Local Reviews
In October 2023, Richard P said about National Memorial Arboretum
A group of 43 seniors visited the NMA by coach on Friday 6th October and what an amazing place it is. The staff are more than helpful and the grounds and memorials leave a very lasting impression on all. The meal in the restaurant was up with Michelin rating and it is a "must visit" place that should be at the top of anyone's list.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In October 2023, mrandmrssmith2016 said about National Memorial Arboretum
What an incredible place!
All the staff/volunteers we encountered were very friendly and helpful from the minute we drove in. Especial thanks to Darren who, while we explored , was able to track down detailed formation about my husbands’ great great uncle that had been lost to the family.
Our recommendations would be to arrive in time for the short memorial service in the chapel at 11 where a silence is observed and the last post is played. The land train is a great way to orient yourself and see the main memorials and then you can explore on foot and get closer to the ones you found most interesting. The stunning Armed Forces memorial is the centre piece where you can also read personal tributes from family members and see photos of the fallen heroes but we would also recommend the ‘Shot at Dawn’ memorial which was deeply shocking and moving.
It was interesting to discover that not all the memorials are related to the military as we had previously thought before visiting.
The cafe has nice food at reasonable prices and there were some lovely items in the gift shop where you can buy everything poppy. We only noticed the exhibition in the main building as we were leaving but would recommend looking at that perhaps before you start exploring.
I’ve run out of superlatives but if you are thinking of going but not got around to it yet don’t wait any longer.
All the staff/volunteers we encountered were very friendly and helpful from the minute we drove in. Especial thanks to Darren who, while we explored , was able to track down detailed formation about my husbands’ great great uncle that had been lost to the family.
Our recommendations would be to arrive in time for the short memorial service in the chapel at 11 where a silence is observed and the last post is played. The land train is a great way to orient yourself and see the main memorials and then you can explore on foot and get closer to the ones you found most interesting. The stunning Armed Forces memorial is the centre piece where you can also read personal tributes from family members and see photos of the fallen heroes but we would also recommend the ‘Shot at Dawn’ memorial which was deeply shocking and moving.
It was interesting to discover that not all the memorials are related to the military as we had previously thought before visiting.
The cafe has nice food at reasonable prices and there were some lovely items in the gift shop where you can buy everything poppy. We only noticed the exhibition in the main building as we were leaving but would recommend looking at that perhaps before you start exploring.
I’ve run out of superlatives but if you are thinking of going but not got around to it yet don’t wait any longer.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In October 2023, Julie G. said about National Memorial Arboretum
Excellently maintained.
Lots and lots to see.
Needs a good half day.
Plenty of shelters in case it rains.
Calm, big and lovely.
Lots and lots to see.
Needs a good half day.
Plenty of shelters in case it rains.
Calm, big and lovely.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In October 2023, Amretiredandhappy said about National Memorial Arboretum
I have visited the National Memorial Arboretum several times and each visit always leaves me moved. It it a beautiful tranquil place, very well kept and always evolving. The easiest way to cover the most ground is on the train which is accompanied by a very interesting commentary. To do it justice, you will need to allow a good few hours. There is a restaurant offering a range of food and also a gift shop. Well worth the visit and I will be returning again in due course.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In October 2023, Cosmopolitan said about National Memorial Arboretum
Amazing, as ever! Thought provoking, calm, serene and beautiful surroundings. Always worth a visit!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In October 2023, Derek whitaker said about National Memorial Arboretum
Amazing place! Beautiful setting with many memorials celebrating the armed forces and civilian services who fought in numerous wars. Quite touching to know these brave men and women gave their lives for us!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In October 2023, Christine K said about National Memorial Arboretum
What an amazing yet moving place. We called here on the way home from a short break in Stafford. I found several memorials to my father's Polish Army which was interesting. The Shot at Dawn memorial was very poignant as some of those shot were only children, not that anyone should have been shot anyway. Lots of memorials to see although it was rather soggy walking to some of them due to the recent floods. There is a land train for the less able, although £7.50 is a little steep if you have a family, but then again admission to the Arboretum is free. There is a cafe selling great food, reasonably priced. You do need a full day to see everything
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In November 2023, Timtom124 said about National Memorial Arboretum
A good place to visit, everyone should visit here at least once in a lifetime as it is important to remember the sacrifice made by others whether it’s the armed forces or our public services.
Booked online prior to the day which you pay for parking only, visit to the memorials is free.
Large site arrived at 11:00 left at 16:00 I’m sure you could easily stay longer.
Cafe is really good, reasonably priced but service is a bit slow.
Only real negative is that you park tour car and are asked whether you’ve already paid etc no asking for prove etc so this is just open to dishonesty and the staff should request confirmation I feel.
Lots of places were flooded so large detour was needed, I would recommend wellies or walking boots during this time of year and all routes are accessible for wheelchairs and prams.
Booked online prior to the day which you pay for parking only, visit to the memorials is free.
Large site arrived at 11:00 left at 16:00 I’m sure you could easily stay longer.
Cafe is really good, reasonably priced but service is a bit slow.
Only real negative is that you park tour car and are asked whether you’ve already paid etc no asking for prove etc so this is just open to dishonesty and the staff should request confirmation I feel.
Lots of places were flooded so large detour was needed, I would recommend wellies or walking boots during this time of year and all routes are accessible for wheelchairs and prams.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2023, Sootydog69 said about The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum
This is a really lovely museum full of interesting and well laid out information and artefacts detailing the life of Johnson. The house itself is fascinating and the staff very welcoming. It’s also free to go in but I’m sure all donations are gratefully received! There are activities for children which looked really enjoyable.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2023, Shirley E said about The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum
Great place to find out about the celebrated literary giant who gave us A Dictionary of the English Language, not the first but definitely the best of its time in the 18th century. A nice little 12 minute film gives an easy introduction and the house is authentically furnished over five floors, including the bookshop where Johnson's dad tried to make a living but didn't quite make it. Lots of pithy sayings and bite-sizedl pieces of information around, well thought out. Free admission - although donations welcome and highly deserved - and nice friendly staff/volunteers/devotees of this educational treasure. At time of writing they even had relevant children's activities on offer. Not to be missed on a visit to lovely Lichfield, which also has other outstanding attractions including the cathedral, Erasmus Darwin's fascinating house and a really pleasant shopping centre. The big church next door has been preserved by being made into a public library/arts centre with a very amenable coffee shop above to be enjoyed alongside beautiful stained glass windows and fine architectural features.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk