Local Reviews
In July 2017, PostiePat said about National Memorial Arboretum
We took older friends who wanted to visit and took the opportunity of booking (on-line) an electric buggy for friend to use which was very helpful as the site covers 150 acres.
We started our visit with the land train ride which takes you along the more formal section and gives you an idea what there is to see and where you'd like to explore later.
We then had lunch, in the very reasonably priced restaurant, before setting off on our own to explore. There is so much to see and the grounds are laid out beautifully with some quite formal gardens near the main centre, but then you can go into the more natural areas with poignant memorials dotted in the trees. The whole site is divided into zones, which helps you plan. A map is available at the entrance desk which we found essential.
There are tracks brought from the Burma/Sumartra railways in the Far East Zone, with a museum close by which gives accounts and photographs from the various campaigns which took place.
A recreated First World War trench has just been completed in the area called the Christmas Truce memorial and is well worth a visit, although right at the far end of arboretum.
A very moving memorial was the "Shot at Dawn" which stands in a clearing in the east of the site, portraying over 300 soldiers who were shot, but then posthumously pardoned in 2006.
The whole site is very atmospheric as you relive the memories of so much suffering and hardship and a place to return to again, as more and more sites are developed.
We actually stayed overnight in the area so that we could return the following morning as there is so much to see and digest, which we felt was beneficial.
We started our visit with the land train ride which takes you along the more formal section and gives you an idea what there is to see and where you'd like to explore later.
We then had lunch, in the very reasonably priced restaurant, before setting off on our own to explore. There is so much to see and the grounds are laid out beautifully with some quite formal gardens near the main centre, but then you can go into the more natural areas with poignant memorials dotted in the trees. The whole site is divided into zones, which helps you plan. A map is available at the entrance desk which we found essential.
There are tracks brought from the Burma/Sumartra railways in the Far East Zone, with a museum close by which gives accounts and photographs from the various campaigns which took place.
A recreated First World War trench has just been completed in the area called the Christmas Truce memorial and is well worth a visit, although right at the far end of arboretum.
A very moving memorial was the "Shot at Dawn" which stands in a clearing in the east of the site, portraying over 300 soldiers who were shot, but then posthumously pardoned in 2006.
The whole site is very atmospheric as you relive the memories of so much suffering and hardship and a place to return to again, as more and more sites are developed.
We actually stayed overnight in the area so that we could return the following morning as there is so much to see and digest, which we felt was beneficial.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2017, Rosslyn R said about National Memorial Arboretum
My Sister Anna's birthday was 1st Aug and she asked if we could visit the N A. Not our first visit and certainly not our last. We try to visit every few months especially when a new memorial is opened.
The whole atmosphere of the place is alive and exciting admission is free although your given many opportunities to donate money. The staff and volunteers are so positive and full of enthusiasm and knowledge it's infectious.
This time we took the little train £6 per adult the journey was at a snails pace giving ample time to take photos. There was a very informative audio soundtrack pointing us in the direction of the next monument and telling us about the service it represented and interesting facts about its construction and about the trees planted around it and why that particular type of tree was chosen. The tour lasted approx 1 hour.
The Chapel is a must to visit the feeling of calm and love in there is wonderful.
Food in the restaurant is varied and offers a good choice of hot and cold at reasonable prices.
The shop has something for everyone prices vary from pocket money to beautiful glassware at quite expensive prices.
All in all a great day despite the rain and once again I came away full of pride and wonder I also gained more knowledge of just what our service people past and present do to keep us safe.
Cannot recommend a visit here enough, even the little children have something to do and they are learning without even realising it.
The whole atmosphere of the place is alive and exciting admission is free although your given many opportunities to donate money. The staff and volunteers are so positive and full of enthusiasm and knowledge it's infectious.
This time we took the little train £6 per adult the journey was at a snails pace giving ample time to take photos. There was a very informative audio soundtrack pointing us in the direction of the next monument and telling us about the service it represented and interesting facts about its construction and about the trees planted around it and why that particular type of tree was chosen. The tour lasted approx 1 hour.
The Chapel is a must to visit the feeling of calm and love in there is wonderful.
Food in the restaurant is varied and offers a good choice of hot and cold at reasonable prices.
The shop has something for everyone prices vary from pocket money to beautiful glassware at quite expensive prices.
All in all a great day despite the rain and once again I came away full of pride and wonder I also gained more knowledge of just what our service people past and present do to keep us safe.
Cannot recommend a visit here enough, even the little children have something to do and they are learning without even realising it.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In December 2014, Simon D said about National Memorial Arboretum
A long promised trip to the Arboretum. It was definitely a walking boots and waterproofs day and it was quite thought provoking to read the memorials - it makes you realise the wide range of professions and backgrounds who gave their life in public service.
Practical bits - we visited on Friday 5 December and it was very quiet. The site is just off the A38 and only signed at the relevant exit.
Car parking is £3 and entry to the venue is free.
Guide book £6 and was well worth the money.
A dinner and coffee was £10 each and was fine.
We spend 4 hours on site, but could have easily spent a full day.
We went to the 11am short service in the church and observed 2 minutes silence. The guides appear to be all volunteers and were excellent.The guides comments and suggestions added to our day, so its worth a listen.
We then started to explore the site, and headed of the police area as a particular interest. Some of the exhibits were more like modern art and very impressive, some more traditional.
The far east area and in particular Burma Star association memorial was tucked away and easily missed but well worth to the visit - the visitors centre was excellent, shared knowledge and dispelled myths about the Bridge over the River Kwai - it wasn't event that river!
We used the restaurant for a coffee stop and lunch and both were fine. Only word of warning - a couple of parts of the restaurant were in a draft as access to the arboretum is through adjacent sliding patio doors.
The place needs to generate and attract serious funding to survive, so dig deep
Practical bits - we visited on Friday 5 December and it was very quiet. The site is just off the A38 and only signed at the relevant exit.
Car parking is £3 and entry to the venue is free.
Guide book £6 and was well worth the money.
A dinner and coffee was £10 each and was fine.
We spend 4 hours on site, but could have easily spent a full day.
We went to the 11am short service in the church and observed 2 minutes silence. The guides appear to be all volunteers and were excellent.The guides comments and suggestions added to our day, so its worth a listen.
We then started to explore the site, and headed of the police area as a particular interest. Some of the exhibits were more like modern art and very impressive, some more traditional.
The far east area and in particular Burma Star association memorial was tucked away and easily missed but well worth to the visit - the visitors centre was excellent, shared knowledge and dispelled myths about the Bridge over the River Kwai - it wasn't event that river!
We used the restaurant for a coffee stop and lunch and both were fine. Only word of warning - a couple of parts of the restaurant were in a draft as access to the arboretum is through adjacent sliding patio doors.
The place needs to generate and attract serious funding to survive, so dig deep
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In June 2013, StagsBOD said about National Memorial Arboretum
I wanted to visit to see "the wall" since I saw it on TV when it opened in 2007. So whilst in Staffs for a visit to an NT place we decided to call in on our way back home. Arriving at 3.30pm I realised that this place was a bit bigger than I originally thought.
The excellent large car park started it off, and then the extrance to the visitor centre made us realise. We found out that there was no charge, and then an assistant approached and asked if we'd come to look for anything in particular. I mentioned "the wall" and he pointed it out in the distance. He mentioned the layout of the 150 acre site (which actually opened in 2001) and all of the other memorials dedicated to different areas of the armed forces.
We went straight to the wall, and very impressive it is, from the clearly displayed panels detailing each armed forces personnel's name to the two magnificently carved statues on either side. It was very moving to see odd photos and notes left by people for their lost family members.
We managed a quick walk over the immaculately tended grounds looking at some of the independant memorials, and a quick look around the chapel.
There is an excellent restaurant, good clean toilets and a gift shop plus a brief display about the arboretum. As requested we made a generous donation to the upkeep of the place.
This attraction caught us unawares. It is vast, brilliantly laid out, so clean and tidy and above all very moving and peaceful. More people should be aware of it and the opportunity it presents for all of us to pay our respects to our armed forces personnel who have passed away in service since 1945.
We will be back with a full half day at least to take it all in. I would suggest a fine day to be able to cover the area in comfort.
The excellent large car park started it off, and then the extrance to the visitor centre made us realise. We found out that there was no charge, and then an assistant approached and asked if we'd come to look for anything in particular. I mentioned "the wall" and he pointed it out in the distance. He mentioned the layout of the 150 acre site (which actually opened in 2001) and all of the other memorials dedicated to different areas of the armed forces.
We went straight to the wall, and very impressive it is, from the clearly displayed panels detailing each armed forces personnel's name to the two magnificently carved statues on either side. It was very moving to see odd photos and notes left by people for their lost family members.
We managed a quick walk over the immaculately tended grounds looking at some of the independant memorials, and a quick look around the chapel.
There is an excellent restaurant, good clean toilets and a gift shop plus a brief display about the arboretum. As requested we made a generous donation to the upkeep of the place.
This attraction caught us unawares. It is vast, brilliantly laid out, so clean and tidy and above all very moving and peaceful. More people should be aware of it and the opportunity it presents for all of us to pay our respects to our armed forces personnel who have passed away in service since 1945.
We will be back with a full half day at least to take it all in. I would suggest a fine day to be able to cover the area in comfort.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In June 2017, RobDavidson said about National Memorial Arboretum
The National Memorial Arboretum is the national site for remembrance and is dedicated to the people who have served this country in the many wars and conflicts over the last century or so.
The main focus of the memorials and tributes is for the military, but there are also areas of tribute to the police, fire and ambulance services that have also played a major part whenever conflict arises.
Set in over 100 acres of grounds, the memorials and gardens are set out in areas that are easily accessed by footpaths and roads, with the additional option of a buggy-hire service (with driver/tour guide) for small groups and also a road train that can take many more passengers around the site.
Also on site is a well-managed, large restaurant and also coffee shops for a quick break. there is also a shop with many gifts and souvenirs for those who wish to purchase them.
Our main aim was to find the memorial to my late uncle who was killed aboard HMS Barham in November 1941, which we did, and were able to purchase a poppy from the on-site Royal British Legion area and place it at the memorial.
An easy to use, interactive screen in the main building allows visitors to search the many memorials that are dotted around the grounds and this also lists the locations of where they are to be found.
We spent the day walking around the site and viewing not only the various memorials, gardens and displays, but also the surrounding landscape (the Rivers Tame and Trent run nearby) and the abundance of wildlife that is also noted on informative boards placed around the pathways at convenient point (making them an ideal educational tool for young children).
Whilst being a very attractive place to visit, it also makes one realise the sacrifices that have been made over the years for our country by so many people of all nationalities and the fact that we must never, ever forget them.
The main focus of the memorials and tributes is for the military, but there are also areas of tribute to the police, fire and ambulance services that have also played a major part whenever conflict arises.
Set in over 100 acres of grounds, the memorials and gardens are set out in areas that are easily accessed by footpaths and roads, with the additional option of a buggy-hire service (with driver/tour guide) for small groups and also a road train that can take many more passengers around the site.
Also on site is a well-managed, large restaurant and also coffee shops for a quick break. there is also a shop with many gifts and souvenirs for those who wish to purchase them.
Our main aim was to find the memorial to my late uncle who was killed aboard HMS Barham in November 1941, which we did, and were able to purchase a poppy from the on-site Royal British Legion area and place it at the memorial.
An easy to use, interactive screen in the main building allows visitors to search the many memorials that are dotted around the grounds and this also lists the locations of where they are to be found.
We spent the day walking around the site and viewing not only the various memorials, gardens and displays, but also the surrounding landscape (the Rivers Tame and Trent run nearby) and the abundance of wildlife that is also noted on informative boards placed around the pathways at convenient point (making them an ideal educational tool for young children).
Whilst being a very attractive place to visit, it also makes one realise the sacrifices that have been made over the years for our country by so many people of all nationalities and the fact that we must never, ever forget them.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In December 2017, CiderMonkey said about National Memorial Arboretum
Went there after many years of trying and so glad I made it. As an Armed Forces veteran I found the place immaculate (as much as it could be given it was icy and winter) and so very humbling. The place is always evolving and growing and the gardens are very well kept. All staff, whether in reception, the restaurant or on site are so very helpful. Nothing is an issue for any of them and they always have time to assist or answer questions. I would encourage anyone to make the journey there and witness the professionalism of the entire place. It was and as I was alone I did my "Own thing" and wandered around the well laid paths in awe of those who had fallen in conflict. There is a land train - about £6 and almost an hour that goes around the site with a running commentary. Its not a get on/get off thing but seemed to be well supported. Restaurant food was plentiful and sensibly priced. I bought a guide book which was very informative about the NMA and the memorials there (currently over 330). Overall a thoroughly enjoyable day and well worth the visit - I spent approx. 3.5 hrs there.
The place is best accessed by car however not having one available I followed the website directions for public transport. Sadly these need to be upgraded. Lichfield Trent Valley station is the nearest but is not on a bus route. You need Lichfield City and the 812 bus stops 2 mins walk. Also the route from Alrewas is awkward - send me a request and I'll advise the easiest and quickest way for access.
Overall, a great and humbling experience and one I look to repeat as soon as I can. the entrance is free how donations are appreciated.
The place is best accessed by car however not having one available I followed the website directions for public transport. Sadly these need to be upgraded. Lichfield Trent Valley station is the nearest but is not on a bus route. You need Lichfield City and the 812 bus stops 2 mins walk. Also the route from Alrewas is awkward - send me a request and I'll advise the easiest and quickest way for access.
Overall, a great and humbling experience and one I look to repeat as soon as I can. the entrance is free how donations are appreciated.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In May 2018, Bob A said about National Memorial Arboretum
We visited here as part of a wider weekend in the area. Our visit was not planned and was just an add on to the last day, however what a find!
After parking (£3 charge per car) we were greeted at the entrance and the centre was explained to us. You then enter a really modern and well laid out entrance with ticket desk (It's free to enter although there are a range of options you can do such as buggies to get around), toilets, shop and huge cafe/restaurant.
You then enter Heroes Square before finding your way around the complex. Warning: IT IS HUGE so get a plan before you head out and be prepared to walk.
There is a huge range of memorials from armed forces to police, secret services to fire and nursing too. All are different, all have their own poignancy (including seeing the stone mason adding the most recent names to the roll of honour of armed forces personnel who have died in service since the end of WWII. there are even sections devoted to different theatres of conflict to remember particular areas or countries.
On the day we came, there were some people who re-enact WWII scenes such as RAF, Army Nursing etc to help bring things to life. Nice little touch.
The planting is exceptional, such a huge range of trees and shrubs and walks through woodlands as well as along the path by the river.
After we had finished we enjoyed the cafe for a hot drink and cake, a browse in the shop where there are currently some unique items linked to RAF 100 years, and used the super clean toilets.
The only downside is that there should be more maps on display around the complex to help you find things and your way around. The signage they do have is poor and not of real use unless you have a map to follow.
Well worth visiting though. And I will definitely come back.
After parking (£3 charge per car) we were greeted at the entrance and the centre was explained to us. You then enter a really modern and well laid out entrance with ticket desk (It's free to enter although there are a range of options you can do such as buggies to get around), toilets, shop and huge cafe/restaurant.
You then enter Heroes Square before finding your way around the complex. Warning: IT IS HUGE so get a plan before you head out and be prepared to walk.
There is a huge range of memorials from armed forces to police, secret services to fire and nursing too. All are different, all have their own poignancy (including seeing the stone mason adding the most recent names to the roll of honour of armed forces personnel who have died in service since the end of WWII. there are even sections devoted to different theatres of conflict to remember particular areas or countries.
On the day we came, there were some people who re-enact WWII scenes such as RAF, Army Nursing etc to help bring things to life. Nice little touch.
The planting is exceptional, such a huge range of trees and shrubs and walks through woodlands as well as along the path by the river.
After we had finished we enjoyed the cafe for a hot drink and cake, a browse in the shop where there are currently some unique items linked to RAF 100 years, and used the super clean toilets.
The only downside is that there should be more maps on display around the complex to help you find things and your way around. The signage they do have is poor and not of real use unless you have a map to follow.
Well worth visiting though. And I will definitely come back.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In July 2018, Jesadeke said about National Memorial Arboretum
As veterans ourselves, and having lost close friends, this was on the the list of 'places we definitely must go', so we were really looking forward to our visit. It lived up to our expectations and more. Plenty of parking on arrival that costs £3 for the day, an absolute snip when you consider the rest of the day could be free if you wanted. However, there are plenty of ways to support the charity if you wish. We decided to have a buggy tour, which took you a little bit off the beaten track and with our guide, John, one of the many extremely knowledgable volunteers, we had the most marvellous hour or so.
The large Armed Forces Memorial literally took my breath away. My mind was completely blown when we were told about the tiny gaps in the side of the memorial walls that on the 11th hour, of the 11th day of the 11th month (and only then), a shaft of light shines through and hits the wreath at the centre of the memorial. (Ask the volunteer at the Memorial to see a photo of this - they always have one handy to show you). Each and every one of the memorials throughout the arboretum had been so well thought out and had such meaning: e.g. All the buds on Anne Frank's rose are cut off and it is never allowed to flower because she never did.....yep I know, mind blown again!
The restaurant had the most amazing choice of food and a completely seperate gluten free section - who would have thought of a gluten free chocolate and beetroot cake, but decided to stick to soup! At the end of the day our feet ached but was a small price to pay compared to the price the many remembered there paid and we had the opportunity to reflect and remember - I shed a few tears that day. A fantastic day I will never forget and we will definitely return one day.
The large Armed Forces Memorial literally took my breath away. My mind was completely blown when we were told about the tiny gaps in the side of the memorial walls that on the 11th hour, of the 11th day of the 11th month (and only then), a shaft of light shines through and hits the wreath at the centre of the memorial. (Ask the volunteer at the Memorial to see a photo of this - they always have one handy to show you). Each and every one of the memorials throughout the arboretum had been so well thought out and had such meaning: e.g. All the buds on Anne Frank's rose are cut off and it is never allowed to flower because she never did.....yep I know, mind blown again!
The restaurant had the most amazing choice of food and a completely seperate gluten free section - who would have thought of a gluten free chocolate and beetroot cake, but decided to stick to soup! At the end of the day our feet ached but was a small price to pay compared to the price the many remembered there paid and we had the opportunity to reflect and remember - I shed a few tears that day. A fantastic day I will never forget and we will definitely return one day.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In July 2012, aldo28 said about National Memorial Arboretum
I cannot find the words to describe how wonderful our visit was; we felt privileged to be there. It was a truly humbling experience…
We arrived around on 10.30am on June 27 2012. There was ample parking - its pay and display so you will need some change, it's a maximum of £3.00 for a day; the proceeds go to back to the charity for the Arboretum.
Admission is free – donation boxes are available. The staff are amazing, they are all friendly, helpful and extremely knowledgeable.
There is a well stocked Visitors Centre where you can get a map for £3. We bought a Guide Book for £6.50. It lists the memorials on site and is also a lovely souvenir of our visit. There is so much to see so to get a better appreciation some kind of guide is a must. A Restaurant serves hot and cold food and there’s a land train which provides a guided tour of the site, ensuring that you don’t miss a thing.
The Armed Forces Memorial is breathtaking, the setting is amazing. It commemorates those who were killed on duty or as a result of terrorism from the end of the Second World War to the present day. Seeing all of those names was so sad and emotional.
The rivers Tame and Trent flow through the site and there is an abundance of birdlife and wildlife. It is so peaceful and serene with plenty of memorial benches where you can sit and reflect.
We only had three hours there, not enough time to see everything. We will return soon with our 12 year-old grandson and spend a day there. He enjoys history and I don’t think he will ever get a better history lesson than this!
A visit to the Arboretum is a must!!! I think everyone, young or old, should visit at least once. It is an opportunity to pay respects to those service men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice for us, and puts our own lives into perspective.
We arrived around on 10.30am on June 27 2012. There was ample parking - its pay and display so you will need some change, it's a maximum of £3.00 for a day; the proceeds go to back to the charity for the Arboretum.
Admission is free – donation boxes are available. The staff are amazing, they are all friendly, helpful and extremely knowledgeable.
There is a well stocked Visitors Centre where you can get a map for £3. We bought a Guide Book for £6.50. It lists the memorials on site and is also a lovely souvenir of our visit. There is so much to see so to get a better appreciation some kind of guide is a must. A Restaurant serves hot and cold food and there’s a land train which provides a guided tour of the site, ensuring that you don’t miss a thing.
The Armed Forces Memorial is breathtaking, the setting is amazing. It commemorates those who were killed on duty or as a result of terrorism from the end of the Second World War to the present day. Seeing all of those names was so sad and emotional.
The rivers Tame and Trent flow through the site and there is an abundance of birdlife and wildlife. It is so peaceful and serene with plenty of memorial benches where you can sit and reflect.
We only had three hours there, not enough time to see everything. We will return soon with our 12 year-old grandson and spend a day there. He enjoys history and I don’t think he will ever get a better history lesson than this!
A visit to the Arboretum is a must!!! I think everyone, young or old, should visit at least once. It is an opportunity to pay respects to those service men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice for us, and puts our own lives into perspective.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In May 2017, CocoaBerkshire said about National Memorial Arboretum
We could not have visited on a wetter day. It rained from the minute we got on the coach to when we got off at the end of the day. We spend over seven hours in all getting to and from the National Arboretum, but we would not have missed it. I will not repeat all the other observations, but I will give you some handy hints.
Make sure you book your train ticket as soon as you get there. There are only so many seats available. Fortunately, the ride was covered! You are on the train for a total of 50 minutes. Keep your ticket, it has the time recorded on it and it is taken from you when you get on the train.
If you pay to go in the exhibition you get the radio guide for outside. My husband used his despite the rain, but I did not. The exhibition is not large, but interesting, and I would recommend you visit here first as it does give an insight into what you will see later.
There are two eateries. The large restaurant area serves lovely hot meals, soup, sandwiches etc. Breakfast finishes at 11.30, and lunch starts at 12.00, which caught out our friends. We had scampi and chips, and lamb hotpot, both large portions and delicious. If you want a main meal go directly to that server, otherwise you could be in the wrong queue for a long time!
Tea/coffee is self service. Coffee is obvious, but the tea is not. Hot water is dispensed to the left of the coffee machine.
The coffee shop is much, much smaller, and serves drinks, wine, cakes and snacks. There is seating outside both the eateries.
This place is definitely perfect for the disabled. Very well planned. The staff and volunteers are very helpful and will do their best to answer any questions thrown at them.
I would love to go back on a sunny day to get the full benefit of the trees, plants and memorials. It is growing all the time, so always something new to see.
Please read other reviews as I have not gone into observations that have been covered elsewhere.
Make sure you book your train ticket as soon as you get there. There are only so many seats available. Fortunately, the ride was covered! You are on the train for a total of 50 minutes. Keep your ticket, it has the time recorded on it and it is taken from you when you get on the train.
If you pay to go in the exhibition you get the radio guide for outside. My husband used his despite the rain, but I did not. The exhibition is not large, but interesting, and I would recommend you visit here first as it does give an insight into what you will see later.
There are two eateries. The large restaurant area serves lovely hot meals, soup, sandwiches etc. Breakfast finishes at 11.30, and lunch starts at 12.00, which caught out our friends. We had scampi and chips, and lamb hotpot, both large portions and delicious. If you want a main meal go directly to that server, otherwise you could be in the wrong queue for a long time!
Tea/coffee is self service. Coffee is obvious, but the tea is not. Hot water is dispensed to the left of the coffee machine.
The coffee shop is much, much smaller, and serves drinks, wine, cakes and snacks. There is seating outside both the eateries.
This place is definitely perfect for the disabled. Very well planned. The staff and volunteers are very helpful and will do their best to answer any questions thrown at them.
I would love to go back on a sunny day to get the full benefit of the trees, plants and memorials. It is growing all the time, so always something new to see.
Please read other reviews as I have not gone into observations that have been covered elsewhere.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk