Local Reviews
In August 2022, katherine dack said about National Memorial Arboretum
If you are in the area, and have an interest in the history of our country, I would recommend a visit to the national memorial arboretum in Staffordshire. Just make sure you are wearing suitable shoes for a walk. Large car parks, coffee shop, restaurant with the usual facilities. There are land trains which are well signposted and take a ride through the grounds allowing the opportunity to see the memorials belonging to so many organisations that I can not list them. Information boards are very informative and there are staff members who are happy to help with any questions. An amazing time had by all. We will not forget them.
Source: google.com
In December 2019, Trev said about National Memorial Arboretum
Every year we as family and friends pay a visit to the National Arboretum. It is a beautiful place to have a day out and for those of us whose family served this country in whatever capacity it is a reminder of the courage of the men and women involved. There is a lot to see as there are so many memorials. There is also a visitor's center, restaurant and shop. Unfortunately on this particular visit the weather had flooded some areas so we couldn't see all parts of the grounds. One of our group was in a wheelchair but no problem as most of the grounds are wheelchair accessible. There is also a land train that you can board which takes you round the site. Well worth a visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In February 2016, MillerMad said about National Memorial Arboretum
We had been told a lot of good things about this place and decided to visit. We were not disappointed what an amazing and emotional place. It was very moving seeing all the artefacts from all the various conflicts and the areas of memorial to each conflict including different nationalities who served. Of particular interest is part of Burma railway and the history related to it. There is a train which takes you round for a small charge with very informative commentary. There is no admission charge just a car parking fee which is very reasonable. The gardens are beautiful and extremely well maintained. The restaurant has a good range and staff are helpful. All the staff around the area were helpful and informative.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In January 2019, Alistair Nottle said about National Memorial Arboretum
Surprisingly family friendly experience. We took our six year old and two year old for a visit and weren't sure whether it would be interesting enough for them. Fortunately the land train was exciting enough for them whilst allowing the adults the chance to see the 'grown up stuff'. There's also a couple of playgrounds to keep the kids happy. The restaurant was very nice and reasonable value, especially when the profits go to a good cause. We didn't visit the exhibition, but overheard people speaking highly of it. Overall a good family day out and we'll probably look to visit again when next in the area.
Source: google.com
In September 2013, UK_DuchessDevon said about National Memorial Arboretum
A wonderful place has been created for the nation to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
It was a moving experience and a lot of thought has gone into the planning and development of the site which is an ongoing process.
The charge for car park is only £3 which is excellent value as there is no charge to get in and it relies on donations to keep it going. The restaurant also ploughs it's profit back to the Arboretum running costs.
You will need several hours to walk around and see everything but there is a land train which is great for those not able to get around so easily. Comfortable walking footwear is a must.
A humbling experience.
It was a moving experience and a lot of thought has gone into the planning and development of the site which is an ongoing process.
The charge for car park is only £3 which is excellent value as there is no charge to get in and it relies on donations to keep it going. The restaurant also ploughs it's profit back to the Arboretum running costs.
You will need several hours to walk around and see everything but there is a land train which is great for those not able to get around so easily. Comfortable walking footwear is a must.
A humbling experience.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2019, Sue L said about National Memorial Arboretum
Visited on a hot sunny day (bring your hat if it's the same for you). Very welcoming place with staff on hand to guide you along. There is a buggy tour & a tram tour which is useful for an overview. There are so many monuments that you suddenly begin to understand just how big the effort of going to war is. All the monuments are beautifully made & kept. There are plenty of benches scattered around to sit & think about what it means for you. Very nice coffee shop & restaurant on site as well. We'll be going back to visit what we missed today. I'd recommend this for anyone, young or old - take your time & enjoy the beauty of it all.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In November 2012, Fruitgum1955 said about National Memorial Arboretum
Massive place , need sensible shoes as long walks and boggy underfoot . road train a little expensive £4.50 but good commentary and music ( you can get off but not able to rejoin the train needs rethinking) hire of buggies is available .
The mound has a separate golf buggy tho take those who can not climb the steps .( would work better if the train could radio the buggy as at present a matter of luck)
Excellent restaurant .
Parking £3.00 per car
Map. £3.00
Advertised as free entry in all £10.50 before I had seen any thing be prepared .
The mound has a separate golf buggy tho take those who can not climb the steps .( would work better if the train could radio the buggy as at present a matter of luck)
Excellent restaurant .
Parking £3.00 per car
Map. £3.00
Advertised as free entry in all £10.50 before I had seen any thing be prepared .
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In February 2013, Derek H said about National Memorial Arboretum
Set out so beautifully, so geometrically with plenty of space for reflection. We found this visit a most moving experience. With the many memorials given such prominence, many designed with such artistic care, and telling such heroic and historic stories that a visit here should be an essential for all of us who owe so much to thoes that are honoured here. Lovely day out in the summer but will need to wrap up warm if its windy. The breezes do tend to whip across the Trent valley! Restaurant and shop very nice but very busy. Good parking and easy to get to. Take the children as it will help them understand.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In June 2014, Derek_Lavill said about National Memorial Arboretum
Another visit to the National Arboretum, this time for a RAF memorial,but for a change in sunshine.
It may not be classed as an attraction but it should be a must for the thoughtful amongst us, whilst it has a substantial amount of memorials and sculptures each with a garden for each one. Many are for well known incidents but many are for little known happenings in our history. A must.....the gardens are acres and acres of lush grass,trees,memorials. A well appointed restaurant serving snacks and full meals in the grounds ...... Which is free to enter just pay for the parking...or a bus ......no pressure to buy anything and of course can take your own food and drink to consume on one of 100rds of benches.... Well worth going....
It may not be classed as an attraction but it should be a must for the thoughtful amongst us, whilst it has a substantial amount of memorials and sculptures each with a garden for each one. Many are for well known incidents but many are for little known happenings in our history. A must.....the gardens are acres and acres of lush grass,trees,memorials. A well appointed restaurant serving snacks and full meals in the grounds ...... Which is free to enter just pay for the parking...or a bus ......no pressure to buy anything and of course can take your own food and drink to consume on one of 100rds of benches.... Well worth going....
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2014, pazthetaz said about National Memorial Arboretum
One of the few free places to visit. Really very lovely setting for a fabulous way of remembering and honouring those who gave their lives for our freedom. The guide book is really worth it at just £6.50 as there is free entry for the whole day. They are still adding to the site and it will be expanding further. An absolute must if you have any interest in the wars and the services. There are guided tours and just so much to do. If you are not interested in the afore-mentioned then it is a large open space and allows a good walk to get some fresh air whilst exploring. Wonderful restaurant and gift shop with some very interesting poppy themed items.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk