Created in 1997, the National Memorial Arboretum is a special place that remembers those who have served, and continue to serve, our nation in many different ways. The staff and volunteers of the National Memorial Arboretum look forward to welcoming you.

With some 50,000 trees already planted, and 160 dedicated memorials established on the site, the Arboretum is a living tribute that will forever acknowledge the personal sacrifices made by the armed and civil services of this country.

It is a place where current and future generations can wander and wonder. Covering 150 acres, the Arboretum has something for everyone. For some it is a wonderful place to stroll and enjoy the beauty of the trees; for others it's a peaceful and beautiful place to remember loved ones, particularly those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

The focus, however, is not totally military.  There is a large area devoted to Police who have fallen while on duty, as well as other areas given over to the Fire & Rescue and Ambulance services. National charities that represent those who have died in particular circumstances, including children, and people killed in road incidents, are also to be found in the Arboretum grounds.

The site is developing on reclaimed gravel workings, bordered by the Rivers Trent and Tame, and gifted to the charity by Lafarge.

The Arboretum was the brainchild of Commander David Childs CBE who wished to see established a national focus for remembrance. Following a meeting with Group Captain Leonard Cheshire VC, an appeal was launched in 1994 by the then Prime Minister, John Major. Assisted also by Millennium Commission funding, the Arboretum was ofically opened to the public in May 2001.

Ten years on, the site now hosts an abundance of wild plants, woodland areas, grassland, a reed bed and wetland.  It is populated by a variety of wildlife including brown hares, skylarks, lapwings, otters, tits and finches, green woodpeckers, buntings and an occasional black redstart. Our wildlife watch group meets every month and organises bat detecting evenings, bird watching and walks.

Although many of the trees are still young, they are rapidly growing into a unique living tribute. Every year sees the dedication of new memorials and every year the Arboretum hosts an increasing number of special events. Over eighty percent of our visitors say they will return, many time and again, to see the Arboretum as it develops.