Set within 150 acres of beautiful Staffordshire countryside, the National Memorial Arboretum, also known as the Royal British Legion National Remembrance Gardens, is the nation's year-round place to remember.
Home to more than 400 memorials, it provides a peaceful setting to reflect, explore and learn about the remarkable people and stories behind them.
Here are some of the highlights taking place throughout November 2026:
Until Sunday 1 November – Arbie's i-Spy Autumn Trail
Families have one final opportunity to enjoy Arbie the Owl's autumn adventure. Explore the beautiful grounds, spot seasonal treasures and enjoy a fun outdoor activity together.
🕙 10am–4pm | £2.50 per person
Until Sunday 15 November – Field of Remembrance
A particularly moving sight during November, the Field of Remembrance features personal tributes honouring members of the Armed Forces who lost their lives in service.
Visitors can take time to reflect and remember loved ones in this peaceful setting.
🕙 10am–4pm daily
Wednesday 4, Monday 9 & Wednesday 11 November – Roots of Remembrance
Special educational activity days exploring the importance of Remembrance, helping younger generations understand the stories, sacrifices and significance behind this important time of year.
These activities are aimed at organised learning groups rather than general drop-in visitors. Advance arrangements are required.
Sunday 8 November – Remembrance Sunday
One of the most important dates in the Arboretum's calendar, Remembrance Sunday brings visitors together to honour those who have served and sacrificed their lives.
The annual commemorations provide an opportunity for reflection at this nationally significant place of Remembrance.
Special group hospitality packages may also be available, including the opportunity to watch the service on large screens from Aspects, followed by a two-course lunch.
Wednesday 11 November – Armistice Day – 10.30am
Mark Armistice Day at the National Memorial Arboretum with a special service of Remembrance.
The main service takes place on the Armed Forces Memorial and is a private, ticketed event. Other visitors can watch proceedings on large screens in Heroes' Square.
The service begins at 10.30am, with the traditional two-minute silence observed at 11am.
Until Sunday 15 November – 25 Years of… Celebrating Women Exhibition
November offers the final opportunity to explore this special exhibition, celebrating the stories and contributions of women as part of the Arboretum's 25th anniversary programme.
A fascinating addition to a visit for anyone interested in history, Remembrance and the people whose stories deserve to be told.
Until Sunday 15 November – 25th Anniversary Guided Buggy Tours
Discover the people, memorials and milestones that have shaped the Arboretum during its first 25 years.
These 60-minute volunteer-led buggy tours offer an informative and comfortable way to explore the grounds.
🎟️ Adults £10 | Children £3
There's plenty to experience at the National Memorial Arboretum beyond the special events.
🌺 Daily Act of Remembrance – 11am: Visitors can join the moving daily service in the Millennium Chapel of Peace and Forgiveness, including a two-minute silence.
🌳 Guided Walks: Join knowledgeable volunteers to discover the fascinating stories behind selected memorials.
🚂 Land Train Tours: Enjoy a journey around the grounds with recorded commentary, ideal for visitors wanting to see more of the Arboretum.
📖 Free Daily Talks: Learn about the Armed Forces Memorial, the Far East Prisoners of War and other important stories of Remembrance.
🏛️ Landscapes of Life Exhibition: Explore the permanent interactive exhibition introducing visitors to the Arboretum and the meaning of Remembrance.
🍂 Autumn Walks: Enjoy the changing colours of the season while exploring the memorials, gardens and woodland.
November is an especially poignant time to experience the National Memorial Arboretum, but there is something to appreciate here throughout the year.
Visitors can explore at their own pace, enjoy a guided tour or spend time reflecting in the peaceful surroundings.
The on-site restaurant and coffee facilities also provide somewhere to stop for refreshments, making it easy to spend several hours exploring.
Admission is free, although parking charges apply. Booking parking in advance is recommended, particularly around Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day when the Arboretum is expected to be especially busy.
For those already planning festive outings, the popular Illuminated Arboretum returns from 4–22 December 2026.
This spectacular after-dark experience transforms the grounds with light, colour and sound, offering visitors a completely different way to explore the Arboretum.
Whether attending a Remembrance service, enjoying an autumn walk or discovering the stories behind the memorials, the National Memorial Arboretum is well worth visiting when looking for things to do near Lichfield this November.
Please note: Events, services, opening arrangements, access restrictions and activity times may change, particularly around Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day. Some activities require advance booking. Visitors should always check the official National Memorial Arboretum website before travelling for the latest information, ticket availability and parking arrangements.
Venue: National Memorial Arboretum / Royal British Legion National Remembrance Gardens, Croxall Road, Alrewas, Staffordshire, DE13 7AR
Opening Hours: Generally 10am–5pm daily, subject to special event arrangements.
Telephone: 01283 245100