National Memorial Arboretum
Latest Reviews
I attended this event for the second time with my daughter and found the whole event simply outstanding! The arboretum itself is absolutely lovely and is well maintained and has fantastic facilities. The RTTW event is well planned and managed by all of the volunteer staff who do a wonderful job of getting everyone in and out with minimal fuss. I will be attending again next year and hope to encourage even more to do the same. Brilliant!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Fabulous place, sad, poinient and respectful. Everyone should visit and pay their respects. Excited to go back and see the new visitor centre opening at the end of October 2016.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The most moving place I have visited ,staff very friendly (had a cracking chicken and rice stir fry from a couple of lovely Ladies👍)you do need a whole day to fully appreciated the amount of memorials ,never had the chance on my first visit which was with the RTTW Bikers 2016 ,a fantastic bunch of motorcyclists remembering the men and women (and on one plaque a 16 year old cabin boy)who made the ultimate sacrifice so we can live the life we all lead today . Please visit and take Big box of tissues .
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Although very wet due to constant rain the day was an excellent day to remember. As this is one of the busiest days at the Arboretum, many volunteer staff were on duty. Never met one on the day who was downhearted with the weather. They were very polite and approachable. Willing to help. Always a pleasure to make a visit to the NMA not matter what time of year.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I go to the NMA frequently, living so close makes this possible.
Each time I discover something new, or make a new memory.
This year I first went in May, to watch a presentation of a number plate that had been auctioned for RTTW. Small as it was, it was a poignant moment for those involved and I was able to take some lovely photos of the occasion.
Going back in July to paint my solider for the Somme Tribute, on a sunny afternoon off work. A peaceful and mindful experience, that moved me to tears.
And this last weekend, for Ride To The Wall. This year as a volunteer Marshall. The one day of the year when the peace is interrupted by upwards of 6000 motorbikes, riders, pillys and other attendees coming together to pay their respects. Words cannot explain the sight this is and the emotions it brings. Seeing grown men and women.....all in biker gear.....in tears ...some of grief...some of happiness at reunions of old friends, but all of respect. I cannot explain.
The different memorials, reading the names on the plaques on the trees and benches dedicated to those who have passed.....the Shot at Dawn Memorial which breaks my heart.
The NMA costs nothing to gain entry, donations are optional. I cannot express how much I love this place and without fail everyone I have taken to visit has fallen in love with it.
The facilities are being upgraded and due to open this/next month. There are always lots of events....small unplanned ones, and those on a bigger scale. I hope to go to the twilight walk and Christmas Carol events, as I've not really been in the winter.
If you have the chance, whether for the day, or as I sometimes do....just for an hour....then go there. You will not be disappointed.
Each time I discover something new, or make a new memory.
This year I first went in May, to watch a presentation of a number plate that had been auctioned for RTTW. Small as it was, it was a poignant moment for those involved and I was able to take some lovely photos of the occasion.
Going back in July to paint my solider for the Somme Tribute, on a sunny afternoon off work. A peaceful and mindful experience, that moved me to tears.
And this last weekend, for Ride To The Wall. This year as a volunteer Marshall. The one day of the year when the peace is interrupted by upwards of 6000 motorbikes, riders, pillys and other attendees coming together to pay their respects. Words cannot explain the sight this is and the emotions it brings. Seeing grown men and women.....all in biker gear.....in tears ...some of grief...some of happiness at reunions of old friends, but all of respect. I cannot explain.
The different memorials, reading the names on the plaques on the trees and benches dedicated to those who have passed.....the Shot at Dawn Memorial which breaks my heart.
The NMA costs nothing to gain entry, donations are optional. I cannot express how much I love this place and without fail everyone I have taken to visit has fallen in love with it.
The facilities are being upgraded and due to open this/next month. There are always lots of events....small unplanned ones, and those on a bigger scale. I hope to go to the twilight walk and Christmas Carol events, as I've not really been in the winter.
If you have the chance, whether for the day, or as I sometimes do....just for an hour....then go there. You will not be disappointed.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I attended my 8th RTTW on 1/10/16 to conduct my business of paying my respects to the fallen that "can no longer ride by our side". To me, this is the single most important motorcycling event on the calendar. The NMA is a wonderful venue, well organised by both NMA staff and volunteers, and of course the RTTW crew and marshals. This year, the weather was inclement. Did we care. Of course not. We were there en masse from across Europe proudly riding our bikes and trikes TO PAY OUR RESPECTS TO THE FALLEN. Lest we forget. The NMA is a wonderful memorial that you should attend rain or shine. It will leave you with a lasting impression of the sacrifice made by all whose names are indelibly written on the wall.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
went to the National Memorial Arboretum on Saturday 4/10/16 with approx. 6500 other bikes for the yearly RTTW it was a good day with every body helpful(staff and Marshalls alike) bring on 2017.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Ride To The Wall is not for fun but to pay respects in a way that brings strangers together and entitle us to call each other "family". No matter why you're there it is a truly moving experience and a way to show mourning families that their sacrifice is not forgotten.
My small way of saying "thank you" without knowing any of them.
From the bottom of my heart THANK YOU and long may this tradition continue xx
My small way of saying "thank you" without knowing any of them.
From the bottom of my heart THANK YOU and long may this tradition continue xx
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I attend the nma as often as I can. This was my 5 RTTW. And as ever there was no disappointment. Even the bad weather didn't tarnish the day. Beautiful settings fantastic event. If you've never attended the nma I highly recommend you pay it a visit
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We attended the NMA by car for our second RTTW. The rain came down in torrents, but it didn't dampen anyone's enthusiasm for the event. We had been well informed about the works taking place and also knew that the environment was all outdoors, so we were well prepared for the weather, and the volume of attendance. Understandably, there were queues for everything, but there was a lot of happy banter between individuals, despite being somewhat moist. Everything was well organised, not only by the NMA staff themselves, but also by the numerous volunteers for the RTTW. Everyone was well informed, courteous and helpful. The Service of Remembrance was wonderful, you could have heard a pin drop during the observance of The Silence, apart from a beautifully choreographed (by nature) fly past by a flock of geese in formation. Parking was more than adequate with a shuttle bus service running regularly. Additional refreshment facilities were provided to cater for the increased volume of visitors on this occasion. We really cannot fault the organisation of all involved and the attention to detail to ensure that everyone was able to gain the best experience from their visit. The grounds are beautifully maintained, every memorial is a wonderful tribute and opportunity to spend some time in reflection for those who gave their lives. It was a pleasure and an honour to attend, and we hope to return during the year to be able to see more than is possible in one visit. You definitely need to allow plenty of time, but you will not be disappointed. Although this would be regarded as a solemn event, which it is, there were many children and young people attending, and they were able to pay their respects in their own ways, which is also important for them. Due to the size of the venue, it is important to wear suitable footwear and be prepared for walking, although a land train, and mobility scooters (pre-booking advised) are available.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This is such a wonderful place. It is situated in very large grounds. For those who dont want to walk there is a little train to take people around it also has commentary. £2.00. If you do want to walk I suggest comfortable shoes. There is no entrance fee , so I gave a good donation, this place is very well kept and well worth a visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
My 9th Ride To The Wall, together with thousands of fellow bikers and like minded people to Remember Our Fallen. Despite the weather, it was a fantastic, humbling event. ALWAYS a pleasure to visit here at any time. Tremendous place help 'keep you grounded'.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Travelled up as part of Ride to the Wall 2016 (World Wide Web ridetothewall) Thousands of like minded motorcyclists all there to pay our respects in remembrance.
Even the weather could not put a dampener on the proceedings. All the staff and volunteers were cheerful and helpful. I have attended for the last 7 years and have seen the Arboretum grow and mature into the lovely place it has now become...
Was well aware that both the visitor center and the "Wall" were closed for update. This has been common knowledge for a year or more now. But cannot wait for my next visit when both will be open.
Even the weather could not put a dampener on the proceedings. All the staff and volunteers were cheerful and helpful. I have attended for the last 7 years and have seen the Arboretum grow and mature into the lovely place it has now become...
Was well aware that both the visitor center and the "Wall" were closed for update. This has been common knowledge for a year or more now. But cannot wait for my next visit when both will be open.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Our first visit to the Arboretum and what an interesting and emotional day we had. Every monument, plaque and tree has a meaning which makes you think of the past and of the future.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Attended the NMA last Saturday with a few other Motorcyclists!! to attend the annual Ride to the Wall, (RTTW) as always on this event it was teeming with like minded Visitors and as always the Staff of the NMA were Helpful, and Cheery, despite the Weather, can't wait to return Myself for next Years RTTW, and am going to come sometime before that to have a quieter closer look. Roll on Next Year and thanks to everybody at the NMA, and of course the RTTW Organisers for the Efforts that went into making this a great Day. BZ.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Been coming here since 2010, Ride To The wall is an amazing experience, I go to place a cross with a friend that "can no longer ride by my side". It is an awe inspiring day,
If you want to see a massive tribute to our fallen, then the 1st of October then come to Ride to The Wall. 20,00 people fall silent during the last post, meeting many friends old and new. Also go on quieter days,it's not a depressing type atmosphere, it's reflection and rememberance, and the staff are FANTASTIC. You will see people laughing, enjoying time there, That's what it's meant to be.
The new visitor centre will be open in a few weeks, I will be riding down again then.
If you want to see a massive tribute to our fallen, then the 1st of October then come to Ride to The Wall. 20,00 people fall silent during the last post, meeting many friends old and new. Also go on quieter days,it's not a depressing type atmosphere, it's reflection and rememberance, and the staff are FANTASTIC. You will see people laughing, enjoying time there, That's what it's meant to be.
The new visitor centre will be open in a few weeks, I will be riding down again then.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A remarkable place to visit especially if in the company of friends with similar interests. It is a large but friendly place with ongoing development. It is often quiet apart from current expansion work and the usual work associated with maintaining an arboretum. On one day of the year it will be exceptionally busy that is the first Saturday in October where thousands of motorbikes, trikes, scooters arrive to pay respect to the nations fallen. If you don't like to wait a long time for refreshments or toilets don't visit on this day. Sadly they have no control over weather conditions. Allow a full day at least to get around all the memorials unless you are only coming to see one specific memorial. I just wish I could get there more often myself.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
My 9th Ride To The Wall, together with thousands of fellow bikers and like minded people to Remember Our Fallen. Despite the weather, it was a fantastic, humbling event. ALWAYS a pleasure to visit here at any time. Tremendous place help 'keep you grounded'.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A fantastic event where Bikers show there gratitude to fallen members of the armed forces. The arboretum is a beautiful place to visit and the wall of names is a site to behold. The grounds are well kept and a pleasure to walk around . The RTTW event is a fantastic day where bikers from all over the world come to share their respect for the fallen, this annual event generates a large sum of money for the Arboretum donated by the bikers. The 2016 event has just passed and i cant wait for 2017.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited the NMA for second time last weekend, the grounds are a perfect tribute to those who laid their lives for the freedom we currently have, for those who have lost friends and family it gives a place to think and remember them.
The grounds ate impeccably looked after and the staff couldn't have been more friendly, respectful and helpful, I'd recommend this place to anyone.
The grounds ate impeccably looked after and the staff couldn't have been more friendly, respectful and helpful, I'd recommend this place to anyone.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Came for the 2nd time for the RTTW. Such an emotional, humbling place. The site was partially closed for necessary work and the weather was horrible but it didn't spoil anything. The staff and all concerned did an amazing job to keep things running smoothly without ruining the event or the emotional feeling of the whole place. Well done the place is a credit to all concerned in its upkeep
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Oct 1st every year is when thousands of bikers make their way to the NMA,To remember those who have fallen in armed conflict and those who have served and are serving in the Armed services.It was our first visit on a wild wet day,and it wont be our last,It was a well organized event, and cannot praise the volunteers enough,who stood out all day in the monsoon like rain.making things run so smoothly.Cannot wait for next year,Rain or Shine.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Sadly it does rain, its called Weather and this being an Outdoor Venue it will get wet and muddy, especially when hundreds of people all want to remember their lost Loved ones, Friends and acquaintances.
A beautiful, place giving dignity and honour to those who have given their lives for this country.
Obviously some people will moan about the grass being wet and areas that have become muddy due to heavy foot traffic, but it is possible they would give an excellent rating to a fast food place!
A great place to visit and you will be astounded by the monuments and tributes erected in remembrance of our brave men and women of the British Armed Forces, from many different countries.
Staff on hand are helpful and find nothing too much trouble to help you with, except maybe drying the grass for you to walk on, that is I expect impossible for anyone to do for you.
A beautiful, place giving dignity and honour to those who have given their lives for this country.
Obviously some people will moan about the grass being wet and areas that have become muddy due to heavy foot traffic, but it is possible they would give an excellent rating to a fast food place!
A great place to visit and you will be astounded by the monuments and tributes erected in remembrance of our brave men and women of the British Armed Forces, from many different countries.
Staff on hand are helpful and find nothing too much trouble to help you with, except maybe drying the grass for you to walk on, that is I expect impossible for anyone to do for you.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The first Saturday of October every year for the last 9 years thousands of bikers have rode to the NMA to raise funds for the upkeep of the NMA and to pay their respect to all those whose name is on the Armed Forces Memorial (aka The Wall).
This is an incredible event to see and be a part of. No matter what the weather people turn up to show their support in incredible numbers.
All of this is organised by a team of volunteers. What amazing people they are.
This is an incredible event to see and be a part of. No matter what the weather people turn up to show their support in incredible numbers.
All of this is organised by a team of volunteers. What amazing people they are.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This is a truely special place will definetly be returning for a whole day just to look around and explore the place so much to see and places to show respect to fallen soldiers! On the day of RTTW the weather was awful and destroyed many areas of grass hoping not to much long lasting damage has been caused! Enjoyed my day so much so much pride, passion and pain on show! A truely special event!!! 🖒🖒
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
