RNLI Arboretum memorial
Our lifesaving spirit reflected in our garden
The design was created by respected gardener and TV presenter Chris Beardshaw and is an enhancement of the original site that was created and funded by local volunteers.
In designing this garden for us, Chris has created a coastal scene – a beautiful space in which to contemplate and reflect on the work of the RNLI.
This landscape has been designed to reflect the work of RNLI crews and the relationship between crew members, a rescued person and all their families whose lives become interwoven during a rescue. It is intended not only as a celebration and recognition of the work of the RNLI but also to honour those crew and people who have lost their lives saving others.
Image is a sculpture of a lifeboat crew member crafted by Andrew Fitchett.
Download list of names of those who have lost their lives whilst saving lives at sea
This garden would not have been possible without the generous support of the following:
- Cdr David Childs
- Mr Thomas Fox
- Block Stone Ltd
- Chris Beardshaw Ltd
- Harris Quarries
- Mr Andrew Fitchett
- Lafarge UK
- Herbert Baggaley Construction Ltd
- Jody Lidgard, Mulberry Tree Gardens
Committees from Staffordshire RNLI branches and guilds:
- Burton on Trent Branch
- Rugeley and Stafford Branch
- Uttoxeter Guild
- Lichfield Branch
- Tamworth Branch
Friends of the Arboretum
The National Memorial Arboretum
The Arboretum is situated in the centre of England on Croxall Road, Alrewas in Staffordshire. It is easy to reach from any part of the country and is close to all the Midlands motorways.
The National Memorial Arboretum is a charity run by staff and volunteers and is part of The Royal British Legion family.
Opening times
The Arboretum is open every day except Christmas Day between 9am and 5pm.
During the winter months the Arboretum grounds close at dusk. The visitor centre remains open until 5pm.
During the summer months last admission to the Arboretum is 4.30pm (unless otherwise stated).
Admissions
You are welcome to visit the Arboretum free of charge.
Visitors arriving independently by car should be aware that a maximum parking charge of £3.00 per day applies (pay and display) with lower prices applying for half a day and during winter months. There is no charge for coaches or motorcycles.
Please note: all monies from parking fees are given directly to the National Memorial Arboretum and help to ensure it remains a free entry site.
Visiting guidelines
Accessibility - there is level access to the Visitor Centre where disabled toilet facilities are available. There are also firm level paths giving good access to much of the site.
Mobility - for less mobile visitors, wheelchairs and electric scooters are available on loan from the visitor centre. To ensure availability they should be booked in advance. We respectfully ask that a suitable donation is made for use of a manual wheelchair and charge £5.00 for a motorised scooter.
Working assistance dogs accompanying their handlers are welcome at this site.
Visitors with dogs
Visitors who wish to walks their dogs onsite should use the public footpath which follows the southern hedge line and the river.
Dogs are not allowed in the formal grounds of the Arboretum (except for working assistance dogs) or on the memorials.
The Arboretum has no dog waste bins and limited shade within the parking area for dogs left in cars.
Contact the National Arboretum:
National Memorial
Arboretum
Croxall Road
Alrewas
Staffordshire
DE13 7AR
Tel: 01283 792333
Email: info@thenma.org.uk
Download directions/map:
http://www.thenma.org.uk/visit/visitor-information/getting-here.aspx
