Local Reviews
In October 2014, Sue D said about National Memorial Arboretum
Visited during half term, with boys (ages 12 & 11). Car park was £3, had no problem at all with paying as the Arboretum itself is free and costs have to be covered somehow.
Had a very full day - took the land-train round to start with so we had some idea of the layout of the site, then spent a (very moving) few hours wandering around looking at all the memorials - we were a little worried beforehand that the boys may be bored but they were not at all, they found the whole experience really interesting.
Lots of different memorials, the site was very well kept, well laid out and easy to navigate with the help of the map - we had to buy the map but as mentioned before, we didn't mind this as any profits go towards keeping this a free-to-enter site.
The restaurant had a good selection and was very busy. Toilets were clean. The gift shop was perhaps the only disappointment, as I'd been hoping to find some prints or perhaps a calendar with some images from around the site, but there was not much really - some poppy themed jewellery and ceramics, but most of the items weren't unique to the site, they were mass produced gift-shop staples (pencils, books, mugs, jams etc) identical to those you could find almost anywhere.
All in all a very interesting and thought provoking day, we spent several hours there and would happily go back again.
Had a very full day - took the land-train round to start with so we had some idea of the layout of the site, then spent a (very moving) few hours wandering around looking at all the memorials - we were a little worried beforehand that the boys may be bored but they were not at all, they found the whole experience really interesting.
Lots of different memorials, the site was very well kept, well laid out and easy to navigate with the help of the map - we had to buy the map but as mentioned before, we didn't mind this as any profits go towards keeping this a free-to-enter site.
The restaurant had a good selection and was very busy. Toilets were clean. The gift shop was perhaps the only disappointment, as I'd been hoping to find some prints or perhaps a calendar with some images from around the site, but there was not much really - some poppy themed jewellery and ceramics, but most of the items weren't unique to the site, they were mass produced gift-shop staples (pencils, books, mugs, jams etc) identical to those you could find almost anywhere.
All in all a very interesting and thought provoking day, we spent several hours there and would happily go back again.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In June 2018, Ric said about National Memorial Arboretum
What a fitting tribute to the men and women who have fallen in the service of this country.
Laid out in well manicured grounds are tributes to all branches of the armed services as well as other service groups such as the police and St. John’s ambulance and war time services with the Land Girls and Women's Timber Corps being among the many services honoured.
During our visit a commemoration of National Service was in progress and walking around the grounds with both military band music and a very good female singer rendering songs such as “we’ll meet again” and “white cliffs of Dover” along with the sight of hundreds of veterans, medals on display, added real poignancy to our visit.
The grounds are free to enter, although a donation is expected, there seems to be ample car parking at a reasonable £3, and the main building houses both a coffee shop and restaurant providing quite reasonable fare. Also in the main building are the reception, where you can book tours etc. an exhibition space and a souvenir shop.
Overall a very pleasant place to stroll around while reflecting on our country’s service personnel even if you have no direct connection with the persons remembered or with the forces. I personally enjoyed finding a memorial to my own very small branch in the Royal Naval area, as well as dedications to ships I had served on.
I must thank all the staff and volunteers for making this tribute so enjoyable.
Laid out in well manicured grounds are tributes to all branches of the armed services as well as other service groups such as the police and St. John’s ambulance and war time services with the Land Girls and Women's Timber Corps being among the many services honoured.
During our visit a commemoration of National Service was in progress and walking around the grounds with both military band music and a very good female singer rendering songs such as “we’ll meet again” and “white cliffs of Dover” along with the sight of hundreds of veterans, medals on display, added real poignancy to our visit.
The grounds are free to enter, although a donation is expected, there seems to be ample car parking at a reasonable £3, and the main building houses both a coffee shop and restaurant providing quite reasonable fare. Also in the main building are the reception, where you can book tours etc. an exhibition space and a souvenir shop.
Overall a very pleasant place to stroll around while reflecting on our country’s service personnel even if you have no direct connection with the persons remembered or with the forces. I personally enjoyed finding a memorial to my own very small branch in the Royal Naval area, as well as dedications to ships I had served on.
I must thank all the staff and volunteers for making this tribute so enjoyable.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In November 2018, CHERRY R said about National Memorial Arboretum
Having read the diverse reports commentating on the 100th Anniversary of Armistice Day,I should like to add my own Did the organizers of this event realize a much larger attendance figure would be the norm on such an historic occasion.
Did they not carry out a sound test at the Memorial the day before.and place more visual enhancements around the site of the Ceremony.
Who authorized a mobile burger van on a site of such dignity,this is not Glastonbury.
Why was the restaurant not more fully staffed,long queues meant hot food had cooled long before diners reached the cash machine.
My most significant complaint is the lack of organisation of the traffic/parking system.When we arrived at the Showground there was a queue of around 200 people for a shuttle bus.My brother in law,who has mobility problems,decided to walk as he did not wish to miss the Ceremony.After a few hundred yards,was unable to continue.We were stranded by the roadside as my husband had no chance of fetching our car,We were saved by a 'Good Samaritan' lady who turned her car around and offered him a lift.I accept that people had parked irresponsibly,and this was no fault of the Arboretum,but couldn't some other way to the venue have been made purely for the shuttle buses? I have awarded the Arboretum 5 stars because it is a unique place,the Field of Remembrance is a revelation to the Fallen,and I will return.Such a shame the unique occasion was not more helpful.
Did they not carry out a sound test at the Memorial the day before.and place more visual enhancements around the site of the Ceremony.
Who authorized a mobile burger van on a site of such dignity,this is not Glastonbury.
Why was the restaurant not more fully staffed,long queues meant hot food had cooled long before diners reached the cash machine.
My most significant complaint is the lack of organisation of the traffic/parking system.When we arrived at the Showground there was a queue of around 200 people for a shuttle bus.My brother in law,who has mobility problems,decided to walk as he did not wish to miss the Ceremony.After a few hundred yards,was unable to continue.We were stranded by the roadside as my husband had no chance of fetching our car,We were saved by a 'Good Samaritan' lady who turned her car around and offered him a lift.I accept that people had parked irresponsibly,and this was no fault of the Arboretum,but couldn't some other way to the venue have been made purely for the shuttle buses? I have awarded the Arboretum 5 stars because it is a unique place,the Field of Remembrance is a revelation to the Fallen,and I will return.Such a shame the unique occasion was not more helpful.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In April 2019, chocolina25 said about National Memorial Arboretum
I visited the National Memorial Arboretum for the first time on St George’s Day. I went alone as I just wanted to take it all in without distraction. Nothing prepares the first-time visitor for the enormity of the beautiful grounds and the number of individual memorials; it seems that no-one is forgotten.
I arrived early to make the most of my visit, and attended the talk by a very informative volunteer in the Memorial Chapel, preceded by the two minutes’ silence, which takes place every day at 11.00. There was enough time after the Chapel to board the train which takes you all around the grounds with a running commentary, very good value at £6 per head.
Entry to the NMA is free, parking is £3 and a donation of a minimum £5 is suggested – how can anyone begrudge it?
After the land train, I had a hearty bowl of soup in the restaurant then, armed with the Orientation Guide, I made my way on foot around the grounds. I managed to find the memorial to my Dad’s regiment, with the help of an informative volunteer. It really made my day. This was on the way to the Armed Forces Memorial which just dominates the skyline. It was so upsetting seeing the thousands of names carved into those stone walls (deaths since WWII); we should all be thankful.
Although it was busy and there were quite a few children about with the Easter holidays, calm and tranquillity was all around. I would certainly go back for a second visit and would recommend it to anyone of any age.
I arrived early to make the most of my visit, and attended the talk by a very informative volunteer in the Memorial Chapel, preceded by the two minutes’ silence, which takes place every day at 11.00. There was enough time after the Chapel to board the train which takes you all around the grounds with a running commentary, very good value at £6 per head.
Entry to the NMA is free, parking is £3 and a donation of a minimum £5 is suggested – how can anyone begrudge it?
After the land train, I had a hearty bowl of soup in the restaurant then, armed with the Orientation Guide, I made my way on foot around the grounds. I managed to find the memorial to my Dad’s regiment, with the help of an informative volunteer. It really made my day. This was on the way to the Armed Forces Memorial which just dominates the skyline. It was so upsetting seeing the thousands of names carved into those stone walls (deaths since WWII); we should all be thankful.
Although it was busy and there were quite a few children about with the Easter holidays, calm and tranquillity was all around. I would certainly go back for a second visit and would recommend it to anyone of any age.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In November 2019, MsChuckles22 said about National Memorial Arboretum
Visited here the week before local schools half term in October, so not overly busy. It's free to enter relying on donations, which we duly gave.
The day of our visit, was the launch of this year's Poppy Appeal and they had a wonderful exhibit that meant the autumn flowers projected on the floor turned into poppies when you walked through them - great fun for young and old alike.
We'd arrived at lunchtime so dined in the restaurant and had soup with fresh bread. Butternut squash and sweet potato for myself and Gran (83), leek and potato for Mister and daughter had a cheese sandwich. The soup was filling but we'd spotted some fresh scones so had them for dessert. All the food tasted homemade, delicious and was reasonably priced along with the hot drinks.
We only saw a fraction of the site during our 3 hour visit which beautifully landscaped and well maintained, so we will definitely revisit.
There is a children's play area but on this day, we followed the Stickman Trail with our 6 year old and we walked over a mile soaking up the peaceful atmosphere and different memorials including the spectacular Armed Forces memorial to the brave fallen and simpler ones to beloved civilians young and old.
A reminder that this a national place for remembrance not just on 11 November but everyday always...
The day of our visit, was the launch of this year's Poppy Appeal and they had a wonderful exhibit that meant the autumn flowers projected on the floor turned into poppies when you walked through them - great fun for young and old alike.
We'd arrived at lunchtime so dined in the restaurant and had soup with fresh bread. Butternut squash and sweet potato for myself and Gran (83), leek and potato for Mister and daughter had a cheese sandwich. The soup was filling but we'd spotted some fresh scones so had them for dessert. All the food tasted homemade, delicious and was reasonably priced along with the hot drinks.
We only saw a fraction of the site during our 3 hour visit which beautifully landscaped and well maintained, so we will definitely revisit.
There is a children's play area but on this day, we followed the Stickman Trail with our 6 year old and we walked over a mile soaking up the peaceful atmosphere and different memorials including the spectacular Armed Forces memorial to the brave fallen and simpler ones to beloved civilians young and old.
A reminder that this a national place for remembrance not just on 11 November but everyday always...
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In January 2020, Stuart McAusland said about National Memorial Arboretum
Well done, the NMA! This is a very special place. You should come here whatever your age or interests and you will seriously get a lot from it. Of course it is a place of reflection and therefore sombre to a degree in places, but it has masses of opportunity for enjoyment and smiles, and it is perfectly suitable for families. Also it is not simply a war memorial - many non-military causes are represented here. Nor is it a static mausoleum - it is alive and vibrant and all the stories you will encounter as you explore are fascinating.
There are indoor exhibitions for those who like that sort of traditional museum experience. There are outdoor paths and a land train if you want a tour. But the winner for me is to wander off the paths and see what I find.
Before I had kids I came here and it was fascinating and moving from an historical and reflective viewpoint, and a lovely place for an outside walk whatever the season. Now I have young kids (3 and 5) and we visited in August. They loved the free Stick Man trail and exploring the woods, spotting the memorials through the trees and looking for wildlife. The two children's play areas are well designed and not too near the main areas of peaceful reflection so they can play without feeling sacrilegious.
We spent 3 hours here and could have happily stayed longer after a refuel at the restaurant, but that can wait for next time. The food looked very tempting.
I have a personal connection to one of the causes being commemorated here, and this is definitely a suitable place for reflection. I feel a lot of pride to be part of a country that has dedicated such a place as this to remembrance.
There are indoor exhibitions for those who like that sort of traditional museum experience. There are outdoor paths and a land train if you want a tour. But the winner for me is to wander off the paths and see what I find.
Before I had kids I came here and it was fascinating and moving from an historical and reflective viewpoint, and a lovely place for an outside walk whatever the season. Now I have young kids (3 and 5) and we visited in August. They loved the free Stick Man trail and exploring the woods, spotting the memorials through the trees and looking for wildlife. The two children's play areas are well designed and not too near the main areas of peaceful reflection so they can play without feeling sacrilegious.
We spent 3 hours here and could have happily stayed longer after a refuel at the restaurant, but that can wait for next time. The food looked very tempting.
I have a personal connection to one of the causes being commemorated here, and this is definitely a suitable place for reflection. I feel a lot of pride to be part of a country that has dedicated such a place as this to remembrance.
Source: google.com
In September 2012, IPBushy said about National Memorial Arboretum
Been here a few times. It covers a large area and can't all be seen properly in one day so allow plenty of time and wear good walking shoes! If you are going for a particular memorial then ask the staff. They are mostly volunteers but are very knowledgeable and so willing to help it's refreshing! There are mobility aids to hire so you can get around even if disabled, but book in advance as they are very popular. Although entry is free, the car park costs £3 for the day, and maps and things cost, but every penny stays in the Arboretum so shouldn't be a problem. The refreshments are good, with a reasonable choice of meals and drinks in the restaurant as well as more from facilities outside the visitor centre, which, btw, is scheduled for a rebuild to accommodate the growing number of visitors.
It is an oasis of peace and quiet and although it can be argued that everyone should visit because of what it stands for militarily, it should be remembered that it is a National Memorial, not just a military one, so there are many civilian memorials as well. It is a very poignant place to be and can be a little disturbing, especially the Far East memorial, and, in its way, the large empty space on the Military Memorial awaiting the names of those yet to die in our name for our freedom!!
It's open every day except Christmas Day and there is an Act of Remembrance every day in the Millennium Chapel at 1100hrs incorporating Last Post, silence and Reveille. You certainly don't have to be religious to attend and appreciate this.
So, if you have half a mind to visit this lovely place change that to a determination, and go. You won't regret it.
It is an oasis of peace and quiet and although it can be argued that everyone should visit because of what it stands for militarily, it should be remembered that it is a National Memorial, not just a military one, so there are many civilian memorials as well. It is a very poignant place to be and can be a little disturbing, especially the Far East memorial, and, in its way, the large empty space on the Military Memorial awaiting the names of those yet to die in our name for our freedom!!
It's open every day except Christmas Day and there is an Act of Remembrance every day in the Millennium Chapel at 1100hrs incorporating Last Post, silence and Reveille. You certainly don't have to be religious to attend and appreciate this.
So, if you have half a mind to visit this lovely place change that to a determination, and go. You won't regret it.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2014, 777rio said about National Memorial Arboretum
Set in almost 2,500 acres it easily absorbs the number of daily visitors, the volume of visitors only being noted by the full car parks. Car parking is £3.00 which we were unaware of prior to the visit, a fair charge but we struggled for the change. The tranquillity of the park is truly absorbing, and is the same peacefulness found in the war memorials of France.
During the summer & other school holidays events are laid on for children at minimal cost, therefore it was disappointing to see such a poor uptake (maybe it was just the day we visited). A great idea intended to encourage families to visit the memorial. Our son (& Dad) loved the 'furries & critters' event which was sadly only attended by 6 other children. An excellent, educational event it was a shame it wasn't better attended. Children visiting at this time missed a treat.
The memorial in general seemed to be frequented by few families, which is disappointing as it is both educational & respectful that our children are imparted with the knowledge of sacrifice & dedication of those who have fallen in service. A guide advised they cater for school groups during term time but it should not just fall to schools to provide this type of education.
As you would expect many visitors are of a certain generation.
The restaurant is reasonably priced & the staff/volunteers very pleasant. It would seem huge investment is to be carried out over the next few years & we look forward to paying our respects again in the future.
Note - if you have a pram try to avoid parking in the overflow as it extremely difficult to push a pram on the unsurfaced ground.
During the summer & other school holidays events are laid on for children at minimal cost, therefore it was disappointing to see such a poor uptake (maybe it was just the day we visited). A great idea intended to encourage families to visit the memorial. Our son (& Dad) loved the 'furries & critters' event which was sadly only attended by 6 other children. An excellent, educational event it was a shame it wasn't better attended. Children visiting at this time missed a treat.
The memorial in general seemed to be frequented by few families, which is disappointing as it is both educational & respectful that our children are imparted with the knowledge of sacrifice & dedication of those who have fallen in service. A guide advised they cater for school groups during term time but it should not just fall to schools to provide this type of education.
As you would expect many visitors are of a certain generation.
The restaurant is reasonably priced & the staff/volunteers very pleasant. It would seem huge investment is to be carried out over the next few years & we look forward to paying our respects again in the future.
Note - if you have a pram try to avoid parking in the overflow as it extremely difficult to push a pram on the unsurfaced ground.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2017, anonymous1234231 said about National Memorial Arboretum
I visited the National Memorial Arboretum for the first time, not sure about what to expect or how long the visit would last. From the moment I arrived, all of the volunteers I spoke with were friendly and welcoming.
I started the day with a short talk and remembrance service in the Chapel at 11am, which set the tone for the rest of the visit and provided some background information about the origins of the NMA. I then booked onto a buggy tour, which lasted just under an hour. I chose this over the train as it was a more personal approach and there was the opportunity to ask questions. Our guide was very knowledgeable and passionate, ensuring that we got the most from the tour and he stopped at some memorials so these could be explored further. For £5 it was well worth it and, even better, the money goes directly back to the NMA.
After lunch in the restaurant I continued to explore the grounds on foot - the whole place is a wonderful tribute to those who have given the ultimate sacrifice and is respectfully done. The grounds are beautifully maintained and the care and attention to detail is second to none. The memorial is a place of reflection, but also a celebration of those who serve their country.
I spent about 4.5 hours in total at the site and I still didn't get to explore everything. I would recommend booking a tour (walking, land train or buggy) to begin with and then exploring memorials which are of particular interest.
There is no entrance fee for the NMA, they do ask for donations to help with running costs and to ensure that this place of significance is preserved for future generations. I would highly recommend to everyone!
I started the day with a short talk and remembrance service in the Chapel at 11am, which set the tone for the rest of the visit and provided some background information about the origins of the NMA. I then booked onto a buggy tour, which lasted just under an hour. I chose this over the train as it was a more personal approach and there was the opportunity to ask questions. Our guide was very knowledgeable and passionate, ensuring that we got the most from the tour and he stopped at some memorials so these could be explored further. For £5 it was well worth it and, even better, the money goes directly back to the NMA.
After lunch in the restaurant I continued to explore the grounds on foot - the whole place is a wonderful tribute to those who have given the ultimate sacrifice and is respectfully done. The grounds are beautifully maintained and the care and attention to detail is second to none. The memorial is a place of reflection, but also a celebration of those who serve their country.
I spent about 4.5 hours in total at the site and I still didn't get to explore everything. I would recommend booking a tour (walking, land train or buggy) to begin with and then exploring memorials which are of particular interest.
There is no entrance fee for the NMA, they do ask for donations to help with running costs and to ensure that this place of significance is preserved for future generations. I would highly recommend to everyone!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In October 2017, Janbear said about National Memorial Arboretum
My husband and I visited here on our way to Shrewsbury, our main reason being my husband was coming to a dedication service the following week and was taking another ( disabled ) veteran with him.
It was pouring with rain when we arrived so we had a look round inside, checking out the disabled facilities, which are the best I've ever seen ( I am disabled). We then took advantage of the self service restaurant, it was excellent we had a light meal which was Superb. Due to the weather my husband had a quick walk to where he would be going the following week. This done we left but returned 3 days later on our way home to have a good look round as the sun was out.
Parking is £3 and there are plenty of spaces both for disabled and non disabled. Entrance is free but you can pay for a tour on a land train which was £6 and takes approximately 45 minutes. We did not take the tour,as I had my scooter with me. Everywhere was accessible and we spent a good 2 hours looking round. The Wall with all the names of those that have Fallen plus the empty space for more names to be added was a poignant reminder of how senseless war is.
Again we ate in the self service restaurant, this time having a full lunch, the food was lovely and is not over priced.
As with all places there is the inevitable Gift Shop which had some lovely items.
Would we visit again? The answer to that is Yes.
My husband went back for the service and was quite annoyed that the Household Cavalry decided to have their reception afterwards at a local Hotel and not at the Arboretum, commenting that having had 2 lovely meals at the Arboretum he was not impressed with sandwiches and a sausage roll!!
It was pouring with rain when we arrived so we had a look round inside, checking out the disabled facilities, which are the best I've ever seen ( I am disabled). We then took advantage of the self service restaurant, it was excellent we had a light meal which was Superb. Due to the weather my husband had a quick walk to where he would be going the following week. This done we left but returned 3 days later on our way home to have a good look round as the sun was out.
Parking is £3 and there are plenty of spaces both for disabled and non disabled. Entrance is free but you can pay for a tour on a land train which was £6 and takes approximately 45 minutes. We did not take the tour,as I had my scooter with me. Everywhere was accessible and we spent a good 2 hours looking round. The Wall with all the names of those that have Fallen plus the empty space for more names to be added was a poignant reminder of how senseless war is.
Again we ate in the self service restaurant, this time having a full lunch, the food was lovely and is not over priced.
As with all places there is the inevitable Gift Shop which had some lovely items.
Would we visit again? The answer to that is Yes.
My husband went back for the service and was quite annoyed that the Household Cavalry decided to have their reception afterwards at a local Hotel and not at the Arboretum, commenting that having had 2 lovely meals at the Arboretum he was not impressed with sandwiches and a sausage roll!!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk