Local Reviews
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 August 2019, 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.<br><br>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.<br><br>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.<br><br>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.<br><br>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
In November 2021, PWNottingham said about National Memorial Arboretum
On our first visit today we thought the NMA was marvellous, predominantly as a place for remembrance, but also for the architecture, sculpture and landscape. We were surprised and moved to see so many very young people some of whom were obviously grieving for those lost in recent conflicts. The NMA was providing a place of beauty and meaning for people to be able to come to grieve and remember. The volunteers added tremendously to our visit by their readiness to help and to give us information. We started our day with the 10.50am visit to the Chapel and the Service of Remembrance which provided an excellent beginning. We then walked around some of the memorials and spent a lot of time at the Armed Services Memorial which we thought has been so cleverly designed, very modern, yet drawing on most probably Stonehenge, ancient Egypt and Classical Greece and Rome to create something incredibly poignant for today. We then had lunch in the Restaurant where we found the food to be ideal for what we wanted. We then had a browse round the shop which we thought was tasteful and sold items suitable for the setting. I bought a guidebook and some cards and chocolates. Time was then passing too quickly and we hadn't seen enough so we decided to book a ride in a buggy with a guide. As it was a short November day this was a brilliant way to see a lot more of the NMA in limited time. After this we felt we would have liked to be here longer so our aim is to visit again. Although the NMA is a place of remembrance we experienced it as somewhere very much "alive" and "of today". Overall we were incredibly impressed and I hope my write up does it some justice but such an emotionally moving place has to be experienced personally so do visit!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In June 2021, Lisa W said about National Memorial Arboretum
I would highly recommended the National Memorial Arboretum to visit and pay your respects. It is a beautiful location and so respectful. Right from our arrival in the car park, which was scheduled due to Covid guidelines, the attendants there were so friendly and polite, and I can say the same about every single member of staff encountered throughout our visit.
We visited both the restaurant and the coffee bar and all food and drink was nice. There is also a shop and toilet facilities.
The location is absolutely full of memorials. We visited on a very sunny day and it was very peaceful to walk down 'The Beat' with memorials and trees planted by police forces in the UK. It is such a serene place, with clearly marked pathways and benches to sit and reflect.
The Shot at Dawn memorial is quite harrowing to see when you think about the representation shown there and the story behind this, which is told in interpretation in a nearby shelter. It is important to know this vital history however so the same mistakes are not made again.
Overall, I could not fault anything about our visit. The car park currently costs £4 per vehicle to park and to get in is free, however, donations are recommended and welcomed, of which I believe is necessary because when you see how immaculate the entire place is, it very much relies on donations and is an important part of our history. There is so much hard work that goes into its upkeep. We saw statues being treated and polished while we were there and the landscaping of the grounds is so wonderful and neat.
We will definitely be visiting again. I visited with my mum. We spent around 4 hours in total there but still didn't get round to see everything due to taking time to reflect.
We visited both the restaurant and the coffee bar and all food and drink was nice. There is also a shop and toilet facilities.
The location is absolutely full of memorials. We visited on a very sunny day and it was very peaceful to walk down 'The Beat' with memorials and trees planted by police forces in the UK. It is such a serene place, with clearly marked pathways and benches to sit and reflect.
The Shot at Dawn memorial is quite harrowing to see when you think about the representation shown there and the story behind this, which is told in interpretation in a nearby shelter. It is important to know this vital history however so the same mistakes are not made again.
Overall, I could not fault anything about our visit. The car park currently costs £4 per vehicle to park and to get in is free, however, donations are recommended and welcomed, of which I believe is necessary because when you see how immaculate the entire place is, it very much relies on donations and is an important part of our history. There is so much hard work that goes into its upkeep. We saw statues being treated and polished while we were there and the landscaping of the grounds is so wonderful and neat.
We will definitely be visiting again. I visited with my mum. We spent around 4 hours in total there but still didn't get round to see everything due to taking time to reflect.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In December 2013, Traveller51_11 said about National Memorial Arboretum
We have only visited the National Memorial Arboretum twice - once in February 2010 and again last month. Just in that short time, it is obvious just how it is flourishing as the "special place honouring those who have served, and continue to serve, our nation .....".
The trees have visibly grown larger and it is not hard to imagine what a beautiful arboretum it will become - sadly, it is a place that has been necessary to create. It had to be done!
The 29th November 2013 was the 70th anniversary of a WW2 Atrocity - the 414 British POW's who lost their lives in the 1943 sinking of the Japanese ship 'Suez Maru' were never given the justice they deserved. Google "Suez Maru" to discover more. One victim's great-niece had the impetus to strive for a memorial to these men and, on the 29th, she and members of other victims' families stood and remembered - reading out all the names of the 414 British men who had perished.
This new memorial stands beside the FEPOW Museum (members of which helped to achieve this memorial too). There is a Memorial in Singapore (at Kranji War Cemetery) but it is only fitting that there is a focal point in the UK for families to visit.
The National Memorial Arboretum appears to be a very well-run centre and all staff/volunteers we met were friendly and helpful. There is a gift shop; tea room; toilets; exhibition area; and a lovely restaurant - all proceeds from the latter (and perhaps from all?) going straight back into the Arboretum. There is a car park fee but no fee into the Memorial site.
Keep up the good work :-)
The trees have visibly grown larger and it is not hard to imagine what a beautiful arboretum it will become - sadly, it is a place that has been necessary to create. It had to be done!
The 29th November 2013 was the 70th anniversary of a WW2 Atrocity - the 414 British POW's who lost their lives in the 1943 sinking of the Japanese ship 'Suez Maru' were never given the justice they deserved. Google "Suez Maru" to discover more. One victim's great-niece had the impetus to strive for a memorial to these men and, on the 29th, she and members of other victims' families stood and remembered - reading out all the names of the 414 British men who had perished.
This new memorial stands beside the FEPOW Museum (members of which helped to achieve this memorial too). There is a Memorial in Singapore (at Kranji War Cemetery) but it is only fitting that there is a focal point in the UK for families to visit.
The National Memorial Arboretum appears to be a very well-run centre and all staff/volunteers we met were friendly and helpful. There is a gift shop; tea room; toilets; exhibition area; and a lovely restaurant - all proceeds from the latter (and perhaps from all?) going straight back into the Arboretum. There is a car park fee but no fee into the Memorial site.
Keep up the good work :-)
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In February 2017, Mallor said about National Memorial Arboretum
We visited these Memorial Grounds on a cold and windy day in February. We were met by a very welcoming volunteer who on learning it was our first visit explained where everything that we need to find was. We attended the 11am remembrance service where there was a man who when the service was over asked permission to read a prayer. This request was granted and the man explained that that day was the 72nd anniversary to the time allowing for time differences that his father was killed in the Far East . This was so emotional and thank you to the volunteer who agreed to the request. It obviously meant a lot to the man and after all that's what the Memorial Grounds are for. The volunteer then explained the history of the Arboretum. We spent a good couple of hours walking round looking at all the various memorials until our faces were frozen stiff with cold. We took a train ride which was well worth the £5 each. It showed us just how much bigger the grounds are than we thought and knew we wouldn't see even half of it in one day. We had a lovely roast dinner where again the staff were very friendly. As it was February and very cold the grounds and restaurant were not too busy but there were still lots of people there and I imagine in the summer it will be packed as it should be. It is obvious that a great deal of thought has gone into the creating and positioning of the memorials and this was explained on the train ride. A trip to the National Memorial Arboretum is a must and we will certainly visit again as there is no way a single trip is sufficient. We went as a mark of respect to all those who have given their lives so that we can live as we do today. There is no charge for entry but £3 all day parking - cheap and the money goes towards the upkeep. I would recommend everyone to take a trip here.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk