Visiting the National Memorial Arboretum from Burton upon Trent

Discovering the National Memorial Arboretum from Burton upon Trent

Set within the National Forest in Staffordshire, the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas is the UK's year-round centre of Remembrance. Spanning 150 acres of beautiful woodlands, waterways, and tranquil gardens, this poignant site features more than 400 distinct memorials honouring members of the Armed Forces, emergency services, civilian organisations, and voluntary bodies who have served the nation.

Whether you are attending an official commemorative service, tracing personal family history, or seeking a tranquil day out exploring nature and sculpture, Burton upon Trent is an ideal springboard for your visit. Located on Bridge Street along the primary A38 corridor, the Three Queens Hotel & Lodge offers practical and comfortable lodgings just a short drive from the memorial grounds.

Getting to the National Memorial Arboretum

One of the primary benefits of basing your visit in Burton upon Trent is the sheer ease of travel. The Arboretum sits just south of the town, making the journey swift and straightforward whether travelling by car, taxi, or public transport.

By Car: From the Three Queens Hotel, the Arboretum is approximately seven miles away. Simply join the south-bound A38 from Burton and follow the dual carriageway directly towards Lichfield. Take the exit marked for the A513 towards Alrewas and Tamworth, following the prominent brown tourist signs pointing directly to the Arboretum entrance. The drive usually takes between 10 and 15 minutes, allowing you to beat the morning traffic and arrive in good time for opening. Guests driving to the hotel benefit from our free on-site parking, making it easy to come and go as you please throughout your stay.

By Train and Taxi: If you are arriving by rail, Burton upon Trent railway station is just one mile from the hotel. From either the station or directly outside our doors on Bridge Street, local taxis can take you to the Arboretum in roughly 15 minutes.

Key Highlights to Experience at the Arboretum

Because the site encompasses such an expansive area, it helps to plan which areas you would like to explore during your trip:

• The Armed Forces Memorial: The centrepiece of the Arboretum, this grand Portland stone structure honours the service personnel who have lost their lives on duty or through acts of terrorism since the end of the Second World War. On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, a shaft of sunlight shines through an aperture in the inner and outer walls, directly illuminating the central wreath.
• The Millennium Chapel of Peace and Forgiveness: The only contemporary chapel of its kind, hosting a Daily Act of Remembrance at 11:00 am each morning, followed by a two-minute silence.
• Shot at Dawn Memorial: Commemorating the 306 British and Commonwealth soldiers executed during the First World War, this emotive installation features a statue modelled on Private Herbert Burden, surrounded by wooden posts marking each soldier.
• Themed Gardens and Rivers: Alongside formal military memorials, there are dedications to the RNLI, British Red Cross, Police, Ambulance services, and wildlife habitats along the banks of the River Tame.

Tips for Planning Your Day

A full visit often involves a great deal of walking, so comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are strongly recommended. While entry to the Arboretum grounds is free, visitors are encouraged to book their admission and vehicle parking in advance online to guarantee entry, particularly on commemorative event days or during summer weekends.

If you prefer an informative overview of the vast grounds, the Arboretum operates a land train that journeys through the site with an accompanying audio commentary. Inside the Remembrance Centre, you will also find exhibition galleries and interactive displays explaining the origins and symbolism behind the memorials.

Dining Out in Burton upon Trent

After an emotional and fulfilling day exploring the Arboretum grounds, head back to Burton upon Trent to relax. While the Three Queens Hotel does not offer on-site dining or breakfast services, its prime location just a five-minute walk from Burton town centre puts a diverse culinary scene right at your doorstep.

The town boasts historic coaching inns, traditional brewpubs, and modern gastropubs celebrating Burton's rich brewing heritage, as well as a wide selection of international cuisines, cafes, and bistros. Whether you are looking for classic pub fare, an authentic Indian curry, Italian pasta, or a light evening meal, you will find plenty of independent and high-street options within easy strolling distance.

Restful Accommodation at Three Queens Hotel

When your day is complete, return to the comfortable setting of the Three Queens Hotel. With 62 bedrooms available across several layouts, we cater to solo travellers, couples, and travelling families alike. You can browse our wide selection of hotel rooms, which includes Single, Standard Double, Executive Double, Standard Twin, Executive Twin, Family, and Quadruple options, alongside our Mews Apartment and a traditional four-poster Suite.

Every room at the Three Queens Hotel features a private en-suite bathroom, complimentary toiletries, a flat-screen TV with Freeview and radio, a direct dial phone, and a hair dryer. You can unwind with a hot drink using your in-room tea and coffee making facilities and stay connected with our free WiFi throughout the property.

Our reception desk is open daily from 8:00 am until 10:00 pm, supported by a dedicated night porter from 10:00 pm to 8:00 am for assistance whenever you need it. We also provide daily housekeeping and a 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry service to keep your travel wardrobe fresh.

Make your trip to this historic region seamless and relaxing. Ready to arrange your stay? Book your room online directly with Three Queens Hotel today, or call our team on 01283 523800.

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