We look forward to welcoming visitors to the National Memorial Arboretum this Easter holiday. Please be aware that planned improvement works on the A38 at Lichfield, in place from 27 March to 8 April, may affect some visitor road travel. The Arboretum will remain open daily as normal, from 10am – 5pm, and signposted diversion routes will remain in place to support journeys impacted.
12.30pm | 15 May 2026
25 groups of young people from 11 local schools will take to the stage to share moments from the Arboretum’s story through music, poetry, dance and theatrical performance.
Drawing on creative skills developed during a free eight week in school programme more than 600 school children will help to bring the Arboretum’s story to life in a celebratory performance everyone is invited to attend.
Free
10am - 5pm | 16 - 17 May 2026
For 25 years, our community has remembered, reflected, told stories, sung loudly, stood silently, made memories, remembered lives lost, and celebrated lives lived, together.
The 25th Anniversary Weekend will honour this journey with two unique days of vibrant performances, reflective moments and powerful storytelling. We’ll celebrate the milestones, voices and experiences that have shaped our story so far, whist creating new memories together.
On Saturday 16 the day will be dedicated to honouring the stories of Armed Forces service shared through the memorials around the Arboretum. On Sunday our partners will take to the stage to celebrate the community formed here over more than 25 years. Across the weekend visitors can expect performances from Black Voices, Sampad, community choirs, military bands, Talent in the Ranks, and Arboretum Poet-In-Residence Arji Manuelpillai.
Free
16 May - 15 November 2026
Led by our knowledgeable volunteers, this 60-minute guided tour offers a thoughtful introduction to the Arboretum’s history. Along their journey, visitors will discover more about the moments, people and memorials that have shaped our story.
£10 adult | £3 child
16 May - 15 November 2026
Storytelling is central to how we remember, reflect, and learn at the Arboretum. You’ll be able to join one of our knowledgeable volunteers for a special story, exploring the Arboretum’s journey across more than 25 years.
Thoughtful and informative, this short 10-minute talk offers an opportunity to discover more about the people and purpose at the heart of the Arboretum’s story.
Free
16 May - 15 November 2026
Our special trails, for both adults and younger visitors, allow you to explore at your own pace.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time, or are returning to discover more, the trails offer a meaningful way to explore together, and feature memorials and landmarks significant to our developing story.
Free
18 July - 30 August 2026
At the Arboretum, art in all its forms, is used to bring the stories we share to life. This summer visitors of all ages are invited to discover why art is so important to Remembrance. During the six-week programme, there will be opportunities to shape large scale art installations, discover stories through sound and enjoy specially commissioned performances. Younger visitors will also be able to join creative sessions on Wednesdays each week.
Free
4 December - 22 December
The hugely popular Illuminated light trail will return to the Arboretum this December. Visitors of all ages will enjoy discovering stories together along the Illuminated route. To mark the end of our 25th anniversary year, this year’s route will share special stories associated with our first 25 years.
Tickets available 26 June
