National Memorial Arboretum
National Memorial Arboretum
National Memorial Arboretum
5
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
About
The National Memorial Arboretum is the UK's year-round centre of Remembrance. With 150 acres of beautiful woodland and gardens to explore and over 400 unique memorials to see, you're sure to be fascinated by our many memorials and the amazing stories and symbolism behind them. Entry is free. To help you make the most of your visit; guided walks, tours and trails, learning activities, exhibitions, a restaurant and a gift shop are also available.
Duration: More than 3 hours
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See what travellers are saying
- gpn_91197212 contributionsChristmas LightsWe visited the memorial arboretum this evening for the Christmas lights show, intended to be a nice evening with the family looking at what I'd wrongly assumed was going to be a Christmas light show based on the price, as opposed to lit pathways around the arboretum. The tickets were very expensive for what it was, I'm sorry to say I would not recommend going at £25 per head. There are some food stalls midway round where you could purchase mulled wine, coffee, various german sausages, burgers and waffles, so there was a relatively large festive selection of food and drink, vegetarian options were also available. This again however was expensive, mulled wine was £5.50 a cup, and the bratwursts are roughly £7 each. For the 6 of us it worked out a very expensive couple of hours. The lights were pleasant enough, however being brutally honest, driving around you pass more spectacular Christmas lights that people have decorated their houses with. The best bit is the Circular memorial wall, which is the last site on the trip. Which was lit with static spotlights beaming into the sky. There was also a statue that had been brought to life by light, which was very good earlier on the path and a woodland area with lit up reindeer as the most memorable displays. Had it not been as expensive as it was, it would've been an average activity with a few pretty lights and as something nice to do over Christmas, however for the price it did feel like somewhat of a let down.Many thanks for sharing your Illuminated Arboretum feedback. We’re very sorry to hear that your visit to the National Memorial Arboretum did not meet your expectations on this occasion. The memories and stories that we care for at the Arboretum are incredibly important to us and sharing stories of Remembrance, service and sacrifice is always at the heart of the events and activities that we deliver. Our Illuminated Arboretum light installations are designed to illustrate these stories in a slightly different way, whilst being reflective and mindful of the stories they represent. It is for this reason that Illuminated Arboretum may look slightly different than other similar light trails that you can visit. We do, however, receive lots of incredibly positive feedback from those who attend the event and we are pleased that it inspires many of our first time visitors to return to the Arboretum again on other occasions. Thanks once again for getting in touch. We do hope that you will choose to visit the Arboretum again in the future.Written 12 December 2022This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited December 2022Travelled as a coupleWritten 11 December 2022
- GCWakefield, United Kingdom2,703 contributionsRemembrance ServiceVisited for the Remembrance Service on the 13th November. The service itself was very poignant and I’m so glad that this year I visited here. I found it quite emotional, humbling and a wonderful place to reflect and pay my respects to the fallen. Lunch in the restaurant was very good before a walk around the beautiful gardens.Visited November 2022Travelled with friendsWritten 18 December 2022
- mrmrsm0127 contributionsInteresting & moving siteWe enjoyed a very moving visit. The site is vast- much bigger than I had imagined. The volunteers are extremely helpful. We were advised to take the land train as we were first time visitors and it was the best way to see the various monuments. It was excellent advice. I would definitely recommend a visitVisited March 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 24 March 2023
- grahampk73Kidderminster, United Kingdom66 contributionsThought provokingIt’s always a emotional visit looking at the numerous memorials that increase in number every time I visit. It’s easy to walk around and navigate. It’s free but pay for parking which is expected as it’s free to visit. Nice restaurant and enjoyed the food. Well worth the visitVisited March 2023Travelled with familyWritten 22 April 2023
- DangerousPaddyCannock, United Kingdom840 contributionsGreat Bug eventWe visited on the morning of the coronation and it was excellent. We brought our 2 young boys for the special bug event running and we really were not disappointed. The entire activity was truly brilliant. Well done to all those involved.Visited May 2023Written 9 May 2023
- Hazel J1 contributionThe sound quality of the commentary in the train is excellent.A really lovely day out. Very moving in places. A relaxed and calm place to be in. Staff were very helpful. As a person who is hard of hearing, I was extremely delighted when listening to the commentary on the train that took us around the grounds, the sound quality that came over the speakers was very clear and even with hearing aids it was easy to understand. Thank you for that. The train staff were also quite entertaining and good fun.Visited May 2023Travelled with familyWritten 19 May 2023
- Sheila RLondon, United Kingdom111 contributionsAstounding ArboretumWhat a wonderful day out! We spent 5 hours at the Arboretum and still didn't see everything. However, with the help of the charming guides we found the memorials that meant the most to me eg the Royal Engineers (for my father) and RAF (for my cousin). There is the most marvellous memorial to all the horses who died in WWI and in other battles. The whole Arboretum is moving, especially Shot at Dawn for those who were deemed deserters or cowards, interesting and educational. It is so well cared for. Words can't express how wonderful it is. We met a teacher with school kids and she told us how much they had enjoyed their day out. So encouraging!Visited May 2023Written 23 May 2023
- CM50London, United Kingdom144 contributionsSuch a wonderful, well designed and beautiful spaceMy visit here was the highlight of my week’s holiday. An interesting history, a beautiful and well designed space , inside and out. Lovely planting. So many details have been thought through and it’s very accessible for those with mobility challenges. Wonderful sculptural memorials, bringing together contributions from other nations in support, peace and reconciliation. The memorials are not just for military, for example the charity SANDS has a memorial garden. There is also a conference centre where it seems many groups come together to remember. The staff and volunteers are so helpful and the cafe is good too, with indoor and outdoor seating. Dogs are allowed in most of the outdoor spaces. You need at least half a day and then you won’t see it all! It’s free to go in, but parking is £6 or £4 booked in advance. It’s only been open about 22 years .Overall I cannot praise this highly enough. I was happy to make a donation.Visited June 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 4 June 2023
- lhamilton1995Livingston, United Kingdom56 contributionsIncredibleAbsolutely wonderful place with the most beautiful scenery and memorials. It's very reminiscent of Arlington cemetery which was always a place that stuck with me after visiting there. Was anxious about going with young kids, but they have very cleverly built 2 trails into the site, one free (stickman) and one paid (only 2.50 to do a bug trail with a prize at the end). They way they have laid the trails out mean that the adults get to see all of the main memorials, but are engaging enought to keep the kids entertained. We came here hoping to pass a morning and left at 4.30pm! Definitely recommended.Visited June 2023Travelled with familyWritten 6 June 2023
- LordCapelSouth Wales, United Kingdom185 contributionsRAPC Dedication Ceremony.Attended here for the unveiling of the Royal Army Pay Corps statue. A wonderful arboretum with many memorials to view. Easy to get to with large car parks, good facilities throughout the location. Lucky to witness a fly past by the RAF of the Hercules C30 being retired from service. I would suggest a full day to fully explore and appreciate the site.Visited June 2023Travelled soloWritten 14 June 2023
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5.0
3,811 reviews
Excellent
3,233
Very good
461
Average
64
Poor
32
Terrible
21
diane
3 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
I came from Canada to visit the National Memorial Arboretum Nov 29, 2023 for the Suez Maru 80th anniversary. It was a lovely ceremony and I was w my elderly parents and they were treated very well (given a ride and blankets). The building is modern w a beautiful gift shop and large coffee shop. Grounds were phenomenal. The only strange thing, there was no public transport to a place like this to honour our fallen, if no one can easily access such a place why is it there? We ended up taking an uber from Birmingham, was cheaper than train (for 4 of us and the taxi from Lichfield). You are looking about $120 return trip from Birmingham for transport alone to honour your loved ones. It is a magnificent place - the far east building depicted what my uncle went through, worth a visit, and after what he and others went through they deserve to be honoured as much as possible by all, no transportation barriers.
Written 4 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Timtom124
Manchester, UK395 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
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.
Written 5 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christine K
Barnsley, UK819 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
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
Written 29 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Derek whitaker
22 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
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!
Written 28 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cosmopolitan
4 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
Amazing, as ever! Thought provoking, calm, serene and beautiful surroundings. Always worth a visit!
Written 22 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Amretiredandhappy
Farnham, UK23 contributions
Oct 2023 • Friends
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.
Written 17 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Julie G.
4 contributions
Oct 2023 • Business
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.
Written 16 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mrandmrssmith2016
Reading, UK22 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
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.
Written 11 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Richard P
3 contributions
Oct 2023 • Friends
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.
Written 7 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Andrew R
Stoke-on-Trent, UK1 contribution
Sep 2023 • Family
Wonderful place ran fantastically by brilliant knowledgeable friendly volunteers,the memorials are well maintained as are the gardens ...I cant recommend this place highly enough also went to the restaurant for sunday lunch which was amazing ...tasty and reasonably priced ! We will definitely be back ! 👍👍👍👍👍👍
Written 24 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paul Cooper
Sandy, UK18 contributions
Are there any recommended B and B’s nearby please/
georger572018
Glasgow, UK243 contributions
We stayed in a Green King Hotel in Sibson about 30 minutes away. Was nice!
jill1958
Derby, UK117 contributions
How much is an annual car park pass ?
DangerousPaddy
Cannock, UK840 contributions
Book online in advance and it only costs £4. £6 if you just rock up and pay.
H..
United Kingdom9 contributions
I keep seeing mention of an annual carparking pass but cannot see how to obtain one on the website. How do I buy an annual pass?
Paula B
Rolleston on Dove, UK63 contributions
Yes you do need to pre book at the moment. But you can buy an annual car park pass, which we have done for the past three years. Ask at reception or give them a ring.
susan a
Ely, UK8 contributions
Are motor bikes allowed in and is parking charged or is a donation accepted
Jim MM
Birmingham, UK129 contributions
Hi, motorbikes are allowed and there is no parking fee for them. You still have to book a time slot for your visit and a donation is encouraged but not insisted upon. You can only book up to two weeks in advance, but it is a fantastic place to visit. Enjoy.
How frequent and accessable is public transport from lichfield to the NMA?
AnnieAries
Lichfield, UK601 contributions
Maybe contact the Arboretum to find out about public transport as I'm sure they will have that information. We went by car from Lichfield. You have to book tickets in advance of your visit as that is how they can keep numbers restricted. It's a fantastic place to visit and we felt very safe within the Covid-19 guidance.
catcatCheshire
Malpas, UK164 contributions
We have booked car parkingonline to go next week, is this classed as our tickets in to? Many thanks
Carmen D
Cheadle, UK100 contributions
Yes it’s free to enter you can make a donation if you like, but your car park ticket is your entry ticket ....very well organised and well worth the trip..enjoy
Darren Hughes
Bedford, PA
Are you aloud to jog around this location
susandcol
Yorkshire, UK122 contributions
This is a national war memorial park, and I think it would be very
disrespectful to jog around the footpaths.
Leanne B
Boston, UK8 contributions
Is it suitable for a 3yr and 5yr old?
memorialarboretum
Lichfield, UK
Our grounds are family friendly and there’s a lot for younger visitors to enjoy. Our 150-acre site is home to an abundance of wildlife and children will enjoy exploring the many habitats and natural features of the site, including our maturing wildlife pond, and two play areas. Children’s meal boxes are sold on site and picnic areas are also available. Throughout 2019 visitors can also try our Stick Man Trail. Based on the popular book by Julia Donaldson. School Holiday activities are also available. The Arboretum is free to enter, Stick Man Trail sheets are always free. Small charges apply for some holiday activities. More details about visiting with children can be found on our website or you can call us if you have any specific questions, our team are always happy to help.
D M C
41 contributions
Does the cafe sell gluten free food?
memorialarboretum
Lichfield, UK
Our restaurant and shop sells a variety of gluten free options including sandwiches and cakes. Our restaurant team will be happy to advise if the items available on the day of your visit are suitable.
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Frequently Asked Questions about National Memorial Arboretum
- National Memorial Arboretum is open:
- Sun - Sat 10:00 - 16:00
- Hotels near National Memorial Arboretum:
- (5.36 mi) The Shoulder of Mutton Inn
- (1.90 mi) Wychnor Park Country Club
- (5.17 mi) St Johns House
- (0.71 mi) George and Dragon
- (7.71 mi) YHA National Forest
- Restaurants near National Memorial Arboretum:
- (0.02 mi) National Memorial Arboretum Restaurant
- (0.64 mi) The Alrewas Fryer
- (0.42 mi) Arbour Restaurant
- (4.99 mi) Dubberley Delicious
- (3.13 mi) The Swan at Walton
- Attractions near National Memorial Arboretum:
- (0.42 mi) Allied Special Forces Memorial Grove
- (0.42 mi) Croxall Lakes
- (2.49 mi) Aqua Narrowboats
- (2.36 mi) The Red Carpet Cinema & Cafe Bar
- (2.79 mi) Midland Karting