Local Reviews
In August 2024, Mark Russell said about National Memorial Arboretum
Fully deserving of a 5 star rating.
The spectacular and thought-provoking memorials are in a beautifully landscaped and scenic setting, and with pathways and walks (including a lovely riverside walk) which are wide and accessible for all.
Entry to the site is free, although charitable donations are welcomed and much deserved.
Car parking is accessible and can be pre-booked for £4, or pay £6 on the day.
A free site map can be collected at the main reception on entry, or a more detailed guide book can be purchased for £10.
Land train tours of the site with running commentary are available (cost up to £7.50 each) lasting 50 minutes.
Guided walks and buggy tours are also available at a small cost.
There are indoor exhibitions, a restaurant and a coffee shop with additional outside seating, and the gift shop is well worth a visit.
Accessible toilets are located near the main entrance, and also at several other locations across the site (port cabins).
There are a couple of children's play areas, several picnic areas, and a multitude of seats/benches located throughout the site which is extensive and may require more than one visit if you wish to see everything, with more than 400 memorials.
There are some areas that we didn't see, so will definitely return in the near future.
I've posted some photos and a couple of videos which will give you a flavour of what to expect if you decide to visit, which I highly recommend.
Playground: There are a couple of play areas, including one sensory area.
Restrooms: There are several memorial "huts" with seated areas.
Dog-friendliness: Dogs are welcome but must be kept on short leads at all times.
Not allowed in children's play areas, on the Armed Forces Memorial, land trains, buggies, and there are restrictions on indoor spaces.
Picnic area: There are several areas with picnic tables which are designated on the free map.
The spectacular and thought-provoking memorials are in a beautifully landscaped and scenic setting, and with pathways and walks (including a lovely riverside walk) which are wide and accessible for all.
Entry to the site is free, although charitable donations are welcomed and much deserved.
Car parking is accessible and can be pre-booked for £4, or pay £6 on the day.
A free site map can be collected at the main reception on entry, or a more detailed guide book can be purchased for £10.
Land train tours of the site with running commentary are available (cost up to £7.50 each) lasting 50 minutes.
Guided walks and buggy tours are also available at a small cost.
There are indoor exhibitions, a restaurant and a coffee shop with additional outside seating, and the gift shop is well worth a visit.
Accessible toilets are located near the main entrance, and also at several other locations across the site (port cabins).
There are a couple of children's play areas, several picnic areas, and a multitude of seats/benches located throughout the site which is extensive and may require more than one visit if you wish to see everything, with more than 400 memorials.
There are some areas that we didn't see, so will definitely return in the near future.
I've posted some photos and a couple of videos which will give you a flavour of what to expect if you decide to visit, which I highly recommend.
Playground: There are a couple of play areas, including one sensory area.
Restrooms: There are several memorial "huts" with seated areas.
Dog-friendliness: Dogs are welcome but must be kept on short leads at all times.
Not allowed in children's play areas, on the Armed Forces Memorial, land trains, buggies, and there are restrictions on indoor spaces.
Picnic area: There are several areas with picnic tables which are designated on the free map.
Source: google.com
In November 2021, PWNottingham said about National Memorial Arboretum
On our first visit today we thought the NMA was marvellous, predominantly as a place for remembrance, but also for the architecture, sculpture and landscape. We were surprised and moved to see so many very young people some of whom were obviously grieving for those lost in recent conflicts. The NMA was providing a place of beauty and meaning for people to be able to come to grieve and remember. The volunteers added tremendously to our visit by their readiness to help and to give us information. We started our day with the 10.50am visit to the Chapel and the Service of Remembrance which provided an excellent beginning. We then walked around some of the memorials and spent a lot of time at the Armed Services Memorial which we thought has been so cleverly designed, very modern, yet drawing on most probably Stonehenge, ancient Egypt and Classical Greece and Rome to create something incredibly poignant for today. We then had lunch in the Restaurant where we found the food to be ideal for what we wanted. We then had a browse round the shop which we thought was tasteful and sold items suitable for the setting. I bought a guidebook and some cards and chocolates. Time was then passing too quickly and we hadn't seen enough so we decided to book a ride in a buggy with a guide. As it was a short November day this was a brilliant way to see a lot more of the NMA in limited time. After this we felt we would have liked to be here longer so our aim is to visit again. Although the NMA is a place of remembrance we experienced it as somewhere very much "alive" and "of today". Overall we were incredibly impressed and I hope my write up does it some justice but such an emotionally moving place has to be experienced personally so do visit!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In June 2021, Lisa W said about National Memorial Arboretum
I would highly recommended the National Memorial Arboretum to visit and pay your respects. It is a beautiful location and so respectful. Right from our arrival in the car park, which was scheduled due to Covid guidelines, the attendants there were so friendly and polite, and I can say the same about every single member of staff encountered throughout our visit.
We visited both the restaurant and the coffee bar and all food and drink was nice. There is also a shop and toilet facilities.
The location is absolutely full of memorials. We visited on a very sunny day and it was very peaceful to walk down 'The Beat' with memorials and trees planted by police forces in the UK. It is such a serene place, with clearly marked pathways and benches to sit and reflect.
The Shot at Dawn memorial is quite harrowing to see when you think about the representation shown there and the story behind this, which is told in interpretation in a nearby shelter. It is important to know this vital history however so the same mistakes are not made again.
Overall, I could not fault anything about our visit. The car park currently costs £4 per vehicle to park and to get in is free, however, donations are recommended and welcomed, of which I believe is necessary because when you see how immaculate the entire place is, it very much relies on donations and is an important part of our history. There is so much hard work that goes into its upkeep. We saw statues being treated and polished while we were there and the landscaping of the grounds is so wonderful and neat.
We will definitely be visiting again. I visited with my mum. We spent around 4 hours in total there but still didn't get round to see everything due to taking time to reflect.
We visited both the restaurant and the coffee bar and all food and drink was nice. There is also a shop and toilet facilities.
The location is absolutely full of memorials. We visited on a very sunny day and it was very peaceful to walk down 'The Beat' with memorials and trees planted by police forces in the UK. It is such a serene place, with clearly marked pathways and benches to sit and reflect.
The Shot at Dawn memorial is quite harrowing to see when you think about the representation shown there and the story behind this, which is told in interpretation in a nearby shelter. It is important to know this vital history however so the same mistakes are not made again.
Overall, I could not fault anything about our visit. The car park currently costs £4 per vehicle to park and to get in is free, however, donations are recommended and welcomed, of which I believe is necessary because when you see how immaculate the entire place is, it very much relies on donations and is an important part of our history. There is so much hard work that goes into its upkeep. We saw statues being treated and polished while we were there and the landscaping of the grounds is so wonderful and neat.
We will definitely be visiting again. I visited with my mum. We spent around 4 hours in total there but still didn't get round to see everything due to taking time to reflect.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In December 2013, Traveller51_11 said about National Memorial Arboretum
We have only visited the National Memorial Arboretum twice - once in February 2010 and again last month. Just in that short time, it is obvious just how it is flourishing as the "special place honouring those who have served, and continue to serve, our nation .....".
The trees have visibly grown larger and it is not hard to imagine what a beautiful arboretum it will become - sadly, it is a place that has been necessary to create. It had to be done!
The 29th November 2013 was the 70th anniversary of a WW2 Atrocity - the 414 British POW's who lost their lives in the 1943 sinking of the Japanese ship 'Suez Maru' were never given the justice they deserved. Google "Suez Maru" to discover more. One victim's great-niece had the impetus to strive for a memorial to these men and, on the 29th, she and members of other victims' families stood and remembered - reading out all the names of the 414 British men who had perished.
This new memorial stands beside the FEPOW Museum (members of which helped to achieve this memorial too). There is a Memorial in Singapore (at Kranji War Cemetery) but it is only fitting that there is a focal point in the UK for families to visit.
The National Memorial Arboretum appears to be a very well-run centre and all staff/volunteers we met were friendly and helpful. There is a gift shop; tea room; toilets; exhibition area; and a lovely restaurant - all proceeds from the latter (and perhaps from all?) going straight back into the Arboretum. There is a car park fee but no fee into the Memorial site.
Keep up the good work :-)
The trees have visibly grown larger and it is not hard to imagine what a beautiful arboretum it will become - sadly, it is a place that has been necessary to create. It had to be done!
The 29th November 2013 was the 70th anniversary of a WW2 Atrocity - the 414 British POW's who lost their lives in the 1943 sinking of the Japanese ship 'Suez Maru' were never given the justice they deserved. Google "Suez Maru" to discover more. One victim's great-niece had the impetus to strive for a memorial to these men and, on the 29th, she and members of other victims' families stood and remembered - reading out all the names of the 414 British men who had perished.
This new memorial stands beside the FEPOW Museum (members of which helped to achieve this memorial too). There is a Memorial in Singapore (at Kranji War Cemetery) but it is only fitting that there is a focal point in the UK for families to visit.
The National Memorial Arboretum appears to be a very well-run centre and all staff/volunteers we met were friendly and helpful. There is a gift shop; tea room; toilets; exhibition area; and a lovely restaurant - all proceeds from the latter (and perhaps from all?) going straight back into the Arboretum. There is a car park fee but no fee into the Memorial site.
Keep up the good work :-)
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In February 2017, Mallor said about National Memorial Arboretum
We visited these Memorial Grounds on a cold and windy day in February. We were met by a very welcoming volunteer who on learning it was our first visit explained where everything that we need to find was. We attended the 11am remembrance service where there was a man who when the service was over asked permission to read a prayer. This request was granted and the man explained that that day was the 72nd anniversary to the time allowing for time differences that his father was killed in the Far East . This was so emotional and thank you to the volunteer who agreed to the request. It obviously meant a lot to the man and after all that's what the Memorial Grounds are for. The volunteer then explained the history of the Arboretum. We spent a good couple of hours walking round looking at all the various memorials until our faces were frozen stiff with cold. We took a train ride which was well worth the £5 each. It showed us just how much bigger the grounds are than we thought and knew we wouldn't see even half of it in one day. We had a lovely roast dinner where again the staff were very friendly. As it was February and very cold the grounds and restaurant were not too busy but there were still lots of people there and I imagine in the summer it will be packed as it should be. It is obvious that a great deal of thought has gone into the creating and positioning of the memorials and this was explained on the train ride. A trip to the National Memorial Arboretum is a must and we will certainly visit again as there is no way a single trip is sufficient. We went as a mark of respect to all those who have given their lives so that we can live as we do today. There is no charge for entry but £3 all day parking - cheap and the money goes towards the upkeep. I would recommend everyone to take a trip here.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In July 2017, PostiePat said about National Memorial Arboretum
We took older friends who wanted to visit and took the opportunity of booking (on-line) an electric buggy for friend to use which was very helpful as the site covers 150 acres.
We started our visit with the land train ride which takes you along the more formal section and gives you an idea what there is to see and where you'd like to explore later.
We then had lunch, in the very reasonably priced restaurant, before setting off on our own to explore. There is so much to see and the grounds are laid out beautifully with some quite formal gardens near the main centre, but then you can go into the more natural areas with poignant memorials dotted in the trees. The whole site is divided into zones, which helps you plan. A map is available at the entrance desk which we found essential.
There are tracks brought from the Burma/Sumartra railways in the Far East Zone, with a museum close by which gives accounts and photographs from the various campaigns which took place.
A recreated First World War trench has just been completed in the area called the Christmas Truce memorial and is well worth a visit, although right at the far end of arboretum.
A very moving memorial was the "Shot at Dawn" which stands in a clearing in the east of the site, portraying over 300 soldiers who were shot, but then posthumously pardoned in 2006.
The whole site is very atmospheric as you relive the memories of so much suffering and hardship and a place to return to again, as more and more sites are developed.
We actually stayed overnight in the area so that we could return the following morning as there is so much to see and digest, which we felt was beneficial.
We started our visit with the land train ride which takes you along the more formal section and gives you an idea what there is to see and where you'd like to explore later.
We then had lunch, in the very reasonably priced restaurant, before setting off on our own to explore. There is so much to see and the grounds are laid out beautifully with some quite formal gardens near the main centre, but then you can go into the more natural areas with poignant memorials dotted in the trees. The whole site is divided into zones, which helps you plan. A map is available at the entrance desk which we found essential.
There are tracks brought from the Burma/Sumartra railways in the Far East Zone, with a museum close by which gives accounts and photographs from the various campaigns which took place.
A recreated First World War trench has just been completed in the area called the Christmas Truce memorial and is well worth a visit, although right at the far end of arboretum.
A very moving memorial was the "Shot at Dawn" which stands in a clearing in the east of the site, portraying over 300 soldiers who were shot, but then posthumously pardoned in 2006.
The whole site is very atmospheric as you relive the memories of so much suffering and hardship and a place to return to again, as more and more sites are developed.
We actually stayed overnight in the area so that we could return the following morning as there is so much to see and digest, which we felt was beneficial.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2017, Rosslyn R said about National Memorial Arboretum
My Sister Anna's birthday was 1st Aug and she asked if we could visit the N A. Not our first visit and certainly not our last. We try to visit every few months especially when a new memorial is opened.
The whole atmosphere of the place is alive and exciting admission is free although your given many opportunities to donate money. The staff and volunteers are so positive and full of enthusiasm and knowledge it's infectious.
This time we took the little train £6 per adult the journey was at a snails pace giving ample time to take photos. There was a very informative audio soundtrack pointing us in the direction of the next monument and telling us about the service it represented and interesting facts about its construction and about the trees planted around it and why that particular type of tree was chosen. The tour lasted approx 1 hour.
The Chapel is a must to visit the feeling of calm and love in there is wonderful.
Food in the restaurant is varied and offers a good choice of hot and cold at reasonable prices.
The shop has something for everyone prices vary from pocket money to beautiful glassware at quite expensive prices.
All in all a great day despite the rain and once again I came away full of pride and wonder I also gained more knowledge of just what our service people past and present do to keep us safe.
Cannot recommend a visit here enough, even the little children have something to do and they are learning without even realising it.
The whole atmosphere of the place is alive and exciting admission is free although your given many opportunities to donate money. The staff and volunteers are so positive and full of enthusiasm and knowledge it's infectious.
This time we took the little train £6 per adult the journey was at a snails pace giving ample time to take photos. There was a very informative audio soundtrack pointing us in the direction of the next monument and telling us about the service it represented and interesting facts about its construction and about the trees planted around it and why that particular type of tree was chosen. The tour lasted approx 1 hour.
The Chapel is a must to visit the feeling of calm and love in there is wonderful.
Food in the restaurant is varied and offers a good choice of hot and cold at reasonable prices.
The shop has something for everyone prices vary from pocket money to beautiful glassware at quite expensive prices.
All in all a great day despite the rain and once again I came away full of pride and wonder I also gained more knowledge of just what our service people past and present do to keep us safe.
Cannot recommend a visit here enough, even the little children have something to do and they are learning without even realising it.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In December 2014, Simon D said about National Memorial Arboretum
A long promised trip to the Arboretum. It was definitely a walking boots and waterproofs day and it was quite thought provoking to read the memorials - it makes you realise the wide range of professions and backgrounds who gave their life in public service.
Practical bits - we visited on Friday 5 December and it was very quiet. The site is just off the A38 and only signed at the relevant exit.
Car parking is £3 and entry to the venue is free.
Guide book £6 and was well worth the money.
A dinner and coffee was £10 each and was fine.
We spend 4 hours on site, but could have easily spent a full day.
We went to the 11am short service in the church and observed 2 minutes silence. The guides appear to be all volunteers and were excellent.The guides comments and suggestions added to our day, so its worth a listen.
We then started to explore the site, and headed of the police area as a particular interest. Some of the exhibits were more like modern art and very impressive, some more traditional.
The far east area and in particular Burma Star association memorial was tucked away and easily missed but well worth to the visit - the visitors centre was excellent, shared knowledge and dispelled myths about the Bridge over the River Kwai - it wasn't event that river!
We used the restaurant for a coffee stop and lunch and both were fine. Only word of warning - a couple of parts of the restaurant were in a draft as access to the arboretum is through adjacent sliding patio doors.
The place needs to generate and attract serious funding to survive, so dig deep
Practical bits - we visited on Friday 5 December and it was very quiet. The site is just off the A38 and only signed at the relevant exit.
Car parking is £3 and entry to the venue is free.
Guide book £6 and was well worth the money.
A dinner and coffee was £10 each and was fine.
We spend 4 hours on site, but could have easily spent a full day.
We went to the 11am short service in the church and observed 2 minutes silence. The guides appear to be all volunteers and were excellent.The guides comments and suggestions added to our day, so its worth a listen.
We then started to explore the site, and headed of the police area as a particular interest. Some of the exhibits were more like modern art and very impressive, some more traditional.
The far east area and in particular Burma Star association memorial was tucked away and easily missed but well worth to the visit - the visitors centre was excellent, shared knowledge and dispelled myths about the Bridge over the River Kwai - it wasn't event that river!
We used the restaurant for a coffee stop and lunch and both were fine. Only word of warning - a couple of parts of the restaurant were in a draft as access to the arboretum is through adjacent sliding patio doors.
The place needs to generate and attract serious funding to survive, so dig deep
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In June 2013, StagsBOD said about National Memorial Arboretum
I wanted to visit to see "the wall" since I saw it on TV when it opened in 2007. So whilst in Staffs for a visit to an NT place we decided to call in on our way back home. Arriving at 3.30pm I realised that this place was a bit bigger than I originally thought.
The excellent large car park started it off, and then the extrance to the visitor centre made us realise. We found out that there was no charge, and then an assistant approached and asked if we'd come to look for anything in particular. I mentioned "the wall" and he pointed it out in the distance. He mentioned the layout of the 150 acre site (which actually opened in 2001) and all of the other memorials dedicated to different areas of the armed forces.
We went straight to the wall, and very impressive it is, from the clearly displayed panels detailing each armed forces personnel's name to the two magnificently carved statues on either side. It was very moving to see odd photos and notes left by people for their lost family members.
We managed a quick walk over the immaculately tended grounds looking at some of the independant memorials, and a quick look around the chapel.
There is an excellent restaurant, good clean toilets and a gift shop plus a brief display about the arboretum. As requested we made a generous donation to the upkeep of the place.
This attraction caught us unawares. It is vast, brilliantly laid out, so clean and tidy and above all very moving and peaceful. More people should be aware of it and the opportunity it presents for all of us to pay our respects to our armed forces personnel who have passed away in service since 1945.
We will be back with a full half day at least to take it all in. I would suggest a fine day to be able to cover the area in comfort.
The excellent large car park started it off, and then the extrance to the visitor centre made us realise. We found out that there was no charge, and then an assistant approached and asked if we'd come to look for anything in particular. I mentioned "the wall" and he pointed it out in the distance. He mentioned the layout of the 150 acre site (which actually opened in 2001) and all of the other memorials dedicated to different areas of the armed forces.
We went straight to the wall, and very impressive it is, from the clearly displayed panels detailing each armed forces personnel's name to the two magnificently carved statues on either side. It was very moving to see odd photos and notes left by people for their lost family members.
We managed a quick walk over the immaculately tended grounds looking at some of the independant memorials, and a quick look around the chapel.
There is an excellent restaurant, good clean toilets and a gift shop plus a brief display about the arboretum. As requested we made a generous donation to the upkeep of the place.
This attraction caught us unawares. It is vast, brilliantly laid out, so clean and tidy and above all very moving and peaceful. More people should be aware of it and the opportunity it presents for all of us to pay our respects to our armed forces personnel who have passed away in service since 1945.
We will be back with a full half day at least to take it all in. I would suggest a fine day to be able to cover the area in comfort.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In June 2017, RobDavidson said about National Memorial Arboretum
The National Memorial Arboretum is the national site for remembrance and is dedicated to the people who have served this country in the many wars and conflicts over the last century or so.
The main focus of the memorials and tributes is for the military, but there are also areas of tribute to the police, fire and ambulance services that have also played a major part whenever conflict arises.
Set in over 100 acres of grounds, the memorials and gardens are set out in areas that are easily accessed by footpaths and roads, with the additional option of a buggy-hire service (with driver/tour guide) for small groups and also a road train that can take many more passengers around the site.
Also on site is a well-managed, large restaurant and also coffee shops for a quick break. there is also a shop with many gifts and souvenirs for those who wish to purchase them.
Our main aim was to find the memorial to my late uncle who was killed aboard HMS Barham in November 1941, which we did, and were able to purchase a poppy from the on-site Royal British Legion area and place it at the memorial.
An easy to use, interactive screen in the main building allows visitors to search the many memorials that are dotted around the grounds and this also lists the locations of where they are to be found.
We spent the day walking around the site and viewing not only the various memorials, gardens and displays, but also the surrounding landscape (the Rivers Tame and Trent run nearby) and the abundance of wildlife that is also noted on informative boards placed around the pathways at convenient point (making them an ideal educational tool for young children).
Whilst being a very attractive place to visit, it also makes one realise the sacrifices that have been made over the years for our country by so many people of all nationalities and the fact that we must never, ever forget them.
The main focus of the memorials and tributes is for the military, but there are also areas of tribute to the police, fire and ambulance services that have also played a major part whenever conflict arises.
Set in over 100 acres of grounds, the memorials and gardens are set out in areas that are easily accessed by footpaths and roads, with the additional option of a buggy-hire service (with driver/tour guide) for small groups and also a road train that can take many more passengers around the site.
Also on site is a well-managed, large restaurant and also coffee shops for a quick break. there is also a shop with many gifts and souvenirs for those who wish to purchase them.
Our main aim was to find the memorial to my late uncle who was killed aboard HMS Barham in November 1941, which we did, and were able to purchase a poppy from the on-site Royal British Legion area and place it at the memorial.
An easy to use, interactive screen in the main building allows visitors to search the many memorials that are dotted around the grounds and this also lists the locations of where they are to be found.
We spent the day walking around the site and viewing not only the various memorials, gardens and displays, but also the surrounding landscape (the Rivers Tame and Trent run nearby) and the abundance of wildlife that is also noted on informative boards placed around the pathways at convenient point (making them an ideal educational tool for young children).
Whilst being a very attractive place to visit, it also makes one realise the sacrifices that have been made over the years for our country by so many people of all nationalities and the fact that we must never, ever forget them.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk