Visiting the National Memorial Arboretum from Burton

Discover the National Memorial Arboretum from Burton upon Trent

Set within the National Forest in Staffordshire, the National Memorial Arboretum is the UK's year-round centre of remembrance. Spanning 150 acres of picturesque grounds, riverside walks, and peaceful woodlands, the site is home to almost 400 memorials paying tribute to military and civilian service, bravery, and sacrifice. Whether you are attending a national commemorative service, researching family history, or simply looking for an uplifting, reflective day in nature, the Arboretum is one of the most moving destinations in the United Kingdom.

For visitors travelling from across the country, finding restful and practical accommodation nearby is essential. Situated on Bridge Street in Burton upon Trent, Three Queens Hotel & Lodge is located directly along the A38 corridor, making it an exceptional base for your visit to the Arboretum.

How to Get to the Arboretum from Burton upon Trent

One of the primary benefits of basing your visit in Burton upon Trent is the fast and direct road connection to the site. The National Memorial Arboretum is located in the village of Alrewas, just south of Burton.

• By Car: From Three Queens Hotel, the drive takes only 10 to 15 minutes. Drivers can join the A38 southbound straight out of town, following the road past Barton-under-Needwood to the Alrewas junction. The route is clearly signposted with brown tourist signs directing you straight to the entrance on Croxall Road (postcode DE13 7AR). Guests staying with us benefit from free on-site parking at the hotel, allowing you to travel back and forth with total convenience.
• By Public Transport and Taxi: If you are arriving by train, Burton upon Trent railway station is just one mile from Three Queens Hotel. From Burton, local bus connections run towards Alrewas, or you can take a straightforward 10-minute local taxi ride directly to the Arboretum gates.

What to See and Do at the National Memorial Arboretum

With 150 acres to explore and nearly 400 distinct tributes, it is easy to spend an entire day discovering the site. Key highlights include:

• The Armed Forces Memorial: The centrepiece of the Arboretum, this striking Portland stone memorial honours the men and women of the British Armed Forces who have lost their lives in service or through acts of terrorism since the end of the Second World War. On 11 November at 11:00 am, a shaft of sunlight passes through the bronze sculpture to illuminate the centre wreath.
• The Millenium Chapel of Peace and Forgiveness: Visitors can attend the daily act of remembrance held here at 11:00 am, which includes the Last Post and a two-minute silence.
• Diverse Tributes: Beyond military memorials, the grounds include dedications to civilian organisations such as the emergency services, the NHS, the Women's Royal Voluntary Service, and tributes to aid workers and charitable foundations.
• Wildlife and Woodlands: Set alongside the River Tame, the Arboretum features thousands of native and specimen trees, peaceful waterways, and walking paths ideal for quiet contemplation and wildlife spotting.
• The Aspects Visitor Centre: Here you will find rotating exhibitions, a gift shop, and informative displays outlining the history and ongoing purpose of the site.

Admission to the Arboretum grounds is free of charge, though booking your entry ticket and parking space online in advance via their official website is recommended to guarantee entry during peak seasons and commemorative weekends.

Dining in Burton upon Trent

After a full day of walking the expansive outdoor paths at Alrewas, you will find a broad selection of places to eat and drink in the local area. While Three Queens Hotel focuses purely on providing quiet, restful accommodation without an on-site dining facility, our location on Bridge Street places you just a five-minute walk from the vibrant heart of Burton upon Trent.

Burton is world-renowned as the brewing capital of the UK, meaning you will discover historic pubs, traditional tavern dining, and modern independent cafes within an easy stroll. Whether you are searching for a morning coffee spot in the town centre before setting out to the Arboretum, or a traditional pub meal alongside a pint of local craft ale in the evening, Burton’s high street and riverside venues cater to every preference.

Relax and Recharge at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge

When planning your trip to the National Memorial Arboretum, Three Queens Hotel & Lodge offers a relaxed and reliable place to stay. Our property features 62 en-suite rooms designed to meet the needs of solo pilgrims, couples, and travelling families alike.

You can explore our full selection on our rooms page. Our range includes:

• Single Rooms: Ideal for independent travellers visiting memorial services.
• Standard and Executive Doubles: Well-appointed bedrooms featuring comfortable double beds.
• Standard and Executive Twin Rooms: Offering two single beds for companions or colleagues.
• Family and Quadruple Rooms: Generously sized layouts suited to groups travelling together.
• Mews Apartments and the Four-Poster Suite: Distinctive options providing extra room to unwind after a long day on your feet.

Every en-suite room at Three Queens Hotel is furnished with a private bathroom, complimentary toiletries, tea and coffee making facilities, a direct dial phone, a hair dryer, and a flat-screen TV with Freeview channels and radio. Guests also enjoy complimentary high-speed WiFi throughout their stay to help plan journey itineraries and keep in touch with family.

Helpful Services for Your Visit

To ensure your trip runs as smoothly as possible, our front desk team is on duty from 8:00 am until 10:00 pm, supported by a night porter from 10:00 pm to 8:00 am, meaning there is always assistance on hand whenever you arrive. We provide daily housekeeping to keep your room fresh and tidy, alongside a 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry service for longer visits.

With free on-site vehicle parking and straightforward access to the A38, Three Queens Hotel & Lodge takes the stress out of your travel arrangements.

Ready to plan your trip? Visit our booking page to secure your room today, or contact our reception team directly at 01283 523800 or via email at frontdesk@3queenshotel.co.uk.

Planning a visit? Book your stay at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge.