National Memorial Arboretum
Latest Reviews
always have lots on, great to be able to have a dedicated place to celebrate what people have fought for for us. Its also great to have a central point for events for things like armed forces day and airborne forces day. I like to spend time visiting those that I have so much to be thankful for
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I have always had the utmost respect for our fallen service personnel. Therefore I had to visit this fantastic memorial to them. It is very humbling to walk around the various memorials to our brave folk. My dearly departed Uncle was a Japanese prisoner of war & I was very moved to visit an area dedicated to him & his comrades. I hope to return again to pay my respects to them all.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We visited the memorial with our two dogs and asked for the dog map. We followed the map carefully not wanting to upset anyone but I think whoever designed it has never even walked a dog. They expect you to tie your dog up while you see the memorials and the path skirts the outside of the arboretum. We only found one "mooring point" which if we left our dogs at they would have howled as it was concealed by some bushes. We coped with this taking it in turns to stand with the dogs while the other person saw the memorial. However we had not realised that we would be told off for sitting at a picnic bench outside the cafe with the dogs sat under best while we are our lunch purchased from the cafe. Being told off for doing wrong without realising it was upsetting and ruined the day for me as I felt like a naughty school girl. My advice- visit, it is an important place but take your dogs somewhere they are actually welcome!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Very thought-provoking, to think of all those who have lost their lives attempting to protect others - the sheer magnitude is very humbling.
I was also impressed to see that virtually every conflict was covered, not just the World Wars but even the individual police forces and Northern Irish conflict.
Highly recommend a visit, everyone should make themselves aware of the cost of freedom and politics.
I was also impressed to see that virtually every conflict was covered, not just the World Wars but even the individual police forces and Northern Irish conflict.
Highly recommend a visit, everyone should make themselves aware of the cost of freedom and politics.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We visited today and we were amazed at how beautiful and moving the arboretum is. The memorials are all so different, the ones we went to see were dedicated to FEPOW and we were surprised to see the names of the POW projected onto the wall inside the FEPOW building. Seeing my father in law's name on there was so moving. Also the part of the Burma Railway. To think it could have been the very part he helped build was too. I cannot understand why people object to the car park fee. £3 is such a small amount to pay to be able to visit. I would gladly pay it every week if I lived closer.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
visited at on a Sunday. Truly an inspirational place and very humbling. think it is a beautifully thought out (and still developing) acknowledgement of what we all owe. even our teenager - who is normally unaffected by most things felt it was a very special place. would just confirm although attraction is free there is a parking fee which is fine but may mislead people not expecting it. thank you
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This is the second time I have been here and again I was taken aback by the magnificent display of so many wonderful memorials. It is so moving to see so many tributes to our armed forces and the personnel who gave their all for their country. It is very nostalgic and all members of the armed forces current or retired will be moved by the area dedicated to them. The trees and flora of the site is wonderful and the catering facilities extremely good. I am glad I came back and will come back in the future. WELL DONE TO ALL THE STAFF.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The land train is the best way to see the whole Memorial. It only costs £5 person and lasts 45 minutes. You can get off at major sites but, you cannot board once off!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This is certainly somewhere thought provoking to visit, from the names of service personnel who have died since the end of the Second World War engraved on the memorial walls to the empty spaces which hopefully will not be filled.
The site is still quite young and the trees have a lot more growing to do but it is well laid out and access is easy. The car park is spacious and the cafe provides good quality fare.
Certainly worth a visit.
The site is still quite young and the trees have a lot more growing to do but it is well laid out and access is easy. The car park is spacious and the cafe provides good quality fare.
Certainly worth a visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Easy to access from A38 near Lichfield, this very large area with many dedicated areas to specific regiments/groups of people who've lost their lives mainly defending our country is well worth a visit. Parking is £3 and admission is FREE. We chose to take their 50 minute, 4mph trolley ride with documentary, which stopped at many destinations pointing out where to look and why areas had been planted in the meaningful way they had. The magnificent centrepiece, with wheelchair access is an ongoing memorial to those who have lost their lives since 1945 and inscribed with new names every year. There are guides to assist you as you visit the many areas. Their café/restaurant is reasonably priced. There is also an ice cream van and outside refreshment area plus gift shop. A very thought provoking, interesting place.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This is a place to go and feel uplifted and a place to be still in both mind and body. I look forward to returning when both trees and size of arboretum have grown. A place to remember both my Grandads.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Coverage on TV made me want to visit and opportunity arose recently when on holiday nearby. Finding it was easy and lunch in the cafe very reasonable then on to visiting in the flesh so to speak. The Armed Forces Memorial is so many things: splendid, imposing, appropriate, thought provoking, a work or rather multiple works of art. Names of all those killed on active service since WW2 are listed in the order they died, by year, service and without rank but with decorations. So many almost every year.and for all of those we think of as being at peace! If you get the chance to listen to one of the volunteer guides do so- ours added so much that we might otherwise have not seen or failed to understand.
Spreading out in all directions are hundreds more memorials, some no more than a single tree with a plaque others like the Basra Memorial Wall with all the original plaques. For those wanting a fifteen minute tour of the whole there is a land train but three hours was for us not enough to see as much as we wanted. Finished our visit in the non denominational chapel which itself was very thought provoking but also peaceful.
We shall return!
Spreading out in all directions are hundreds more memorials, some no more than a single tree with a plaque others like the Basra Memorial Wall with all the original plaques. For those wanting a fifteen minute tour of the whole there is a land train but three hours was for us not enough to see as much as we wanted. Finished our visit in the non denominational chapel which itself was very thought provoking but also peaceful.
We shall return!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The main memorial and the surrounding woods are wonderful.
The commerations include many civilian organisations as well such as the Merchant Navy, Toc H, the salvation Army, the Fire Brigade. The staff, particularly those who walk the grounds are very helpful. The allocation of the plots seems rather haphazard and the quality of the memorials are variable, from traditional military 'spit and polish' to a wonderful cross shaped arbour of different apple trees cordoned trained. The upkeep can be variable too. Apparently an organisation can do the upkeep itself, or contract with the aboretum to do it. If it is too neglected then the arboretum will step in and send the bill [which had just happened with the Trefoil [Guides] garden]. The cafe was reasonably priced. There are steps but basically it was wheelchair accessible. The best comment that we had from a lady passing by us was that it was a wonderfully quiet place to walk and think
The commerations include many civilian organisations as well such as the Merchant Navy, Toc H, the salvation Army, the Fire Brigade. The staff, particularly those who walk the grounds are very helpful. The allocation of the plots seems rather haphazard and the quality of the memorials are variable, from traditional military 'spit and polish' to a wonderful cross shaped arbour of different apple trees cordoned trained. The upkeep can be variable too. Apparently an organisation can do the upkeep itself, or contract with the aboretum to do it. If it is too neglected then the arboretum will step in and send the bill [which had just happened with the Trefoil [Guides] garden]. The cafe was reasonably priced. There are steps but basically it was wheelchair accessible. The best comment that we had from a lady passing by us was that it was a wonderfully quiet place to walk and think
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited here on Bank Holiday Monday. Easy to reach off the A38 and large easy car parking arrangements. £3 for all day parking at a pay and display. We went to visit and try to locate a particular memorial stone. There is a facility at the entrance for people to look for you and point you in the right direction of your memorial. We spend a few hours walking through the memorials and looking at each one. Took a picnic and sat by the river. Lovely serene place. Has to be seen to appreciate how nice it is. Free entry but take a few pounds to donate for various things such as dedicating a leaf on the tree or just making a simple donation.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This is quite a new site and it is always having something added to it. It is vast so I would recommend the trolly ride around the site with interesting dialogue at each place you slowed down . It is not easy to walk up the steps if you are not good on your feet. The restaurant is very well used. Not too expensive, but we took a picnic. The weather has to be good because it is very open and not much cover for rain. Nice interesting shop, lots to browse. Clean toilets
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This place is wonderful and contains much of interest. The staff are extremely knowledgeable and very willing to help. We visited late in the day and they went out of their way to make sure we maximised our time. However, the organisation of the place never seems to have been considered holistically. There appears to be no logical layout and plenty of the green space is not particularly well maintained once you leave the main memorial area.
Finally, the mix of military and civilian memorials is strange and this serves to erode the impact of the site and could be construed as disrespectful to the military.
Finally, the mix of military and civilian memorials is strange and this serves to erode the impact of the site and could be construed as disrespectful to the military.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We were surprised at the size of the site not having expected it to be as large as it is, set beside the river. We had expected the memorials to be only of a military nature but this is not the case by any means, civilian organisations and individuals are also commemorated there. The central memorial commemorating all the service personnel killed since WWII, and there are a lot, is truly impressive. The two groups of sculptures are extremely evocative. Other memorials, particularly that of the Parachute Regt. are very impressive works of art. A tranquil location with space to stroll and reflect on the sacrifices that others have made on our behalf.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I was pleasantly surprised by this truly magical place. It is an enormous site, covering around 150 acres. There are surprises around every corner and I was truly moved by some of the events described very vividly but in such an interesting way. Particularly poignant was the Shot at Dawn memorial, particularly as those men were recently granted a royal pardon. It consisted of a group of named wooden stakes, one for each man, in a woodland glade. I could hardy speak, I felt so emotional. In many of the memorials, there were stories of bravery and courage which were so moving it was hard to keep a dry eye. There are new memorials being built all the time and of course as the trees become more mature, the site will look even more beautiful. We were lucky that the April sun was shining and this made the experience so much more enjoyable. It is however also a very sad place and the stunning Armed Forces Memorial, dedicated to deaths since 1945 just emphasises to me the futility of recent wars. The lovely gardens dedicated to dozens of other well deserved groups of people, Innocent Children, Lifeboat Men Guides, even police dogs and others too numerous to mention. All gave their lives to this country. The National Memorial can only improve with time and I look forward to visiting again in the future.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This relatively new site is beautifully presented on a mainly flat site. The memorials themselves are interesting and varied and the whole site can be viewed from the raised central memorial itself really wonderful (easy access ramps and buggy rides are available). The planting of the site is most thoughtfully done and the tree specimens while marvellous can only improve with age. The site is free to enter and £3 for car park. Another element to the planting scheme is a perfumed garden for blind veterans all absolutely great. All on hand are busy whether setting out up coming displays, driving folk around, making refreshments and making everyone welcome.
Good job well done thanks and congratulations this was a lovely visit.
Good job well done thanks and congratulations this was a lovely visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This is a place I have passed many times on the A38 and thought it was about time to visit. We went the first week of the Easter holidays as they were putting on some craft workshops for the kids. It's free to get in but you pay £3 for all day parking (nicely laid out car park if you are precious about your car like I am!) and you pay for a guide if you want to. It is a beautifully laid out setting with each of the memorials beautifully made. The Armed Forces Memorial was stunning. A quiet place for contemplation and viewing the 16,000 names is quite astounding. We were told that there is space for another 16,000.
We had a meal in the cafe which was nice, the staff were friendly and helpful. My son had a good time making a Chinese wind sock which we had to pay a £1 for. I'm sure he used £5 in materials!
There is a well stocked shop with the usual trinkets and goodies.
All I can say is if you have sometime to spare take a visit to this place. You will be impressed I'm sure.
We had a meal in the cafe which was nice, the staff were friendly and helpful. My son had a good time making a Chinese wind sock which we had to pay a £1 for. I'm sure he used £5 in materials!
There is a well stocked shop with the usual trinkets and goodies.
All I can say is if you have sometime to spare take a visit to this place. You will be impressed I'm sure.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We came here a couple of years ago and was impressed but now there are even more monuments and gardens and it looks like more are being installed. It's a beautiful place and going round seeing the tributes is very emotional - uplifting and draining at the same time. If you've problems walking distances take a trip on the train, there's an informative documentary and the driver is incredibly helpful, and of course the money helps maintain the place. You do pay for parking but it is only £3 for the day. It's well worth a visit or two!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
so well planned and thought out. All aspects of those affected by conflict considered. Brilliant volunteers who are very knowledgeable. A range of tours available from walking tours; the road train, and golf buggy tours. I was impressed how well it caters for those with mobility issues. All in all, I was very impressed, inspired and can highly recommend. Free to enter but pay to park, and there is a donation system I believe if you wish to hire wheel chairs.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
It's a fantastic day out. It's very moving but also very beautiful. The staff are brilliant extremely helpful and informative. You can keep going back time after time as there us so much to see.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I cannot speak highly enough of this place. It is so well thought out and considered, every walk of life who has ever been affected by conflict is represented. It is not just for those interested in military history; nor those who have a personal connection to military personnel; it is for anyone who wants to respect those past and present.
It is very moving, awe inspiring, thought provoking place.
It is also the best place I have ever visited which caters so well for those with mobility issues. There are a range of tours you can take - the guided walks are obviously best for those who can get about on foot; but there are also tours on the land train, or the golf buggy in different parts of the arboretum. There are also plenty of manual and electric scooters at the entrance, so everyone can get about with ease. I went with my mother who is not very mobile, and my 12 year old son, different ends of the "entertainment" spectrum I think you'll agree. But they both absolutely loved it. Me and my son are planning to visit again and we will take the guided walk this time so that we can find out more on foot.
It is very moving, awe inspiring, thought provoking place.
It is also the best place I have ever visited which caters so well for those with mobility issues. There are a range of tours you can take - the guided walks are obviously best for those who can get about on foot; but there are also tours on the land train, or the golf buggy in different parts of the arboretum. There are also plenty of manual and electric scooters at the entrance, so everyone can get about with ease. I went with my mother who is not very mobile, and my 12 year old son, different ends of the "entertainment" spectrum I think you'll agree. But they both absolutely loved it. Me and my son are planning to visit again and we will take the guided walk this time so that we can find out more on foot.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
excellent place to visit ...lovely grounds lots of walks an memorials ,very moving at times ..good facilities and helpful staff
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
