Local Reviews
In September 2015, EzzyA said about National Memorial Arboretum
I visited the Arboretum a number of years ago when it first opened, and saw that it was going to be a lovely place as the plants and trees settled in and grew. Visiting again it was interesting to see the way the place has progressed; there are many more monuments and it is a wonderful place to visit. The large monument to the members of the armed forces who have died since the end of WWII is very impressive, but I particularly liked some of the smaller monuments, such as the one to the Land Girls and to the merchants seamen. To someone who has never visited, I would describe it as a park that makes you reflect. A very inspiring place.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2015, Edward H said about National Memorial Arboretum
Visited the Memorial after many months of having it on our wish list. Was pleased to find that the car park was free after reading that its was £3.00 to park. On enquiring was told that there was an honesty box for people to make a car park donation. Arrived in time for the 11 o'clock Last Post service in the Chapel when we given in insight into the best way to visit the various memorials. Purchased a guide book which was invaluable. Although being in our late 70's decided that we would walk rather than take the train and found no difficulty in getting around. Planned our tour so that we could be back to the restaurant for a bit of lunch, which was most enjoyable and reasonably priced. Continued our tour after lunch and following the guide book we found our way around. I particularly wanted to visit the memorial of the Regiment in which I served my National Service. I also wanted to find the name of a comrade who was later lost his life on active service. The Wall of Remembrance is impressive and very poignant and after a search found his name.
It is a place that I feel everybody should visit if only to see how so many people sacrificed their lives in order that we can live as we are today.
It is a place that I feel everybody should visit if only to see how so many people sacrificed their lives in order that we can live as we are today.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2015, Rachel K said about National Memorial Arboretum
Brilliant day out for any age lots to take in and such a peaceful location.
Think that the staff here are full of information if you have any questions about anything. Just a wonderful way of reflecting on things and remembering .
Think that the staff here are full of information if you have any questions about anything. Just a wonderful way of reflecting on things and remembering .
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2015, Kate1946 said about National Memorial Arboretum
A most wonderful place we visit in rememberance of all our Naval friends through the years. Yesterday we visited to dedicate an Oak tree and bench for HMS Plymouth which served with honour in the Falklands war.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In February 2016, Geoffrey B said about National Memorial Arboretum
This was the first ever visit with the purpose of attending the unveiling of the memorial remembering the 1991 Gulf War.
An extensive area of land with every imaginable memorial to those that have fallen & survived while serving in the UK Armed Forces.
Unfortunately the Arboretum main building was closed due to building works but most of the services available were installed in semi-permanent soft skinned enclosures.
Wandering the Arboretum made for an informative morning. One did notice the absence of subtle signage to guide the visitor, something that most venues of this nature have. And if you want a map then a simple one that is free should be offered not just the no option £3 glossy map. Unfortunately there was a lack of green jacketed helpers around the grounds to assist in directions if you were 'sans' map.
Being situated in a flat area of land with no shelter it would not be recommended to visit in cold, windy or wet weather.
An extensive area of land with every imaginable memorial to those that have fallen & survived while serving in the UK Armed Forces.
Unfortunately the Arboretum main building was closed due to building works but most of the services available were installed in semi-permanent soft skinned enclosures.
Wandering the Arboretum made for an informative morning. One did notice the absence of subtle signage to guide the visitor, something that most venues of this nature have. And if you want a map then a simple one that is free should be offered not just the no option £3 glossy map. Unfortunately there was a lack of green jacketed helpers around the grounds to assist in directions if you were 'sans' map.
Being situated in a flat area of land with no shelter it would not be recommended to visit in cold, windy or wet weather.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In March 2016, Bluewing said about National Memorial Arboretum
We have been to the NMA about 8 times and every time we find something new or another memorial has been put in place. The whole area is staffed mostly by volunteers and they all do a great job. Will keep going every year with the Ride To The Wall, to pay respects and meet some old friends.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In March 2016, Sue G said about National Memorial Arboretum
This was our first visit. What a place! Even though there are major developments taking place on site and the armed forces memorial was not accessible, we had an amazing afternoon and we will definitely visit again. It has been so well designed and having the land train with a running commentary, golf buggies to aid getting around and well made paths for buggies or wheelchairs it is accessible to all. There is also a dog walk. The chapel carvings of the apostles are amazing - it's a lovely quiet place for reflection, too. It is lovely that visitors are asked for a donation rather than being 'charged' on entry and all the profits from the cafe and gift shop go back into the project. Everything is reasonably priced with prices to suit all pockets. The photo is of the SANDS garden.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In March 2016, Coopsey65 said about National Memorial Arboretum
We took my 13 year old on a very rainy Saturday, and, even though there was a main part of it closed for refurbishment, it still didn't dampen the day. Staff were welcoming, informative and helpful. There is plenty to see and in 4 hours, we didn't get to see it all, so we will be going back - perhaps when it's a bit warmer! The Japanese POW hut was particularly thought provoking.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In March 2016, tfbear said about National Memorial Arboretum
With over 300 memorials in 150 acres, there was plenty to see. The main memorial was closed for refurbishment but that only gives us a good reason to return. A whole range of emotions are induced humour, awe, poignancy, joy.
Taking the train ride is a good way of establishing an overview and a map is very helpful. The staff are very friendly and the food in the café is wholesome and good value.
Taking the train ride is a good way of establishing an overview and a map is very helpful. The staff are very friendly and the food in the café is wholesome and good value.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In March 2016, stevenage_saint said about National Memorial Arboretum
We visited for the arboretum to see my grandads name. There was a big construction taking place but that did not detract from it. On of the most moving memorials was shot at dawn. The menorials are very thoughtfully done and carefully placed to add to the thought provoking moments that you get when you walk around. It is definatly worth a visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk