The National Memorial Arboretum - About the National Memorial Arboretum

Welcome to the National Memorial Arboretum - where the Nation remembers

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About the National Memorial Arboretum

The National Memorial Arboretum is the United Kingdom's living and lasting memorial to commemorate and celebrate:

•	those who have given their lives in the service of their country,
•	all who have served and those who have suffered as a result of conflict,
•	others who for specific or appropriate reasons are commemorated on the site.

The 49th West Riding Division Polar Bear – the first memorial to be sited at the NMA

The Arboretum is a unique haven of peace, contemplation and hope for the future and is the site of the Armed Forces Memorial. It consists of 150 acres of wooded parkland within the National Forest in Staffordshire where visitors can both enjoy and learn about the trees and their surroundings, and reflect upon their special symbolism.

The Arboretum has a lot to offer both young and old. Come for a day out to enjoy the peace and tranquillity, the trees, the memorials, the history, the sense of national pride. Have lunch or drinks in the Arbour Restaurant; find all sorts of gifts and memorabilia in our shop; above all enjoy the experience.

The staff and volunteers of the National Memorial Arboretum look forward to welcoming you.

Events

There are events to suit all ages and tastes. Whether it be ex-Service events or wildlife watches, there is something for everyone. Turn to our diary of events for more information.

Education

We welcome school groups of all ages to the National Memorial Arboretum. In both 2008 and 2009 we hosted Words and Willow a cross-curricula project offering poetry and willow sculpture activities.

Willow poppies and poppy seed pod, created by during Words and Willows 2008

Click here for what your school could get out of a visit to the Arboretum.

Commemoration

We can advise you of many ways to remember the memory of a loved one, friend or comrade at the Arboretum. You could donate towards a bench for others to sit and relax upon or under certain circumstances, you could dedicate a tree. All can be organised easily and sensitively, so do let us know how we can help you.

Like to help us?

We welcome help in many ways. We encourage you to become a volunteer, giving up any time to help, that you feel you can. Or you can help by making a donation. The NMA Appeal was launched in April 2009, to raise £8 million for urgent infrastructure work. Click here to find out more.