National Memorial Arboretum
Latest Reviews
Even if, like us, you are not visiting because a loved one is commemorated here, this is a most moving place. The 300 memorials set in 150 acres of woodland beside the River Tame, from the grand for the armed forces, to the tiny plaques for stillborn babies, certainly jolt the emotions.
The whole arboretum is very well set out and beautifully maintained. Unusually for a place that is primarily military, it is not set out in serried ranks, but in less formal groups. As the arboretum was only opened in 2001, it will take many years for the trees to mature; it will be fascinating to watch over the years.
We were there on a gloriously sunny November Saturday. There was a huge number of visitors, but the site is so large that they were easily accommodated without feeling overcrowded. Many children had been taken by parents and especially by grandparents. It is good that youngsters come to places like this.
The whole arboretum is very well set out and beautifully maintained. Unusually for a place that is primarily military, it is not set out in serried ranks, but in less formal groups. As the arboretum was only opened in 2001, it will take many years for the trees to mature; it will be fascinating to watch over the years.
We were there on a gloriously sunny November Saturday. There was a huge number of visitors, but the site is so large that they were easily accommodated without feeling overcrowded. Many children had been taken by parents and especially by grandparents. It is good that youngsters come to places like this.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
this is a wonderful place to visit
The grounds are well kept set out in different forces groups
There are lots of different memorials to stop off at with a magnificent centre piece
The whole thing makes you stop and think of all the forces past and present and what they mean to us as a country
makes you feel humble
everyone should visit and reflect
The grounds are well kept set out in different forces groups
There are lots of different memorials to stop off at with a magnificent centre piece
The whole thing makes you stop and think of all the forces past and present and what they mean to us as a country
makes you feel humble
everyone should visit and reflect
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Our dear friends who died tragically in a road accident are remembered with a tree in the Road Peace Wood and we visit from time to time. It`s lovely to see the development of this amazing place and it`s always busy with people of all ages. New memorials are being added all the time and there is so much to see. It a poignant reminder that we owe much to those who are no longer with us and that we should appreciate every day and never squander time.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Very moving place with fantasic staff who are helpful and knowledgeable. Make sure you leave plenty of time there is so much to see.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We had a fantastic day out, there is plenty to do and see, there is lots of guides to ask questions etc, really brings home how many people gave up their life's for us, quite a moving day.
Andy and Chris
Andy and Chris
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited during half term, with boys (ages 12 & 11). Car park was £3, had no problem at all with paying as the Arboretum itself is free and costs have to be covered somehow.
Had a very full day - took the land-train round to start with so we had some idea of the layout of the site, then spent a (very moving) few hours wandering around looking at all the memorials - we were a little worried beforehand that the boys may be bored but they were not at all, they found the whole experience really interesting.
Lots of different memorials, the site was very well kept, well laid out and easy to navigate with the help of the map - we had to buy the map but as mentioned before, we didn't mind this as any profits go towards keeping this a free-to-enter site.
The restaurant had a good selection and was very busy. Toilets were clean. The gift shop was perhaps the only disappointment, as I'd been hoping to find some prints or perhaps a calendar with some images from around the site, but there was not much really - some poppy themed jewellery and ceramics, but most of the items weren't unique to the site, they were mass produced gift-shop staples (pencils, books, mugs, jams etc) identical to those you could find almost anywhere.
All in all a very interesting and thought provoking day, we spent several hours there and would happily go back again.
Had a very full day - took the land-train round to start with so we had some idea of the layout of the site, then spent a (very moving) few hours wandering around looking at all the memorials - we were a little worried beforehand that the boys may be bored but they were not at all, they found the whole experience really interesting.
Lots of different memorials, the site was very well kept, well laid out and easy to navigate with the help of the map - we had to buy the map but as mentioned before, we didn't mind this as any profits go towards keeping this a free-to-enter site.
The restaurant had a good selection and was very busy. Toilets were clean. The gift shop was perhaps the only disappointment, as I'd been hoping to find some prints or perhaps a calendar with some images from around the site, but there was not much really - some poppy themed jewellery and ceramics, but most of the items weren't unique to the site, they were mass produced gift-shop staples (pencils, books, mugs, jams etc) identical to those you could find almost anywhere.
All in all a very interesting and thought provoking day, we spent several hours there and would happily go back again.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We drove some distant to see the arboretum on our arrival we were surprised at the amount of memorials to all sorts of groups and people. We did like the fact that a lot of the trees were from the places that the memorials depicted but we think another 10 years and it will be much better, the trees more being mature.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We visited here whilst staying in Lichfield.
We have no family connection with any of the memorials but walking around with the brilliant guide
we were very moved by the sacrifices that so many had made to keep our country free.
It's a brilliant place just to wander round and take in the
history of our country. The main wall with the names of the thousands who had died since the end of the last war was very sobering and will live in our memory for ever. We owe those brave people so much.
God Bless Them
We have no family connection with any of the memorials but walking around with the brilliant guide
we were very moved by the sacrifices that so many had made to keep our country free.
It's a brilliant place just to wander round and take in the
history of our country. The main wall with the names of the thousands who had died since the end of the last war was very sobering and will live in our memory for ever. We owe those brave people so much.
God Bless Them
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Beautiful, thought-provoking place which everyone should visit at least once although there is a lot to take in on one visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I am a New Zealander who served five years in South East Asia in the 60s and 70s as part of Far East Air Force (FEAF).. The outstanding memorials to FEAF and Malaya and Borneo veterans brought back many memories. Our Kiwi Squadron - 41 Squadron Royal New Zealand Air Force - served in Singapore and Malaya from 1955 to 1977. I recommend the narrated land train tour of the grounds to get the feel of the arboretum and then shanks pony to see specific items of interest. The highlight of our tour was a visit to the magnificent central Armed Forces Memorial which commemorates those who have been killed on duty or as a result of terrorism from the end of the Second World War to the present day.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
If you are down in the dumps, feeling sorry for yourself, need some inspiration then get yourself to the magnificent National Memorial Arboretum Lichfield, it is set in a beautiful park with ample space to wander at your leisure and to marvel at the fantastic effort that has gone into making your visit an emotional experience. So much has been given by so many in order that mortals like us remain "Free". At the end of your visit I feel sure that you will have a different view on the meaning of life and of those around you. Next time I become uptight or moan about my lot I will think of my visit and just realise how lucky I am, I will someday return.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This is an excellent place to go to remember those who gave their lives. The grounds are extensive and beautifully landscaped. There are memorials to all sorts of services and people. The "shot at dawn" memorial is particularly powerful with wooden posts representing those killed for cowardice . We have a better understanding today of why they may have behaved as they did so it is good that they have been pardoned and recognised. On a final note there is a playground for kids and plenty of picnic space. It rained the day we went but I can recommend the cafe - delicious food.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This is a place to visit on a fine day with little wind if you can. This is a place all nationalities and faiths should visit to see the thousands of service personel killed in war and think of making peace with each other. The truly beautiful sculptures set across the acres commemorating those fallen will remain with me for ever. The 11am ceremony is moving and to stand alongside both veterans present day serving officers is humbling. Peace is needed.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Recognise the sacrifices others have made for our freedoms. Spectacular to walk through the substantial grounds observing the various different memorials, and so nice to see all alongside each other
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Great place for history. So many interesting things to see. Took an 11 year old, great for a school project
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We visited this tranquil place on a midweek afternoon. There were plenty of visitors but as the area is vast, we walked and read the memorials undisturbed. The atmosphere really is beautifully respectful.
The majority of the memorials is dedicated to military regiments or associations and there is an area for civilian individuals remembered by families. We read plaques fixed to the sapling trees which filled us with tears.
A central memorial at the top steps is for those servicemen and women who had been killed in active service since 1945. The park is extremely well equipped with transport methods (scooters, train, etc) to aid less mobile individuals and very helpful and knowledgeable volunteers.
Some of the memorials are artistically clever. The naval memorial is a set of tall blue glass panels with dashes of red to signify bloodshed. At some point in the day, sunlight through the slits of glass creates a reflection on the ground in the shape of a battleship.
One area in the shaded woodland is dedicated to those ‘Shot at Dawn’. Dozens of high single wooden posts are labelled with names often with ‘age unknown’.
We spent two and a half hours which was plenty of time to appreciate a large part of the arboretum and left us with more to see on a further visit.
The majority of the memorials is dedicated to military regiments or associations and there is an area for civilian individuals remembered by families. We read plaques fixed to the sapling trees which filled us with tears.
A central memorial at the top steps is for those servicemen and women who had been killed in active service since 1945. The park is extremely well equipped with transport methods (scooters, train, etc) to aid less mobile individuals and very helpful and knowledgeable volunteers.
Some of the memorials are artistically clever. The naval memorial is a set of tall blue glass panels with dashes of red to signify bloodshed. At some point in the day, sunlight through the slits of glass creates a reflection on the ground in the shape of a battleship.
One area in the shaded woodland is dedicated to those ‘Shot at Dawn’. Dozens of high single wooden posts are labelled with names often with ‘age unknown’.
We spent two and a half hours which was plenty of time to appreciate a large part of the arboretum and left us with more to see on a further visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Despite the cold wind and rain showers this was a very, very special day. The unveiling of the statue to commemorate all the ladies who served their country, without recognition, was memorable. Land 'Girls' aged up to 104 had travelled from far and wide to see the unveiling , by the Countess of Wessex, and were visibly moved by the experience. In the marquee, after the event, the Countess spent quality time with them finding out about their experiences. She was charm itself. The Arboretum is also home to memorials to the Bevan Boys and also has the names of everyone who perished in the wars engraved on a huge hilltop memorial. We had no time to see the other memorials. Well worth a visit for a small car parking fee. A great day out.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The day we went it was horribly cold and windy but there were dozens of land girls out in the weather to inaugurate the monument to their courage in the second world war. The average age must have been over 80 but they had a lovely day. So did we.
The place is a magnificent testament to the fallen and the regard they are held in the nations heart. So very well presented, designed and maintained. The staff at all points was wonderfully helpful and happy. The level of customer care could be a model for many a business!
A great day at a fantastic place. Each citizen of this country should go there at least once. I only wish that the UK government would pay for all development and running costs. This is an expense we should all share willingly.
The place is a magnificent testament to the fallen and the regard they are held in the nations heart. So very well presented, designed and maintained. The staff at all points was wonderfully helpful and happy. The level of customer care could be a model for many a business!
A great day at a fantastic place. Each citizen of this country should go there at least once. I only wish that the UK government would pay for all development and running costs. This is an expense we should all share willingly.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The Ambulance Service Memorial was, until recently, situated near to the exit and car park. It was very difficult to locate. Due to the expansion of the car park, it was necessary to relocate the memorial. It is now in a much more suitable and easily accessible site.
On September 18th, 2014, a ceremony was held to whereby there was a Service of Re-Dedication, which was attended by Ambulance Services across the country, including Scotland and the Isle of Wight
On September 18th, 2014, a ceremony was held to whereby there was a Service of Re-Dedication, which was attended by Ambulance Services across the country, including Scotland and the Isle of Wight
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I've visited this place a couple of times and i think it's a lovely place to walk around and marvel and what people have actually done for us as a country and how they will not be forgotten. Some very lavish structures and very creative and effective areas. The only downside is there should be more to appeal to younger generations.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Having wanted to visit for some time my wife and I made the effort last week. It was a lovely day for a drive so off we went. It isn't far from us, about 40 mins but on the country roads a lovely drive. We didn't really know what to expect but were amazed at what we found. The site is enormous approximately 300 acres with memorials for all branches of the forces and the support services placed throughout the area. The main memorial has all the names carved in stone and to our amazement is right up to date. One rather disturbing note is that there is nearly as much area uncarved as there is already carved!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The arboretum is in a constant state of flux and so provides a passionate experience on each and every occasion. It would be disrespectful to treat the venue as a tourist attraction but there is a remarkable blend of interest and amazed bewilderment around each and every corner that maintains your attention and interest. From the introductory talk at the start of my visit in the Chapel to the dedicated culmination of each benefactors particular memorial, the place is a tribute to those people who deserve our respect, in some instances our sympathy but most of all our thanks!. It is not just an armed forces memorial but a thanksgiving to those around us in everyday life. Those that we often take for granted and never see until we need them.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
It's a few years since we last visited the Arboretum, so it was pleasing to see that many of the trees are becoming established.
Make sure that you arrive in time for the 11.00am Introduction which takes place in the chapel. it begins with the "Last Post" and 2 minutes silence which is a fitting tribute to the heroes of our country who are commemorated here.
The best way to appreciate the Arboretum is to wander around with no particular plan and view the many monuments that have been placed amongst the trees. However, do make sure you visit the "Shot at Dawn" memorial (recognising the men shot for "cowardice" in WW1), it stays in the memory long after you returned home.
Make sure that you arrive in time for the 11.00am Introduction which takes place in the chapel. it begins with the "Last Post" and 2 minutes silence which is a fitting tribute to the heroes of our country who are commemorated here.
The best way to appreciate the Arboretum is to wander around with no particular plan and view the many monuments that have been placed amongst the trees. However, do make sure you visit the "Shot at Dawn" memorial (recognising the men shot for "cowardice" in WW1), it stays in the memory long after you returned home.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
As a service family through the generations, and my husband having been a RN officer for 24 years, during which having served in the 1982 Falklands conflict aboard HMS Antrim, this was a thought provoking, poignant visit. The memorial is tastefully designed and maintained, and proud to be British.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I didn't know really what to expect from this place, but I found it poignant and humbling.
A must, is the land train that takes in most of the park and has very informative dialogue all the way round and the guy that runs it is hilarious.
Truly brilliant place
A must, is the land train that takes in most of the park and has very informative dialogue all the way round and the guy that runs it is hilarious.
Truly brilliant place
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
