National Memorial Arboretum
Latest Reviews
Aboretum...trees... you think you'll be talking a walk a forest of some sort.
Nothing like it at all.
The first thng that hits you is the openness of the place. 150 acres made up of flat land, well manicured expanses of grass areas, groves rather than forests - and of course the memorials, hundreds of them.
It's a nature reserve, it's well managed gardens, it's history, it's education.
But above all it's memories. Stunning dedications not just to those who served and died in the service of the UK, but of the days of the British Empire and our Commonwealth - Nyasaland and Southern Africa, Rhodesian Rifles, the Far East, ANZACS. The Armed Services of course, and the centrepiece wall of remembrance with its stunning and poignant sculptures.
Wander as I did for 2-3 hours and you come upon a memorial that's not just 'in memory of' but gives an insight into the past.
One of the most enlightening for me was the role that the Society of Friends (Quakers) have played - medical and welfare assistance to all in theatres of combat, regardless of nationality. Conscientous Objectors, still able to serve in some way.
As you'll gather, this isn't just a military memorial site.
Roam as I did and happen upon the children's area.
A large grove of trees, each dedicated to someone lost too early. I defy anyone not to be overcome.
The National Memorial Arboretum ranks up there with one of the best attractions I've EVER visited.
Everything seems to be so well thought out. There's even a hop-on hop-off land train giving a guided tour.
As I've said, it's many things in one and I'd have thought that whatever you go there for you'll be satisfied, whether you stay an hour (which would be far too short I think) or a day.
Nothing like it at all.
The first thng that hits you is the openness of the place. 150 acres made up of flat land, well manicured expanses of grass areas, groves rather than forests - and of course the memorials, hundreds of them.
It's a nature reserve, it's well managed gardens, it's history, it's education.
But above all it's memories. Stunning dedications not just to those who served and died in the service of the UK, but of the days of the British Empire and our Commonwealth - Nyasaland and Southern Africa, Rhodesian Rifles, the Far East, ANZACS. The Armed Services of course, and the centrepiece wall of remembrance with its stunning and poignant sculptures.
Wander as I did for 2-3 hours and you come upon a memorial that's not just 'in memory of' but gives an insight into the past.
One of the most enlightening for me was the role that the Society of Friends (Quakers) have played - medical and welfare assistance to all in theatres of combat, regardless of nationality. Conscientous Objectors, still able to serve in some way.
As you'll gather, this isn't just a military memorial site.
Roam as I did and happen upon the children's area.
A large grove of trees, each dedicated to someone lost too early. I defy anyone not to be overcome.
The National Memorial Arboretum ranks up there with one of the best attractions I've EVER visited.
Everything seems to be so well thought out. There's even a hop-on hop-off land train giving a guided tour.
As I've said, it's many things in one and I'd have thought that whatever you go there for you'll be satisfied, whether you stay an hour (which would be far too short I think) or a day.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Spent the full day (26th July) at the National Memorial Arboretum. An outstanding and fitting way of showing the nation's respect for our fallen. Unfortunately, it rained all day but no problem, my friend and I just made a couple of 'Tactical Withdrawals' back to the Visitor Centre where we had coffee breaks and lunch. The staff and volunteers were all welcoming and friendly. Our visit coincided with a wreath laying ceremony by the veterans of the Korean War. It was good to see so many people catching up with each other and sharing their stories. Also, I was able to find my Step Uncle's name; Robertson D - (Army) Derek Robertson, youngest son of George and Ruby. Brother of Ernest, Gladys and Katherine. Killed in Korea, 1953. He is remembered. Armed Forces Memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum. My friend and I were able to spend the whole day, 1030hrs - 1630hrs. It is so interesting that the time past without a drag. We hope to return - when the sun shines:))
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Hired a motorised scooter for elderly father so he could visit everywhere he wanted. Staff were very friendly and helpful. Fascinating place with memorials to all branches of the Military from WW2 onwards. A great day out that we all enjoyed.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Wonderful presentations and memorials which illustrate the sacrifices made by many thousands of men and women to defend Great Britain over many years.
A touching and moving experience not to be missed.
A touching and moving experience not to be missed.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A wonderful place of remembrance. Monuments to various groups, mostly military but also other sites for others who need to be remembered.
Very good facilities of all sorts, plus a shop with many interesting items for sale.
Very good facilities of all sorts, plus a shop with many interesting items for sale.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A very emotional and humbling memorial to our serving forces, both past and present. We came away feeling thankful for our ancestors who lost their lives in the various battles/wars to give us a better future. The gardens and memorials are beautifully kept. The café served a lovely selection of food and drinks. There is a 'train' which takes you around with piped information about the various sites - suitable for those with limited mobility.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A humbling and emotional visit to the 150 acre National Memorial Arboretum. A fitting tribute to all those who have given their life for this country since the end of World War 2 . Many of the regimental monuments are quite outstanding. If you are of advanced years or lacking in fitness as, understandably, most visitors seemed to be I would suggest using the land train to get an overall picture of the site. Otherwise you will need several visits to view everything.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Magnificent. Humbling experience. Allow plenty of time to see the place. One visit might not be enough.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Have wanted to visit the Arboretum for a number of years but was unsure if it was dog friendly as it would mean a few days away in the caravan with 4 legged friend in tow! Well yes it is dog friendly but, they fail to tell you until you arrive that you need to follow the dog walk around the perimeter, therefore missing over 50% of the memorials! Your either dog friendly or not, even if they asked you to keep to footpaths you would see a bit more! So I'm now waiting to go home and look at hubby's photos instead!
While walking round the dog walk, a few people came up to say hello to our well behaved black lab and we're really surprised at the restrictions in place. Having owned dogs for over 20 years we have never been so restricted in places that allow dogs. Now need to arrange another visit to see everything missed!
You are either dog friendly or not!
While walking round the dog walk, a few people came up to say hello to our well behaved black lab and we're really surprised at the restrictions in place. Having owned dogs for over 20 years we have never been so restricted in places that allow dogs. Now need to arrange another visit to see everything missed!
You are either dog friendly or not!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This is a wonderful attraction that reminds us of what others do for us. The memorial is beautifully designed and very moving.
One can get also get something to eat and drink while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
One can get also get something to eat and drink while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
If you are ex military or the relative of an ex military serviceman the Arboretum is a must visit place. It is beautifully arranged and laid out and offers respectful remembrance in a dignified and humble manner
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
very peaceful beautiful area. Helpful guides. Good idea to take the little train round first to get your bearings. Good restaurant. Toilet facilities could be better.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I recently visited this vast attraction, 150 acres of memorials from every possible war/conflict, dedicated to the many,many people who have died for their country or in the name of peace.
I chose to do the land train tour which was informative but I felt like I was watching a game of tennis looking from left to right at each memorial! As the site is so big it is helpful to have the land train & also 'golf' type buggies to take you around the larger exhibits but I then went to explore areas missed from the main route as there are several out of the way.
New memorials are added regularly & one of the newest is the Bastion monument for the recent conflict in Afghanistan, I was reduced to tears at several of them, particularly when the wreaths had photos of lost loved ones in them.
I was taken aback by the number of posts dedicated to each man at the 'Shot at Dawn' memorial & how young the majority of the victims were, thank goodness they finally got their posthumous pardon.
A truly inspiring & thought-provoking place to visit.
I chose to do the land train tour which was informative but I felt like I was watching a game of tennis looking from left to right at each memorial! As the site is so big it is helpful to have the land train & also 'golf' type buggies to take you around the larger exhibits but I then went to explore areas missed from the main route as there are several out of the way.
New memorials are added regularly & one of the newest is the Bastion monument for the recent conflict in Afghanistan, I was reduced to tears at several of them, particularly when the wreaths had photos of lost loved ones in them.
I was taken aback by the number of posts dedicated to each man at the 'Shot at Dawn' memorial & how young the majority of the victims were, thank goodness they finally got their posthumous pardon.
A truly inspiring & thought-provoking place to visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Even though the coffee shop is quite small. It serves a purpose for visitors to the NMA. It serves hot food, selection of cakes and a few gluten free options and hot and cold drinks.
It is reasonably priced for the quality of food. Really good place to sit and get your bearings of what to do and where to go.
It is reasonably priced for the quality of food. Really good place to sit and get your bearings of what to do and where to go.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I visited this Memorial Arboretum and spent a few hours walking around the sombre site very sad and well worth looking at to appreciate the reality of what happened over the last 100 years, I would visit again the grounds are kept immaculate and superbly clean and tidy well worth a visit
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This is the second time I have visited this amazing place. I was amazed at how big this place has grown since our last visit. And we still didn't do it all. If we hadn't know about the golf buggy tours to the far end of the site to see some of the newer memorials. Will definitely go back to do the other end of the site.
So pleased that we managed to see the bastian wall specially commissioned for the memory of the fallen.
The volunteering staff were friendly and knowledgeable about where certain memorials.
Will be back.
So pleased that we managed to see the bastian wall specially commissioned for the memory of the fallen.
The volunteering staff were friendly and knowledgeable about where certain memorials.
Will be back.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This was not our first visit this year but thought our 83yr old uncle from New Zealand might enjoy the day out at this special place of remembrance not only for the Forces but for those who mourn those who have died belonging to other groups such as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.
It is always worth buying the site map, so much changes so quickly with new memorials being added month by month, and sitting down with a drink from the cafeteria before venturing out, otherwise you may not get to see all the memorials that you want to see. Use the loos here as well as there are none until you return to the visitor centre.
The most poignant "must sees" are the Chapel, The Garden of the Innocents, the Armed Forces Memorial and Shot at Dawn then as we did select ones that have a particular resonance with your own life experiences or family connections.
The site is large and for those with mobility problems take advantage of the land train, golf buggies or mobility scooters for hire. A new addition are the guided tours using the volunteer guides.
Each time I visit I learn something new from helpful guides dotted about the arboretum.
Having seen nearly everything we wanted to see we took advantage of the cafeteria for a cake and a cuppa before setting off in the opposite direction for the last 2 memorials we wanted to see the Fleet Air Arm and RAF Halton.
Proceeds from the cafeteria, full lunches and snacks are available as are gluten-free options, and any donation go to the upkeep of the NMA.. If you make a donation and are a UK tax payer please gift aid it so that the NMA can claim additional income.
Blue Badge car parking by the entrance - others have to park in the overspill and walk down the lane.
A temporary entrance and visitor centre will open in July whilst the new visitor centre is being built.
It is always worth buying the site map, so much changes so quickly with new memorials being added month by month, and sitting down with a drink from the cafeteria before venturing out, otherwise you may not get to see all the memorials that you want to see. Use the loos here as well as there are none until you return to the visitor centre.
The most poignant "must sees" are the Chapel, The Garden of the Innocents, the Armed Forces Memorial and Shot at Dawn then as we did select ones that have a particular resonance with your own life experiences or family connections.
The site is large and for those with mobility problems take advantage of the land train, golf buggies or mobility scooters for hire. A new addition are the guided tours using the volunteer guides.
Each time I visit I learn something new from helpful guides dotted about the arboretum.
Having seen nearly everything we wanted to see we took advantage of the cafeteria for a cake and a cuppa before setting off in the opposite direction for the last 2 memorials we wanted to see the Fleet Air Arm and RAF Halton.
Proceeds from the cafeteria, full lunches and snacks are available as are gluten-free options, and any donation go to the upkeep of the NMA.. If you make a donation and are a UK tax payer please gift aid it so that the NMA can claim additional income.
Blue Badge car parking by the entrance - others have to park in the overspill and walk down the lane.
A temporary entrance and visitor centre will open in July whilst the new visitor centre is being built.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We arrived early one morning, as the Arboretum opened and parked in the grass field car park - £3 a day payable at the desk in reception. We were met by a very friendly and helpful guide who explained the lay out to us nothing was too much trouble. Leaving the reception area there is small kiosk where you can buy a guide book along with a map to help you along your way. We decided to take the first train around the grounds and found this extremely useful to get our bearings for the rest of the day - at a cost of £5 per.person. All proceeds go towards the upkeep of the this National Treasure which costs £4000 a day. Our journey around the Memorial lasted about 45 minutes and we decided to return to the reception so that we could attend the two minutes silence in the Millennium Chapel near the visitors centre; this takes place at 11.00 a.m. followed by a very interesting short presentation on the history of the Arboretum - very interesting and extremely emotional. There are so many memorials for you to see in such a tranquil and serene setting befitting our fallen heroes. There is a cafe on site along with a shop for you to buy that little memento to take home.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Huge open are would need a full day to walk round every memorial. Amazing tribute to all the fallen soldiers and eye opening to see all the names on the main wall. Lots to see and well stocked shop and cafe
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Thought provoking with reminders of the sacrifice of so many young lives to allow us to live in freedom.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The cafe on site is smallish, but has a good selection of hot and cold food and proves popular with visitors of all ages.
The food is reasonably priced and it is unlike most attraction food providers where visitors feel ripped off by operator with over expensive food.
It is close enough to the arrival area, and the shop so as it is easy to find and enjoy
The food is reasonably priced and it is unlike most attraction food providers where visitors feel ripped off by operator with over expensive food.
It is close enough to the arrival area, and the shop so as it is easy to find and enjoy
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Having visited in the past, during the autum, when the ground was very wet and most of the site was only accessible using the laid out permanent paths, we vowed to return in summer, so that we could explore properly.
Today was,that day, even though it was overcast and eventually turned to rain. As a party covering mid 20 to mid 50's we went our separate ways after visiting the central memorial - this is a truly inspiring place, but worryingly the designers have left many more panels for names to be engraved in the future recognising that the sacrifice of our armed services will continue into the future.
My wife and I walked the beat and found memorials to the two Met offices we knew who died in the line of duty.
We then spent time at the memorials for the Gulf Wars, Afghanistan and the Falklands being wars of our time.
The site is vast, we spend 3 hours wandering around the site, but only completed about half of it, before the rain forced us inside for tea and cake.
This is a memorial like no other, it is growing with more being added between our visits. It is one that potentially we could visit time and again to pay respect to the armed services, the support services and others that make this country free.
Today was,that day, even though it was overcast and eventually turned to rain. As a party covering mid 20 to mid 50's we went our separate ways after visiting the central memorial - this is a truly inspiring place, but worryingly the designers have left many more panels for names to be engraved in the future recognising that the sacrifice of our armed services will continue into the future.
My wife and I walked the beat and found memorials to the two Met offices we knew who died in the line of duty.
We then spent time at the memorials for the Gulf Wars, Afghanistan and the Falklands being wars of our time.
The site is vast, we spend 3 hours wandering around the site, but only completed about half of it, before the rain forced us inside for tea and cake.
This is a memorial like no other, it is growing with more being added between our visits. It is one that potentially we could visit time and again to pay respect to the armed services, the support services and others that make this country free.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I am not a person who generally seeks out these kind of places but a friend of mine really wanted to go, so we stopped by on our way to Stratford upon Avon. I am so glad I went. This is a place of real peace and tranquility. It is genuinely a fitting tribute to all of those who lost their lives in the wars. There are far more battles and wars represented than I realised.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
There are more memorials every week it seems and it wasn't that long ago I was last there. There were several memorials being updated, improved and developed as well as totally new ones. The site is about to undergo a massive development which will create a lot of changes. We had a fantastic guide in David who coached a buggy all over the Aboretum - an essential for a disabled colleague. This is a terrific way to see the site which anyone can do but you need to book in advance and then use the comprehensive knowledge of a guide like David. It is a brilliant day out with a break for lunch in the very good restaurant.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We were really looking forward to our visit and were impressed by the way in which we were met by very helpful volunteers. The memorials are very impressive and thought provoking but the site is way to big to explore on foot. We decide to take the train tour, but this was a mistake. The commentary which could have given so much information was totally drowned out by the selfish, insensitive fellow passengers who shared our carriage. It was only on our way out of the site that we discovered the train is a privately run enterprise and we could have taken a buggy tour instead. The Arboretum however is well worth a visit, - but avoid the train.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
