Local Reviews
In October 2024, Kimberley P said about National Memorial Arboretum
The arboretum is an absolutely wonderful place to visit , and it’s free to get in , car parking was £4 for the day . As I cannot walk for more than a few yards I was going to take my powered chair , my batteries were low , so we hired a scooter for the day , bargain at £10 for the day , the staff mainly volunteers were fantastic and sorted us out in minutes . They rely on donations and very good people as volunteers , most of whom are very knowledgeable about the site ! We did the longest walk which was a kilometre each way and the memorials were stunning all set among beautifully kept grounds and with part being alongside the river Trent . Many of the memorial’s were set among the trees , I couldn’t get to some but my partner could and some of those were heartbreaking with thousands of names not all armed forces but civilians as well , we listened to the shot at dawn memorial talk and it was heartbreaking to hear stories of young men who went to war with a false sense of heroism to break down with ptsd and not all of them were of age to fight some as young as 14 , were shot . This definitely brings into perspective the amount of folk , men women and children that died for this country and it’s freedoms .
The monument on the hill commemorating our armed services personnel lost since 1947 and updated yearly , apparently 2023 was the only year no names were up there . They also commemorate all allies , polish , Sikh , Canadian, anzacs and many others too numerous to mention but never forgotten , a haunting and beautiful place not just for families of the fallen but for anyone who wishes to pay homage to those people who died for our freedoms .
There is a lovely restaurant and coffee shop on site serving lovely meals drinks and cakes . And a gift shop selling a range of items.
There are remembrance gardens and quiet haunting spaces to ponder , at this time of year the trees are a fabulous tapestry of colours and if the sun shines all the better , a truly wonderful experience looked after by dedicated people who truly care what they are doing and are so kind , helpful and willing to chat !
The monument on the hill commemorating our armed services personnel lost since 1947 and updated yearly , apparently 2023 was the only year no names were up there . They also commemorate all allies , polish , Sikh , Canadian, anzacs and many others too numerous to mention but never forgotten , a haunting and beautiful place not just for families of the fallen but for anyone who wishes to pay homage to those people who died for our freedoms .
There is a lovely restaurant and coffee shop on site serving lovely meals drinks and cakes . And a gift shop selling a range of items.
There are remembrance gardens and quiet haunting spaces to ponder , at this time of year the trees are a fabulous tapestry of colours and if the sun shines all the better , a truly wonderful experience looked after by dedicated people who truly care what they are doing and are so kind , helpful and willing to chat !
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In April 2024, fork_handles said about National Memorial Arboretum
My wife and I had been keen to visit the Arboretum for many years, having a mutual interest in military history and war graves. We stayed overnight nearby, so spent two days walking around the Arboretum over the Easter weekend.
We first took the road train around the site, which was very interesting and gave an overview of many of the memorials, as well as allowing us to get our bearings for the site and what was approximately where.
We had a very good look around many of the memorials, but even with the guide book, it was still hard to identify exactly where some of the memorials were, as some are located well off any metalled path and require you to walk across grass / mud or through trees to get to them. This struck us as a bit nonsensical, as if we, as able bodied people struggled to get to some of them, how would elderly or disabled veterans manage to get to them?
The second day we went straight to the main memorial and spent some time there, before walking around the south part of the site near the shot at dawn memorial and 'The Beat'. Once again we struggled to locate some memorials we wished to see and several, when found, were located across boggy grass which was hard going.
It was also noticeable the number of children who were at the site, and families who clearly were local and used the place to walk their dogs, or just for an afternoon out, as it is free to enter. While I am all for educating children about remembrance, it was sad to see that quite a number of parents were allowing their children to run about, jumping on the memorials, shout and scream etc, without telling them to stop. In my view, this should not be allowed and as the site is full of national war memorials, there should be a greater degree of reverence and larger notices at the entrance and around the site, asking visitors to control their kids and animals while visiting the site.
Ultimately, the place is in a pretty nondescript and miserable part of the Midlands, so I suppose they have to attract as many visitors as possible to keep things going. The large restaurant and conference facilities also demonstrate that.
Overall we enjoyed our time at the Arboretum and would return. Some improvements and development of the existing metalled path network would certainly benefit the place, to allow those with limited mobility to get closer to many of the memorials.
We first took the road train around the site, which was very interesting and gave an overview of many of the memorials, as well as allowing us to get our bearings for the site and what was approximately where.
We had a very good look around many of the memorials, but even with the guide book, it was still hard to identify exactly where some of the memorials were, as some are located well off any metalled path and require you to walk across grass / mud or through trees to get to them. This struck us as a bit nonsensical, as if we, as able bodied people struggled to get to some of them, how would elderly or disabled veterans manage to get to them?
The second day we went straight to the main memorial and spent some time there, before walking around the south part of the site near the shot at dawn memorial and 'The Beat'. Once again we struggled to locate some memorials we wished to see and several, when found, were located across boggy grass which was hard going.
It was also noticeable the number of children who were at the site, and families who clearly were local and used the place to walk their dogs, or just for an afternoon out, as it is free to enter. While I am all for educating children about remembrance, it was sad to see that quite a number of parents were allowing their children to run about, jumping on the memorials, shout and scream etc, without telling them to stop. In my view, this should not be allowed and as the site is full of national war memorials, there should be a greater degree of reverence and larger notices at the entrance and around the site, asking visitors to control their kids and animals while visiting the site.
Ultimately, the place is in a pretty nondescript and miserable part of the Midlands, so I suppose they have to attract as many visitors as possible to keep things going. The large restaurant and conference facilities also demonstrate that.
Overall we enjoyed our time at the Arboretum and would return. Some improvements and development of the existing metalled path network would certainly benefit the place, to allow those with limited mobility to get closer to many of the memorials.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In October 2013, Paul R said about Lichfield Cathedral
Lichfield has been a regular haunt for my wife and I who continue to enjoy the tranquility and quintessential historical ambience of Staffordshire's premier heritage city. Its diverse architecture, boasts the only mediaeval English Cathedral with three spires. And when you visit, make a point of asking why they appear to lean? Lichfield is just seventeen miles north of Birmingham, and lies at the heart of England. 1300 years ago it stood at the centre of the Kingdom of Mercia. When Chad was made Bishop of Mercia in 669 he moved his See from Repton to Lichfield, which may already have been a holy site since there is a legend that Christians were martyred there under the Roman Emperor Diocletian. When Chad died in 672 pilgrims began to come to his shrine, and in 700, Bishop Hedda built a new church to house his bones. Starting in 1085 and continuing through the twelfth century this Saxon church was replaced by a Norman Cathedral, and then by this architecturally magnificent Gothic Cathedral, circa 1195. Steeped in history, Lichfield is a great place to visit, especially if you are genuinely interested in history and admiring incredible architecture. I confess that nearly a decade ago, my art work was displayed at Lichfield Cathedral's Chapters Restaurant and College Hall, but we now satisfy ourselves with checking out other artists and photographers who exhibit their work around the County, many of whom, were inspired to paint and pen poetry. There are several watering holes and diners within easy reach of the Cathedral. We especially enjoy the occasional afternoon de-caf tea or coffee accompanied by a light dessert. I guess, you may be right in thinking we are slightly biased, but, if you enjoy tranquility , pleasant surroundings and are inspired by amazing architecture, then Lichfield Cathedral will fire your imagination and meet your high expectations. It never ceases to amaze us; and, despite visiting for many years, we always seem to find something new to explore or discuss.
We are confident that Lichfield Cathedral is one of the most interesting religious buildings you will visit in England.
Regards,
Paul R
We are confident that Lichfield Cathedral is one of the most interesting religious buildings you will visit in England.
Regards,
Paul R
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
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