and also those who loved the project. This time I went for the daffodils - they were under the water last year! We walked along the avenue of daffodils to the Polish memorial and the ring of gold - remembering those who celebrated their golden wedding and beyond. The daffodil tyre tracks at the tank memorial and also those leading up to the Welsh memorial. There were lots more. I have enjoyed walking tours in the past, the far east talk and watched young children lay flowers for their fathers. Visit and support the Legion and their recipients. It is also a place to replenish your feelings of peace.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
