Local Reviews
In January 2014, Les said about National Memorial Arboretum
I am a regular visitor to the National Memorial Arboretum and I have walked round it with my wife in rain and sunshine, never tiring of the beauty of the whole site, the gardens, trees, the wildlife, but most of all the reminders throughout of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice from the armed services, the police and fire services, and civilians who gave their lives for this country.
Every time I visit there always seems to be another new monument or garden that has been opened or upgraded and the site is now maturing in such a beautiful a way that no-one could ever imagined when it was first opened.The Armed Forces Memorial opened by HM The Queen is a stunning example of architecture, poignant, yet uplifting and should always be included in your tour together with a visit to the chapel where a service of remembrance is held each day at 11am.
The volunteers on the site are always knowledgeable, always welcoming and are great ambassadors for the NMA.
My greatest pleasure is seeing and talking to some of the thousands of veterans and their families who visit each year from all over the Uk and overseas. There is no graffiti, no litter and only lovely people who visit and show the proper respect.
Let me turn to some of the negative points that other reviewers have mentioned and whinged about. Yes the NMA does not receive government funding so I am more than happy to pay my £3 for car parking all day which is a small price to pay, bearing in mind the experience I will have walking round this beautiful site, and that the food and drinks in the restaurant are much less that you would pay in a pub or restaurant and are better quality too..
Yes when we have very heavy and continuous rain there is sometimes some flooding on the low ground, but now that the hard surfaced road is all the way round the site it does not curtail your enjoyment of walking or taking the Land Train round the site.
Yes It is in the main a site dedicated to military sacrifice, but these are the gallant men and women who have paid with their lives ( and still paying) for everything we hold dear in this country and for every one who has made that sacrifice there are hundreds of thousands more who have been grievously wounded and the British Legion who run the NMA are always there to support our armed forces.
All in all a wonderful site and not to be missed.
Every time I visit there always seems to be another new monument or garden that has been opened or upgraded and the site is now maturing in such a beautiful a way that no-one could ever imagined when it was first opened.The Armed Forces Memorial opened by HM The Queen is a stunning example of architecture, poignant, yet uplifting and should always be included in your tour together with a visit to the chapel where a service of remembrance is held each day at 11am.
The volunteers on the site are always knowledgeable, always welcoming and are great ambassadors for the NMA.
My greatest pleasure is seeing and talking to some of the thousands of veterans and their families who visit each year from all over the Uk and overseas. There is no graffiti, no litter and only lovely people who visit and show the proper respect.
Let me turn to some of the negative points that other reviewers have mentioned and whinged about. Yes the NMA does not receive government funding so I am more than happy to pay my £3 for car parking all day which is a small price to pay, bearing in mind the experience I will have walking round this beautiful site, and that the food and drinks in the restaurant are much less that you would pay in a pub or restaurant and are better quality too..
Yes when we have very heavy and continuous rain there is sometimes some flooding on the low ground, but now that the hard surfaced road is all the way round the site it does not curtail your enjoyment of walking or taking the Land Train round the site.
Yes It is in the main a site dedicated to military sacrifice, but these are the gallant men and women who have paid with their lives ( and still paying) for everything we hold dear in this country and for every one who has made that sacrifice there are hundreds of thousands more who have been grievously wounded and the British Legion who run the NMA are always there to support our armed forces.
All in all a wonderful site and not to be missed.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In June 2019, tartnjohn said about National Memorial Arboretum
My second visit to the Arboretum and every bit as serene as before despite a number of more commercial developments.
First time round, we visited the 'permanent marquee' that was serving as the cafeteria/restaurant. This time it is within the main reception building and is every bit as good as before. Something about it screamed private in-house catering. So many organisations outsource this aspect of their business to the biggies and service, quality and standards plummet - not to mention prices going up, up and up.. Here the staff are smart, clean, happy and really provide a brilliant service - as for the quality of food? Top of the house. Their Cottage pie was piping hot, served with quality vegetables and the meat/potato topping was delicious. I may be wrong but pretty certain I am not. Great too, that High St coffee chains are noticeable by their absence - a real bonus.
All the staff on site (most if not all are volunteers) are knowledgeable, friendly and given the look and feel of the grounds, the memorials are all thought provoking and really do the organisations justice.
A couple of minor points which I heard a number of visitors commenting on.
The tour train, whilst mentioned as hop off is just that. At £6 ph and attracting many elderly who may not be too mobile, it really should provide a hop ON and off service. Cannot be an impossible thing to manage and would be massively appreciated by many.
Not too happy about the ticketing system if you purchase at the train. Surely handing over fairly significant cash, receiving a non auditable ticket and seeing it taken back by the driver is a fraud risk of the first degree. Whilst I am not in any way casting suspicion on the individuals on the day we were there, I am sure no accountant or security professional would recognise this as a secure way to protect cash.
Having travelled there by coach, when we went outside to wait, no seating was available where the bus stopped - perhaps some seating alongside the building would be a nice thing to have - especially for the elderly.
Noticeable too, that things which were 'free' when we first visited (guided tours etc.), seem now to attract a charge and although not a lot, it soon adds up.
First time round, we visited the 'permanent marquee' that was serving as the cafeteria/restaurant. This time it is within the main reception building and is every bit as good as before. Something about it screamed private in-house catering. So many organisations outsource this aspect of their business to the biggies and service, quality and standards plummet - not to mention prices going up, up and up.. Here the staff are smart, clean, happy and really provide a brilliant service - as for the quality of food? Top of the house. Their Cottage pie was piping hot, served with quality vegetables and the meat/potato topping was delicious. I may be wrong but pretty certain I am not. Great too, that High St coffee chains are noticeable by their absence - a real bonus.
All the staff on site (most if not all are volunteers) are knowledgeable, friendly and given the look and feel of the grounds, the memorials are all thought provoking and really do the organisations justice.
A couple of minor points which I heard a number of visitors commenting on.
The tour train, whilst mentioned as hop off is just that. At £6 ph and attracting many elderly who may not be too mobile, it really should provide a hop ON and off service. Cannot be an impossible thing to manage and would be massively appreciated by many.
Not too happy about the ticketing system if you purchase at the train. Surely handing over fairly significant cash, receiving a non auditable ticket and seeing it taken back by the driver is a fraud risk of the first degree. Whilst I am not in any way casting suspicion on the individuals on the day we were there, I am sure no accountant or security professional would recognise this as a secure way to protect cash.
Having travelled there by coach, when we went outside to wait, no seating was available where the bus stopped - perhaps some seating alongside the building would be a nice thing to have - especially for the elderly.
Noticeable too, that things which were 'free' when we first visited (guided tours etc.), seem now to attract a charge and although not a lot, it soon adds up.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2014, britkit said about National Memorial Arboretum
You really must get here and if you do, make sure that you take a whole day over the visit, making sure your cameras have plentiful batteries and storage space - you will need it!
I arrived at just after 10am which I deemed to be about the perfect time. It allowed me the chance of a coffee and some breakfast in the onsite restaurant, before making my way to the onsite 'Chapel of Peace and Reconciliation' in which is held a Service of Remembrance every day of the year. Following on from the Service (which is not mandatory) is a very interesting 'Welcome Talk' giving the history of the site.
If you are of limited mobility I recommend either booking ahead one of the 'golf buggy' guided tours (sorry do not know the price), or alternatively paying £5 for a ride on the 'Land Train', which goes around most of the site and on which you will hear a pre-recorded commentary as you go past some of the memorials.
If you think this place is all about military remembrance - think again, it is not.
Whilst the vast majority of the memorials are dedicated to members of the three armed forces (I am ex-Army myself) and there is the impressive 'Armed Forces Memorial' in the centre of the site, there are many many more memorials dedicated by charities and civilian organisations, such as The Fire and Rescue Services, and avenue of trees called 'The Beat' dedicated to the Police Services and other charity based memorials such as the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society.
For me the point of the visit was to visit the Armed Forces Memorial, as well as a number of regimental/corps memorials that I was interested in.
However I urge you not to miss the Far East Prisoner of War (FEPOW) Exhibition and Memorials - for me, the most moving part of the site. Please go into the exhibition but be warned, it 'pulls no punches' about the treatment of the FEPOW and the natives of the islands the Japanese invaded. However I thoroughly recommend it and defy you to come away from it unmoved.
Entry to the Arboretum is free, but a charge of £3 for all day parking is levied.
The Land Train costs £5 for over an hour's ride.
A 200 page colour photographed Guidebook will cost you £6 and is well worth it.
The visit may cost you no more than the parking charge, but all money raised in the restaurant and gift shop goes straight back into the running of the NMA, no profit is taken nor made.
The vast majority of the site is accessible by all, both able bodied, wheelchair users and visually/hearing impaired visitors. I would check with the plethora of volunteers for wheelchair accessible routes to the Armed Forces Memorial, as this is set on a hill up a flight of steps in the centre of the site.
Please - go!
I arrived at just after 10am which I deemed to be about the perfect time. It allowed me the chance of a coffee and some breakfast in the onsite restaurant, before making my way to the onsite 'Chapel of Peace and Reconciliation' in which is held a Service of Remembrance every day of the year. Following on from the Service (which is not mandatory) is a very interesting 'Welcome Talk' giving the history of the site.
If you are of limited mobility I recommend either booking ahead one of the 'golf buggy' guided tours (sorry do not know the price), or alternatively paying £5 for a ride on the 'Land Train', which goes around most of the site and on which you will hear a pre-recorded commentary as you go past some of the memorials.
If you think this place is all about military remembrance - think again, it is not.
Whilst the vast majority of the memorials are dedicated to members of the three armed forces (I am ex-Army myself) and there is the impressive 'Armed Forces Memorial' in the centre of the site, there are many many more memorials dedicated by charities and civilian organisations, such as The Fire and Rescue Services, and avenue of trees called 'The Beat' dedicated to the Police Services and other charity based memorials such as the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society.
For me the point of the visit was to visit the Armed Forces Memorial, as well as a number of regimental/corps memorials that I was interested in.
However I urge you not to miss the Far East Prisoner of War (FEPOW) Exhibition and Memorials - for me, the most moving part of the site. Please go into the exhibition but be warned, it 'pulls no punches' about the treatment of the FEPOW and the natives of the islands the Japanese invaded. However I thoroughly recommend it and defy you to come away from it unmoved.
Entry to the Arboretum is free, but a charge of £3 for all day parking is levied.
The Land Train costs £5 for over an hour's ride.
A 200 page colour photographed Guidebook will cost you £6 and is well worth it.
The visit may cost you no more than the parking charge, but all money raised in the restaurant and gift shop goes straight back into the running of the NMA, no profit is taken nor made.
The vast majority of the site is accessible by all, both able bodied, wheelchair users and visually/hearing impaired visitors. I would check with the plethora of volunteers for wheelchair accessible routes to the Armed Forces Memorial, as this is set on a hill up a flight of steps in the centre of the site.
Please - go!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In April 2015, Hooligan-59 said about National Memorial Arboretum
Before going to the NMA, we looked at the reviews on tripadvisor, especially those who rated it poor! (We like to see both ends of the spectrum!).
I can only say that those who considered it 'tacky' must have a very different view of 'tacky' to me! Yes, each organisation does have its own memorial garden, each one different. The inclusion of a Police lamp in the memorial garden was in memory of the youngest policewoman to be killed in the line of duty - not 'tacky' at all. The Rail Industry Memorial is, quite fittingly, a train.
The diversity of memorials is part of the attraction of the arboretum. I was especially moved by the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Charity (SANDS) garden, with its memorial of a sleeping baby, and all the named pebbles that had been left by parents. Also by the 'Shot at Dawn' memorial for those who were shot as 'deserters'. The main memorial is quite spectacular, and it makes one stop and think of the futility of war.
The trees are still immature, but in time they will be spectacular. A previous reviewer commented on the number of trees that had been removed. (This may have been because they were diseased?). The chippings were obviously left as a mulch - there didn't seem an excessive amount! All the gardens were well looked after, and we did not feel it was cramped at all.
We didn't use the landtrain or buggy, choosing to enjoy the walk. Some areas were a little soggy underfoot, but that is probably due to the previous use of the land.
We liked the walk by the river and saw sand martins and an egret, an added bonus.
There have been comments about the car parking charge and the suggested donation, both of which seem reasonable for something that receives no real funding. All free museums/galleries/cathedrals suggest a donation, so this is not unusual. £3 to park your car for a whole day isn't excessive either. Where do the complainers think the money comes from to fund the arboretum?If you go to somewhere like Kew Gardens and park in their car park, you pay to park and to go into the gardens!
The restaurant wasn't too overpriced, but service was very slow. There was a long queue to order sandwiches, which were being made to order, but then they didn't remember who had ordered what! Ready made sandwiches would have been a better idea.
The shop had an interesting collection of items, some reasonably priced.
There have been comments about the arboretum being like a 'theme park' or 'Disneyland' because of the land-train. I had expected some garish, seaside 'dotto' train, but no, it was a very simple, plain coloured land-train that was not in the least theme-parkish.
We will return in the future to see how it has developed over time, and to see any added memorials. It is worth a visit, honestly!
I can only say that those who considered it 'tacky' must have a very different view of 'tacky' to me! Yes, each organisation does have its own memorial garden, each one different. The inclusion of a Police lamp in the memorial garden was in memory of the youngest policewoman to be killed in the line of duty - not 'tacky' at all. The Rail Industry Memorial is, quite fittingly, a train.
The diversity of memorials is part of the attraction of the arboretum. I was especially moved by the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Charity (SANDS) garden, with its memorial of a sleeping baby, and all the named pebbles that had been left by parents. Also by the 'Shot at Dawn' memorial for those who were shot as 'deserters'. The main memorial is quite spectacular, and it makes one stop and think of the futility of war.
The trees are still immature, but in time they will be spectacular. A previous reviewer commented on the number of trees that had been removed. (This may have been because they were diseased?). The chippings were obviously left as a mulch - there didn't seem an excessive amount! All the gardens were well looked after, and we did not feel it was cramped at all.
We didn't use the landtrain or buggy, choosing to enjoy the walk. Some areas were a little soggy underfoot, but that is probably due to the previous use of the land.
We liked the walk by the river and saw sand martins and an egret, an added bonus.
There have been comments about the car parking charge and the suggested donation, both of which seem reasonable for something that receives no real funding. All free museums/galleries/cathedrals suggest a donation, so this is not unusual. £3 to park your car for a whole day isn't excessive either. Where do the complainers think the money comes from to fund the arboretum?If you go to somewhere like Kew Gardens and park in their car park, you pay to park and to go into the gardens!
The restaurant wasn't too overpriced, but service was very slow. There was a long queue to order sandwiches, which were being made to order, but then they didn't remember who had ordered what! Ready made sandwiches would have been a better idea.
The shop had an interesting collection of items, some reasonably priced.
There have been comments about the arboretum being like a 'theme park' or 'Disneyland' because of the land-train. I had expected some garish, seaside 'dotto' train, but no, it was a very simple, plain coloured land-train that was not in the least theme-parkish.
We will return in the future to see how it has developed over time, and to see any added memorials. It is worth a visit, honestly!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2018, YunziesTravels said about National Memorial Arboretum
At the going down of the sun, we will remember them.
As the final rays of light receded from a decommissioned Bofors gun, the scene at the National Memorial Arboretum all but spelt out the Ode of Remembrance.
A serene and contemplative centre of remembrance spread across 150 acres, the Arboretum is both a fixed memorial and a work-in-progress, reflecting the ongoing involvement of British forces personnel who continue to serve across the world.
Spread across 150 acres, the memorials lie within a hushed wooded landscape behind a visitors’ centre with a café, restaurant and Heroes’ Square.
It was my first visit, through I had been given an insight into the ingenuous, ever-changing nature of the memorials with a preview of leading aviation artist David Bent’s exhibition marking 100 years of the RAF, which ran between March and July 2018. David and partner Carole had hosted me at their studio in Swindon to look through the striking, geometric designs ahead of the Tribute 100 display. Visiting for the annual summer prom, we had a chance to stroll among the memorials, including the decommissioned Bofors anti-aircraft gun honouring the Maritime Regiment and Royal Navy Gunners. It’s one of more than 300 memorials that give dignified but powerful form to the past sacrifices which have taken place on a colossal scale.
The last rays of sunshine were also falling on the simmering glass memorial for the Royal Navy and associated services as walked around the grounds.
Made of 13 coloured glass panels to the side of a bowed stone figure, it cast shadows that appeared like tall, Trafalgar-era war ships sailing side-by-side.
At the heart of the site is the elevated Armed Forces Memorial, where more than 16,000 names of the fallen are inscribed on the structure’s stone walls.
Hulking bronze statues give muscular presence to their toils.
Blank panels, to be updated yearly, are one of the most sobering aspects of this quietly imposing tribute overlooking the surrounding countryside.
Below us, the Royal Anglican Regiment band was setting up on stage, ahead of a night of music with a strong World War One centenary theme. It was a reminder that the songs would once have been a light in dark hours for the regiments, comrades and loved ones remembered in the grounds.
As the final rays of light receded from a decommissioned Bofors gun, the scene at the National Memorial Arboretum all but spelt out the Ode of Remembrance.
A serene and contemplative centre of remembrance spread across 150 acres, the Arboretum is both a fixed memorial and a work-in-progress, reflecting the ongoing involvement of British forces personnel who continue to serve across the world.
Spread across 150 acres, the memorials lie within a hushed wooded landscape behind a visitors’ centre with a café, restaurant and Heroes’ Square.
It was my first visit, through I had been given an insight into the ingenuous, ever-changing nature of the memorials with a preview of leading aviation artist David Bent’s exhibition marking 100 years of the RAF, which ran between March and July 2018. David and partner Carole had hosted me at their studio in Swindon to look through the striking, geometric designs ahead of the Tribute 100 display. Visiting for the annual summer prom, we had a chance to stroll among the memorials, including the decommissioned Bofors anti-aircraft gun honouring the Maritime Regiment and Royal Navy Gunners. It’s one of more than 300 memorials that give dignified but powerful form to the past sacrifices which have taken place on a colossal scale.
The last rays of sunshine were also falling on the simmering glass memorial for the Royal Navy and associated services as walked around the grounds.
Made of 13 coloured glass panels to the side of a bowed stone figure, it cast shadows that appeared like tall, Trafalgar-era war ships sailing side-by-side.
At the heart of the site is the elevated Armed Forces Memorial, where more than 16,000 names of the fallen are inscribed on the structure’s stone walls.
Hulking bronze statues give muscular presence to their toils.
Blank panels, to be updated yearly, are one of the most sobering aspects of this quietly imposing tribute overlooking the surrounding countryside.
Below us, the Royal Anglican Regiment band was setting up on stage, ahead of a night of music with a strong World War One centenary theme. It was a reminder that the songs would once have been a light in dark hours for the regiments, comrades and loved ones remembered in the grounds.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2018, John W said about National Memorial Arboretum
My wife and I spent over half a day here and came away saddened by the futility of war but impressed and grateful to the countless people of so many nations who had made the ultimate sacrifice in recent war zones.. I had already visited the Arboretum some six years earlier and was struck by the many changes, improvements and additions to this large area that occupies former gravel pits.
Quite well signposted nowadays and with plenty of parking, there seems to be a 'standard' expected parking charge of £3...good value, and needed to help pay for the daily £3,000 upkeep of the Arboretum.
The site covers some 30 hectares and contains around 30,000 trees - many of which looked thirsty after the unrelenting July sunshine and drought. Only the 'lollipop' trees in the central memorial area seem to be watered, and some of the younger trees had clearly given up the struggle to survive. Very sad for an arboretum.
Staff were friendly and welcoming, as were the many volunteers. The shop contained a good selection of maps (£3), leaflets and memorabilia, the canteen/ restaurant was busy and understaffed at the tills and food was in surprisingly short supply prior to the evening concert. The café across the central square was better organised and served good coffee but rather expensive cakes & bottled drinks. There were outside seats and tables.
There is so much to see on this ever-expanding site: we took the land train tour that stuck to the well maintained road paths, lasted around 45 minutes and gave an interesting commentary en route. Strangely there were two places where passengers could get off but were then not allowed back on. The train was well organised and the staff helpful.
After our train trip we explored some far flung sites, following the wooden signpost directions. We regretted not having bought a map as we wandered along the banks of the boundary river, hoping to see some wildlife but even the birds were probably sheltering from the fierce sun. A pretty area that contrasted with the poignant exhibitions nearby.
We enjoyed a picnic lunch and, later that evening, the outdoor concert of patriotic music given by a military band.
A memorable visit to an impressive National Memorial.
Quite well signposted nowadays and with plenty of parking, there seems to be a 'standard' expected parking charge of £3...good value, and needed to help pay for the daily £3,000 upkeep of the Arboretum.
The site covers some 30 hectares and contains around 30,000 trees - many of which looked thirsty after the unrelenting July sunshine and drought. Only the 'lollipop' trees in the central memorial area seem to be watered, and some of the younger trees had clearly given up the struggle to survive. Very sad for an arboretum.
Staff were friendly and welcoming, as were the many volunteers. The shop contained a good selection of maps (£3), leaflets and memorabilia, the canteen/ restaurant was busy and understaffed at the tills and food was in surprisingly short supply prior to the evening concert. The café across the central square was better organised and served good coffee but rather expensive cakes & bottled drinks. There were outside seats and tables.
There is so much to see on this ever-expanding site: we took the land train tour that stuck to the well maintained road paths, lasted around 45 minutes and gave an interesting commentary en route. Strangely there were two places where passengers could get off but were then not allowed back on. The train was well organised and the staff helpful.
After our train trip we explored some far flung sites, following the wooden signpost directions. We regretted not having bought a map as we wandered along the banks of the boundary river, hoping to see some wildlife but even the birds were probably sheltering from the fierce sun. A pretty area that contrasted with the poignant exhibitions nearby.
We enjoyed a picnic lunch and, later that evening, the outdoor concert of patriotic music given by a military band.
A memorable visit to an impressive National Memorial.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In July 2016, Paul R said about The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum
As a published poet, writer and artist, Lichfield City with its three spired medieval sandstone Cathedral remains the hub of this Gothic ecclesiastical town, despite
attempts, in March 1643 to destroy it during the English Civil War in 1643.
Nearby, in the heart of Lichfield sits 'The Samuel Johnson Museum’ located on the corner of Market Square, amidst the quintessential Olde Worlde town, this small,
unique museum welcomes visitors from different parts of the world to share its sense of pride and occasion.
I decided to review The Samuel Johnson Museum, because I was encouraged at the behest of my daughter and 8 year old granddaughter who were researching a
school project about the man who compiled the first publication of the English Dictionary.
I could not contain my enthusiasm, Granddad’s do indeed have a place in the order of things. I explained that a visit to The Samuel Johnson Museum was essential if
they wanted to learn more about this influential figure.
They learned that Samuel Johnson was a modest man with considerable literary talents who, and, besides being the author of the First English Dictionary, he had also
written a variety of literary works including His "Rambler" and "Idler" essays that reflected a deep interest in life, especially the way in which men and women should
behave towards each other. As a critic and a scholar, his work on Shakespeare and other writers has contributed to our understanding of their works and their lives.
It is encouraging to listen to young people and older folk alike, sharing conversation about a wordsmith, famed for creating an open literary gateway, and a
ladder to climb on the shoulders of a secular saint who’s richness of word acted as a literary facilitator for others to claim their fortunes, whilst he lived modestly,
writing poetry, philosophical reflections, light hearted banter and parody, sometimes amidst challenging periods of depression and sadness.
I whole heartedly recommend visitors to this homely museum that has the additional advantage of being gratis on entry.
Besides the museum, Lichfield offers many alternative places of historical interest, picnics to be taken alongside the tranquil lakes or a wide range of hostelries, restaurants, cafes, bistros, suitable for most pockets. Not forgetting the wonderful Garrick Theatre.
Ensure you have your camera lens at the ready to capture some of the wonderful sites around this special location.
I hope this review has been helpful to those of you seeking out places of interest and learning; maybe I’ll see you checking out the library at The Samuel Johnson
Museum?
Regards,
PR
attempts, in March 1643 to destroy it during the English Civil War in 1643.
Nearby, in the heart of Lichfield sits 'The Samuel Johnson Museum’ located on the corner of Market Square, amidst the quintessential Olde Worlde town, this small,
unique museum welcomes visitors from different parts of the world to share its sense of pride and occasion.
I decided to review The Samuel Johnson Museum, because I was encouraged at the behest of my daughter and 8 year old granddaughter who were researching a
school project about the man who compiled the first publication of the English Dictionary.
I could not contain my enthusiasm, Granddad’s do indeed have a place in the order of things. I explained that a visit to The Samuel Johnson Museum was essential if
they wanted to learn more about this influential figure.
They learned that Samuel Johnson was a modest man with considerable literary talents who, and, besides being the author of the First English Dictionary, he had also
written a variety of literary works including His "Rambler" and "Idler" essays that reflected a deep interest in life, especially the way in which men and women should
behave towards each other. As a critic and a scholar, his work on Shakespeare and other writers has contributed to our understanding of their works and their lives.
It is encouraging to listen to young people and older folk alike, sharing conversation about a wordsmith, famed for creating an open literary gateway, and a
ladder to climb on the shoulders of a secular saint who’s richness of word acted as a literary facilitator for others to claim their fortunes, whilst he lived modestly,
writing poetry, philosophical reflections, light hearted banter and parody, sometimes amidst challenging periods of depression and sadness.
I whole heartedly recommend visitors to this homely museum that has the additional advantage of being gratis on entry.
Besides the museum, Lichfield offers many alternative places of historical interest, picnics to be taken alongside the tranquil lakes or a wide range of hostelries, restaurants, cafes, bistros, suitable for most pockets. Not forgetting the wonderful Garrick Theatre.
Ensure you have your camera lens at the ready to capture some of the wonderful sites around this special location.
I hope this review has been helpful to those of you seeking out places of interest and learning; maybe I’ll see you checking out the library at The Samuel Johnson
Museum?
Regards,
PR
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2014, Wasessa said about National Memorial Arboretum
Not sure where to begin! We visited on 7th August and found this to be a really moving and thought provoking experience. The NMA doesn't only remember the forces, but other organisations are also represented. We arrived early so booked onto the narrated land train at 10.00am, cost £4 p.p. and well worth it. We hadn't had breakfast but they didn't mind us grabbing a muffin and takeaway coffee and eating whilst on the train. The journey took 1hr 15mins and provided a good overview of the site, giving just the right amount of information and enabled us to decide which memorials we wished to visit in particular.
The 10.00am land train gets you back in time for the Act of Remembrance at 10.50am in the Millennium Chapel. This was their busiest day so far and the Chapel was packed with extra seating provided outside with speakers. There is a loop system for the hard of hearing. This was a lovely service with a 2 minute silence, followed by a half hour talk by one of the Guides explaining the purpose and history of the site.
There are also Buggy Tours and Guided Walks available.
After this we ventured into the Gift Shop and Arbour Restaurant. The Gift Shop is well stocked with interesting products for all ages and price ranges. No tat here! The Restaurant was very pleasant and also had a good range of food and drink at reasonable prices.
The toilet facilites were kept very clean.
All staff/volunteers that we encountered were extremely friendly, helpful and knowledgeable.
There are so many memorials but the ones that stuck in our minds were "Shot at Dawn", the Burma and Sumatra Railways, the Royal Navy glass monument and obviously the centre piece, Armed Forces Memorial. Unfortunately we didn't have enough time to cover every memorial but that can easily be rectified with a 2nd visit!
One thing I would like to say is that this site is advertised as "Free Admission" and it is. It costs almost £4000 a day to provide free entry. To those people who whinge about having to pay a £3 parking fee or £4 for a land train ticket I think you should visit the memorial that says it all: "Freedom is not free". When human beings have given their lives for this Nation and worthy organisations I fail to see how anyone can object to £3 and/or £4 - shame on you!
I can honestly say I have never been to such a well thought out, peaceful, emotional, beautiful and serene place, especially along the river walk where they have recently witnessed the return of otters amongst the other wildlife.
We had an amazing experience here and will certainly return. The NMA should be proud of what they have achieved on this site so far, and we look forward to seeing the developments as the years go by.
The 10.00am land train gets you back in time for the Act of Remembrance at 10.50am in the Millennium Chapel. This was their busiest day so far and the Chapel was packed with extra seating provided outside with speakers. There is a loop system for the hard of hearing. This was a lovely service with a 2 minute silence, followed by a half hour talk by one of the Guides explaining the purpose and history of the site.
There are also Buggy Tours and Guided Walks available.
After this we ventured into the Gift Shop and Arbour Restaurant. The Gift Shop is well stocked with interesting products for all ages and price ranges. No tat here! The Restaurant was very pleasant and also had a good range of food and drink at reasonable prices.
The toilet facilites were kept very clean.
All staff/volunteers that we encountered were extremely friendly, helpful and knowledgeable.
There are so many memorials but the ones that stuck in our minds were "Shot at Dawn", the Burma and Sumatra Railways, the Royal Navy glass monument and obviously the centre piece, Armed Forces Memorial. Unfortunately we didn't have enough time to cover every memorial but that can easily be rectified with a 2nd visit!
One thing I would like to say is that this site is advertised as "Free Admission" and it is. It costs almost £4000 a day to provide free entry. To those people who whinge about having to pay a £3 parking fee or £4 for a land train ticket I think you should visit the memorial that says it all: "Freedom is not free". When human beings have given their lives for this Nation and worthy organisations I fail to see how anyone can object to £3 and/or £4 - shame on you!
I can honestly say I have never been to such a well thought out, peaceful, emotional, beautiful and serene place, especially along the river walk where they have recently witnessed the return of otters amongst the other wildlife.
We had an amazing experience here and will certainly return. The NMA should be proud of what they have achieved on this site so far, and we look forward to seeing the developments as the years go by.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In March 2014, LittleEmsy said about National Memorial Arboretum
Remembrance has always been important to me and I have wanted to visit the National Arboretum for a while. I finally got the opportunity earlier this month when I visited with my partner on a wet, windy Sunday afternoon.
I checked out the website first (www.thenma.org.uk) and was glad I did because it contains a lot of useful information including the fact that, while admission is free, parking on site is pay and display (£3). The machines only take coins so make sure you have some with you – the money earned goes to support the Arboretum. We were also able to download a voucher from the site for a discount on lunch (offer now closed).
Access to the site is via the visitor centre, although people using mobility scooters should note that (for reasons that are unclear) they won’t be able to take their scooters inside. Manual wheelchairs are available to borrow, although if you are travelling alone and are unable to propel yourself along, I’m not sure what you are supposed to do.
That aside, inside the centre you are greeted by friendly staff who give you an overview of what there is to see plus a site map – useful as the site is large and there are many different memorials. We decided to have lunch in the restaurant before heading off outside – a good decision as, being a Sunday lunchtime, the place was filling up and there weren’t many free tables.
The restaurant offered a good choice of food, from snacks to cooked meals, and we opted for the roast turkey lunch. Without our discount voucher this would have cost us £7.50 each which seemed like decent value to me. Helpings were generous and the food tasted very good. We were too full to have puddings.
Outside, there are 150 acres of landscaped walkways, gardens and memorials to explore. Access is mainly via level paths, although to reach the centrepiece Armed Forces memorial you will need to climb a set of steps or follow a gently sloping pathway. The site is quite exposed and, although there are benches all the way round, there aren’t many shelters, so take a brolly if you’re visiting on a showery day.
There are many memorials to see, all different, all impressive in their own way. We found the Shot at Dawn memorial particularly moving as it commemorates those men who were shot for ‘cowardice’ (and recently pardoned) during the first world war. Many were teenagers when they died. Also impressive was the Parachute Regiment memorial, with its clever parachutist sculpture.
I would suggest you given yourself half a day to do the Arboretum justice and to give yourself time to reflect. We only managed two hours, including lunch, due to the wet and windy weather conditions and felt we needed to come back on a warmer day to take it all in properly. Also, it would be great to see the gardens in full bloom – when we visited the trees and plants were only just coming into bud. I have a feeling that they will look very beautiful in summer.
The National Arboretum is maturing and evolving and, having got off to what seems to be a very good start, I think it can only get better.
In my view this is an important place because it forces you to think about the cost of human conflict. It’s also a beautiful, peaceful place, somewhere in this busy, troubled world of ours to stop, stand and stare.
I checked out the website first (www.thenma.org.uk) and was glad I did because it contains a lot of useful information including the fact that, while admission is free, parking on site is pay and display (£3). The machines only take coins so make sure you have some with you – the money earned goes to support the Arboretum. We were also able to download a voucher from the site for a discount on lunch (offer now closed).
Access to the site is via the visitor centre, although people using mobility scooters should note that (for reasons that are unclear) they won’t be able to take their scooters inside. Manual wheelchairs are available to borrow, although if you are travelling alone and are unable to propel yourself along, I’m not sure what you are supposed to do.
That aside, inside the centre you are greeted by friendly staff who give you an overview of what there is to see plus a site map – useful as the site is large and there are many different memorials. We decided to have lunch in the restaurant before heading off outside – a good decision as, being a Sunday lunchtime, the place was filling up and there weren’t many free tables.
The restaurant offered a good choice of food, from snacks to cooked meals, and we opted for the roast turkey lunch. Without our discount voucher this would have cost us £7.50 each which seemed like decent value to me. Helpings were generous and the food tasted very good. We were too full to have puddings.
Outside, there are 150 acres of landscaped walkways, gardens and memorials to explore. Access is mainly via level paths, although to reach the centrepiece Armed Forces memorial you will need to climb a set of steps or follow a gently sloping pathway. The site is quite exposed and, although there are benches all the way round, there aren’t many shelters, so take a brolly if you’re visiting on a showery day.
There are many memorials to see, all different, all impressive in their own way. We found the Shot at Dawn memorial particularly moving as it commemorates those men who were shot for ‘cowardice’ (and recently pardoned) during the first world war. Many were teenagers when they died. Also impressive was the Parachute Regiment memorial, with its clever parachutist sculpture.
I would suggest you given yourself half a day to do the Arboretum justice and to give yourself time to reflect. We only managed two hours, including lunch, due to the wet and windy weather conditions and felt we needed to come back on a warmer day to take it all in properly. Also, it would be great to see the gardens in full bloom – when we visited the trees and plants were only just coming into bud. I have a feeling that they will look very beautiful in summer.
The National Arboretum is maturing and evolving and, having got off to what seems to be a very good start, I think it can only get better.
In my view this is an important place because it forces you to think about the cost of human conflict. It’s also a beautiful, peaceful place, somewhere in this busy, troubled world of ours to stop, stand and stare.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In May 2017, Andrew CoolUnc said about National Memorial Arboretum
The National Memorial Arboretum is now in its second decade.
The changes that it has undergone since its beginnings are remarkable.
When I originally visited in the early years, it was a somewhat damp, puddly sort of place that could be very muddy in parts.
It is now well established with good roads and paths and very good signposting. Clearly the place is a work in progress though. New memorials are being built and developed all the time and I fully expect the National Memorial Arboretum to grow substantially over the next ten years.
Currently it occupies more than 150 acres.
In many ways, now is probably the best time to visit while it is not too large to easily find your way around.
You can choose to have a very rewarding visit on both warm and cool days providing you dress sensibly. I would suggest that very wet days are best avoided though.
You probably need to allow at least three hours for your visit, although you could probably get a flavour of the place in as little as two hours. Most visitors will spend a lot more time seeing everything they want to and the time will fly by.
The National Memorial Arboretum is easy to find just off the A38 dual carriageway in Alrewas. It is well signed with prominent brown tourist signs.
There is a large parking area with good sized parking spaces. Parking is pay and display and just £3.00 to park all day. There are plenty of blue badge spaces close to the Remembrance Centre.
The Remembrance Centre is a well designed modern, contemporary and very welcoming space that includes very clean and smart toilet facilities, a spacious reasonably priced and comfortable restaurant, a coffee shop, a well stocked gift shop with unusual and imaginative souvenirs. Helpful and knowledgeable volunteers and guides are plentiful and will assist you with any information you require to help you plan your visit.
Regular events take place and full details are included on The National Memorial Arboretum website.
The National Memorial Arboretum has put a lot of thought in being accessible to all.
The memorials generally commemorate the military, but also commemorate public services and important charity and civilian institutions. They range from the grand and elaborate to the simple and quite humble. Lots are set in peaceful woodland or calm, reflective wildflower glades. It is impossible not to be moved by the power of most of the memorials.
I personally found the Burma Death Railway and the Sumatra Railway Memorials which feature track originally laid by POW's, especially moving. The Shot At Dawn Memorial on the eastern edge of the Arboretum, is guaranteed to make you think about the terrible fate of young, frightened soldiers shot in WWW1 for apparently being cowards.
If this is your first visit, then the frequent Land Train tour (Around 1 hour duration £5.00 adults/£2.00 children) is a really good way to find your way around the site and get an idea of what you want to see in more detail. There is a clear and very informative commentary.
If you choose to simply walk around the grounds then the roads and paths are all level and well maintained and there are plenty of benches to take a rest or simply to sit and contemplate our recent military history.
The National Memorial Arboretum is well worth a visit. It is a moving and interesting place to see. It is not all sad though and aspects are quite uplifting so you will definitely enjoy your visit.
Admission is free and all profits from the parking, shop, restaurant, coffee shop and other events go towards the upkeep of the arboretum.
The changes that it has undergone since its beginnings are remarkable.
When I originally visited in the early years, it was a somewhat damp, puddly sort of place that could be very muddy in parts.
It is now well established with good roads and paths and very good signposting. Clearly the place is a work in progress though. New memorials are being built and developed all the time and I fully expect the National Memorial Arboretum to grow substantially over the next ten years.
Currently it occupies more than 150 acres.
In many ways, now is probably the best time to visit while it is not too large to easily find your way around.
You can choose to have a very rewarding visit on both warm and cool days providing you dress sensibly. I would suggest that very wet days are best avoided though.
You probably need to allow at least three hours for your visit, although you could probably get a flavour of the place in as little as two hours. Most visitors will spend a lot more time seeing everything they want to and the time will fly by.
The National Memorial Arboretum is easy to find just off the A38 dual carriageway in Alrewas. It is well signed with prominent brown tourist signs.
There is a large parking area with good sized parking spaces. Parking is pay and display and just £3.00 to park all day. There are plenty of blue badge spaces close to the Remembrance Centre.
The Remembrance Centre is a well designed modern, contemporary and very welcoming space that includes very clean and smart toilet facilities, a spacious reasonably priced and comfortable restaurant, a coffee shop, a well stocked gift shop with unusual and imaginative souvenirs. Helpful and knowledgeable volunteers and guides are plentiful and will assist you with any information you require to help you plan your visit.
Regular events take place and full details are included on The National Memorial Arboretum website.
The National Memorial Arboretum has put a lot of thought in being accessible to all.
The memorials generally commemorate the military, but also commemorate public services and important charity and civilian institutions. They range from the grand and elaborate to the simple and quite humble. Lots are set in peaceful woodland or calm, reflective wildflower glades. It is impossible not to be moved by the power of most of the memorials.
I personally found the Burma Death Railway and the Sumatra Railway Memorials which feature track originally laid by POW's, especially moving. The Shot At Dawn Memorial on the eastern edge of the Arboretum, is guaranteed to make you think about the terrible fate of young, frightened soldiers shot in WWW1 for apparently being cowards.
If this is your first visit, then the frequent Land Train tour (Around 1 hour duration £5.00 adults/£2.00 children) is a really good way to find your way around the site and get an idea of what you want to see in more detail. There is a clear and very informative commentary.
If you choose to simply walk around the grounds then the roads and paths are all level and well maintained and there are plenty of benches to take a rest or simply to sit and contemplate our recent military history.
The National Memorial Arboretum is well worth a visit. It is a moving and interesting place to see. It is not all sad though and aspects are quite uplifting so you will definitely enjoy your visit.
Admission is free and all profits from the parking, shop, restaurant, coffee shop and other events go towards the upkeep of the arboretum.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk