National Memorial Arboretum
Latest Reviews
Great day out for young and older generations. Beautiful countryside, lots of activities for children, poignant memorials and celebratory tributes!
Good walking conditions for older visitors. There are land trains for the less mobile visitors and lots of very friendly, well informed staff/volunteers who are only to happy to share their vast knowledge and useful information.
You really need a full day to make the most of it, there are plenty of places to have a picnic and a lovely cafe for snacks and coffee etc.
We didn't give ourselves enough time and missed out on seeing some of the displays. We arrived to late to get to see the replica trenches, will have to visit again.
Very enjoyable day out.
Good walking conditions for older visitors. There are land trains for the less mobile visitors and lots of very friendly, well informed staff/volunteers who are only to happy to share their vast knowledge and useful information.
You really need a full day to make the most of it, there are plenty of places to have a picnic and a lovely cafe for snacks and coffee etc.
We didn't give ourselves enough time and missed out on seeing some of the displays. We arrived to late to get to see the replica trenches, will have to visit again.
Very enjoyable day out.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Very interesting and humbling place to visit. Large open area giving you time and space to walk round and see all the different memorials in peaceful surroundings, allowing time for private reflection. The chapel holds a 2 minute silence at 11 am each day, with some information about the Arboretum. Being updated at present so will definitely go back when finished, to see all the improvements and to see the memorials we didn't get to see, except fleetingly on the land train.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Thoroughly enjoyable and informative with memorials situated over an extensive area. We used the Land Train for £5 each which slowly took you around for an hour with commentary given which is an excellent way of seeing a lot plus giving a lot of information that you might not know if walking around. Being updated and improved so the main memorial was out of bounds and is till Nov 2016 but still plenty to see. Staff could not be better in all areas.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A huge area with a vast array of special interest memorials and displays, all beautifully kept and presented. An interesting, educational and at times moving experience. Well worth an extended visit if you have the time.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The is a very special place to visit to pay respects to the fallen and what they have done for us ... But also serves as a place for young people to learn of the sacrifices of the many service mean and women . It's a tranquil place to sit and take it all in and the chapel is very beautiful. A great place to spend an afternoon reflecting x
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The staff were friendly, welcoming and knowledgeable. Even though at the moment, the main building is situated in a temporary building the set up is suitable for all. Be prepared to pay for parking, it was only £3.00 yet this is not a place you can get to easily without a car! The grounds and memorials were impressive with seating everywhere to stop and reflect. The only issue I had was the expensive food and drinks. The gift shop sold a bottle of plain water for £1.20 and the cafe sold a bottle of plain water for £1.85, Why?, the two being in the same area. Hot drinks were small, served in paper cups and were expensive for the quality. The milk was fresh but left out on the counter all day. Please consider that you have a captive audience who will require food and/or drinks, please do not make them feel they are being taken advantage of and give them value for money and service.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This is a wonderful tribute and a place to remember the thousand's who gave their all, that we have our freedom in this country today. Beautifully designed gardens of remembrance for every aspect of the two world wars, and the conflicts of today. This is well worth at least a once in a lifetime visit for everyone to remember our fallen countrymen and our allise. "We will remember them".
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We arrived at 9am, had a breakfast buttie and coffee and were ready to go. It was, however, the hottest day of the year and we were prepared. There are a lot of memorials and a lot of walking. On a cooler day, it would have been more pleasant. There is a land train but at a cost. To embrace all, you need to walk, following the guide map. Any war or conflict is an unecessary waste of life and there have been too many in the 20th century.
My saddest feeling was at the 'Shot at Dawn' memorial. I am very anti war (personal reasons) and there is no glory in war. We do/did what we have/had to do. Visit if you care.
Ample parking, easy access from A38.
My saddest feeling was at the 'Shot at Dawn' memorial. I am very anti war (personal reasons) and there is no glory in war. We do/did what we have/had to do. Visit if you care.
Ample parking, easy access from A38.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We ventured south especially to visit this National Memorial and we weren't disappointed. It is a very moving, peaceful and somewhere to reflect on the sorrow that has created the Arboretum. With over 300 monuments you will need a full day to cover it and then you might need an extra day to see what you have missed. Food and drinks are available and reasonably priced. There are small trains that cover some of the acreage and I would suggest that you ride them for a small fee. Our driver Craig was a breath of fresh air and knowledgable, in fact he made our experience and we felt he should be acknowledged for his work. All the volunteers and staff of all sections should be mentioned as they are all a credit to the Arboretum. A very but sad experience.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Went today 17/7/16 had been a few times for the rttw from the first ride but never really got to walk and look around because of being so busy so went today .It really was a moving experience and surprise to see so many people and so many memorials for so many different conflicts and people who served in so many different ways to keep this nation of ours safe . The staff there are really friendly and helpful and all I can say is I bow my head and say thank you for your tomorrow you gave your today .
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Went here on a lovely hot Sunday. Car parking is £3 and it is free to enter. Maps for the various trails can be purchased at £3 or a guidebook for £6 or if you do not want to walk there is a land train which takes you around the main memorials for £5 per adult and lasts for around 40 minutes. We did this and found the tour very informative so that once done we could retrace our steps to see some of the memorials again.
It's an incredibly poignant place, really well thought out and planned with something for all ages.
The main memorial is currently closed for refurbishment and will reopen in Autumn 2016
It's an incredibly poignant place, really well thought out and planned with something for all ages.
The main memorial is currently closed for refurbishment and will reopen in Autumn 2016
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Excellent!
It was a day of fun!
It had:
. trenches
. Train
. Buggie tours
. Walks
. Dog walks
. Art projects
. Cafe
. Gift shop
. Memorial's (obviously)
. Children's play area
And best of all the people and the vibe!
Thank you!
It was a day of fun!
It had:
. trenches
. Train
. Buggie tours
. Walks
. Dog walks
. Art projects
. Cafe
. Gift shop
. Memorial's (obviously)
. Children's play area
And best of all the people and the vibe!
Thank you!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We visited as my father had always wanted to visit, he had done his national service in the 1950's and ended up being caught in the maw maw uprising.
We arrived as recommended, about 9.30am, so it was relatively quiet, we parked across the road and were trusted to donate £3 in the visitors centre for the only charge they make, entry is free. We were a little disappointed initially as building work has not finished on the actual visitors centre and the centre piece memorial, these won't be open till November.
We had a drink then commenced to walk round the lovely and well maintained site.
After 3 hours we still had not seen it all and I can only say we were deeply moved at the whole experience. What a truly fitting place it is and when finished will be fantastic.
We left about 2pm and it was very busy in the cafe/visitors centre and around the walkways, so I would advise to arrive early to get the most out of the site.
There were plenty of volunteers on site to help and answer questions which was really good and I thank them for the time they give.
Not everybody's cup of tea, but well worth a visit and I challenge anyone not to be humbled after there visit and thankful for the men and women who gave the utmost sacrifice for this country.
We arrived as recommended, about 9.30am, so it was relatively quiet, we parked across the road and were trusted to donate £3 in the visitors centre for the only charge they make, entry is free. We were a little disappointed initially as building work has not finished on the actual visitors centre and the centre piece memorial, these won't be open till November.
We had a drink then commenced to walk round the lovely and well maintained site.
After 3 hours we still had not seen it all and I can only say we were deeply moved at the whole experience. What a truly fitting place it is and when finished will be fantastic.
We left about 2pm and it was very busy in the cafe/visitors centre and around the walkways, so I would advise to arrive early to get the most out of the site.
There were plenty of volunteers on site to help and answer questions which was really good and I thank them for the time they give.
Not everybody's cup of tea, but well worth a visit and I challenge anyone not to be humbled after there visit and thankful for the men and women who gave the utmost sacrifice for this country.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A fantastic place to visit and explore with friends. More than just military remembrance and loads to see and do. You could come back several times and still not see it all. A surprise round every corner. Well worth the trip to see it
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Straight off I will say - this is one of the most wonderful places in the UK I have ever visited. Such a fitting place of remembrance to people lost across the vast spectrum of life.
The arboretum is laid out over a vast space and is evidently going to be a constant work in progress as it evolves. Although the emphasis to the national memorial is centred on the armed forces there are memorials all different types of organisations and events that impact widely on society.
It was disappointing that on our visit that the main memorial was closed for renovation, but I understand hat there will be no convenient time for these works to be done. Likewise the building work of the main entrance diminishes the initial impression of the place, but I'm sure it'll be impressive when finished. However, none of this diminished the impact the arboretum had. I spent a whole day there & will need to go back as I feel I didn't see enough or spend enough time appreciating the individual memorials.
I would recommend the land train as it allows you to find out about a lot of the memorials and gain a sense of the lay out of the arboretum.
People have commented on various costs for a so-called 'free' venue, but apart from a possible £3 parking charge you are under no obligation to give any more money. If you can afford it I don't think it's unreasonable to make a donation of the suggested £5. It is well worth it. What people must remember is the phrase - NO obligation. You can enjoy this venue free if you so choose.
I would urge anyone with an interest in the military to pay a visit. I know I will be back.
The arboretum is laid out over a vast space and is evidently going to be a constant work in progress as it evolves. Although the emphasis to the national memorial is centred on the armed forces there are memorials all different types of organisations and events that impact widely on society.
It was disappointing that on our visit that the main memorial was closed for renovation, but I understand hat there will be no convenient time for these works to be done. Likewise the building work of the main entrance diminishes the initial impression of the place, but I'm sure it'll be impressive when finished. However, none of this diminished the impact the arboretum had. I spent a whole day there & will need to go back as I feel I didn't see enough or spend enough time appreciating the individual memorials.
I would recommend the land train as it allows you to find out about a lot of the memorials and gain a sense of the lay out of the arboretum.
People have commented on various costs for a so-called 'free' venue, but apart from a possible £3 parking charge you are under no obligation to give any more money. If you can afford it I don't think it's unreasonable to make a donation of the suggested £5. It is well worth it. What people must remember is the phrase - NO obligation. You can enjoy this venue free if you so choose.
I would urge anyone with an interest in the military to pay a visit. I know I will be back.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Such a tribute to such Brave people over the Years. It s run by the British Legion& and volunteers give there time freely. It s free to get in but £3 to park a Car, alot of walking as it s over 150 acres but with coffee breaks in the Cafe you can be on your way again. A sml land train can take you around the whole site as well, £5 return. We will be back again.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited the Arboretum in July and,of course, it rained. Very interesting gardens but the layout appeared a bit haphazard. I expected one section for Army, one for Navy and one for RAF etc but the memorials were all intermingled. Free to enter but the voluntary donation of £5 each is suggested, which most people will willingly pay. If you intend to visit I would recommend that you study the online map of the Arboretum before you visit and note where the memorials are that you particularly want to see as the map you can purchase is not in alphabetical order. The "wall" was closed for refurbishment. Take good walking shoes as there is a lot of ground to cover
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Have known this place since it started and seen it grow. Well worth a day of your life whatever part of the world your from
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I went here with a friend for the day, take comfortable walking shoes as theirs a lot to see. Entrance to the site is free and run by volunteers but we gave £5.00 each and a map £3.00 as you go in their is a lovely cafe, we had a coffee and cake each but they do serve meals and snacks which all looked very nice. They have modern very clean toilets which cater for the disabled. A lovely gift shop with helpful staff. As we started to walk around following a very detailed map there a different sections all around from The Normandy Veterans, Royal Air Force etc in all 431 sections with helpful staff answering any questions that you may have. They have a lovely land train that can take you around the site which is great if you can't walk to far. I especially liked the Sommes trench which gave just an idea of what it was like in the 1st world war, also the far east memorial building which gave educational recording and information of actually what went on in that part of the Second World War. I came away with a sense of how lucky we are, what lives were lost, that we must never forget those that gave so much. Would definitely recommend a visit here.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited the arboretum in the spring. So surprised there are memorials for allsorts of lost souls. From the memorials for firefighters, soldiers from every conflict you have heard of to ones well before I existed. I was really moved by the exhibit for the stillborn babies and spent some time reading the messages parents and family had written on large decorated stones. The aboretum is perfectly laid out so you can make your way into and out of each area without bumping into other visitors. There is also a open sided train which slowly takes less abled visitors on a tour down the main routes. We were lucky to have good weather when we visited and were grateful for the trees so we could shelter from the sun. We walked along the lakeside and again read the heartbreaking messages of family who had lost there children at a young age or to illness. Finally we visited the memory wall to look for my grandfathers name and my nans brother who both died in the second world war but alas were unable to find them. I found the day very emotional but I'm not sure it is so good for young children as my young daughter became tired and bored with the whole thing. She did however perk up a little at the childrens play area. At the main entrance there are basic refreshments and lots of memorabilia and collectable visitor guides. Will definately visit again but without children next time. Well worth a visit
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Went with my daughter on Father's Day afternoon, will definitely have to return,didn't have much time to see everything.It's very moving to see the inscriptions, all the names over the years.There isn't a charge to enter, however, a request for £5 each person is made.There is also a small car park charge. There is a souvenir shop, snacks, drinks etc are available.It's very poignant to see all the memorials to the many people and services that have been placed, makes you think deeply about the sacrifices that have been made....
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Everyone should visit this at least once. We have been numerous times and each time there is something new to consider. The volunteers are brilliant, nothing is too much trouble and extremely knowledgeable .
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The National Memorial Arboretum is a free (donations welcome) site. This was my second visit, the first a few years ago was on a nice sunny day and I explored the many memorials on foot. Today it rained and unfortunately the main building and the main memorial were closed for refurbishment, this was very disappointing but there is still a lot to see, because of the rain we took the land train a 45 minute trip (for £5) which was very informative. Lunches were served in a temporary marquee while the main building is refurbished. New memorials are being added so this is a growing site - well worth a visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Our first visit will not be our last. So many memorials laid out so thoughtfully in beautiful grounds. It is free to enter and the train tour is worthwhile at £5 in order to get your bearings for a later stroll. Very thought provoking
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The UK National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, UK is simply stunning! I last visited the Memorial in 2001, when it was first established. Since then the Memorial has come on leaps and bounds, with a new £15 million Visitor Complex nearing completion. The WW1, WW2, WW3 / Cold War and (other human conflicts) cover over 300 exhibits / sculptures set in 150 acres of gardens and forested lands.
I would highly recommend the Arboretum; especially to those tracing back their family's WW1 / WW2 military history. The sculptures and memorials serve as effective marking points / reminders in World History and Discourse. They also clearly reflect back and remember those that have been lost in executing their military duties, and all should never be forgotten..... :/
Indeed, the Arboretum is fully supported by the UK Royal British Legion and the UK Ministry of Defence and many other esteemed Charities. :)
Thank-you for reading my review and I sincerely hope that you find it all as interesting and informative as me and my father did. It is just great and well worth a visit! :)
I would highly recommend the Arboretum; especially to those tracing back their family's WW1 / WW2 military history. The sculptures and memorials serve as effective marking points / reminders in World History and Discourse. They also clearly reflect back and remember those that have been lost in executing their military duties, and all should never be forgotten..... :/
Indeed, the Arboretum is fully supported by the UK Royal British Legion and the UK Ministry of Defence and many other esteemed Charities. :)
Thank-you for reading my review and I sincerely hope that you find it all as interesting and informative as me and my father did. It is just great and well worth a visit! :)
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
