The National Memorial Arboretum is a very interesting place to visit. It lies in quite a large area, so you may find that one visit is not enough. There really is so much to see! I have been several times, and any time of year is good. It is so different through the seasons, from Spring blossoms and Daffodils to Summer Poppies to Autumn colours. There are land trains, and guided talks etc which go into great detail to explain various exhibits. I found these quite fascinating! It is mainly on the flat, with decent paths all round. Wheelchair friendly too, as you can imagine it was built with Veterans in mind. Not just a Memorial to the armed forces, but to anyone involved doing their bit during conflicts, (Police, NHS, Coal Miners, Railwaymen etc) and also to victims of terrorism. There is a "Twin Towers" Memorial here. The wall at the main monument is quite a sobering sight. All the names of members of the armed forces who have lost their lives since World War 2. There's usually plenty of volunteers about who will happily answer any questions. Entry is free, but you must pay for parking. This is cheaper if you book online through the website. It is dog friendly, although dogs are restricted from certain areas (Main Monument and wall etc).

Nice short walk to the bird hide. There's a stony path that leads to the bird hide that runs alongside the lake. The path has a few big, deep puddles that usually don't stop you from walking. But they're likely to flood in heavy rain. The lake is home to a variety of birds, including some winter visitors such as fieldfares. Some of the other birds that can be found there are Comman pochard, grey herons, teals, and Canada geese. The car park has been damaged by heavy rain, leaving a deep scar on one side. Please be careful. There is a picnic bench next to the car park where you can see most of the lake.

Absolutely amazing food... Has got to be one of the best meals we have had. We went to the Tuesday Banquet nite. Unbelievable price... Great food cooked fresh and plenty of it. We have visited twice and also had a takeaway. Thank you for a fabulous experience ✨️ We will be back !

I recently visited Barton Marina, and it was such a great experience! The place has a really unique vibe – a mix of tranquility by the water and a lively atmosphere with so much going on. I went there to catch a movie at the Red Carpet Cinema, which was cozy and had such a welcoming feel. It’s not your average cinema – the seating is super comfortable, and it feels more personal, like a hidden gem for movie lovers. The marina itself is stunning, with boats gently swaying in the water and a peaceful, scenic walking area. Even if you’re just there for food and the cinema, you can’t help but soak in the beauty of the surroundings. It’s definitely a place I’d recommend for a chilled-out day or evening – great for entertainment, good food, and just enjoying the atmosphere.

We came yesterday for breakfast and sat in the room with the doors open that led you right out to the water. Gorgeous room. Anyway, staff were nice and doing a good job. REAL shame some middle aged couple (specifically the lady) had to bellow her voice across the room at the waitress (and I believe the manager) about how utterly COLD her breakfast was. Anyone would think the front of house staff were responsible for the temp of the dish rather than the kitchen staff! The staff attempted to rectify the situation but nevertheless it wasn’t good enough for the queen…sorry I mean middle aged lady. My breakfast however came out delightfully hot! I do wish the vibe hadn’t been ruined by that lady, I mean how can you sit yourself parallel to an open set of doors with a natural draft coming in and expect your food to still be steaming hot…honestly! We did have a slightly longer wait than necessary but with the storm kicking up over their breakfast I wasn’t shocked. We love coming whenever we don’t have the kids!

I recently visited this charming venue in Barton-under-Needwood and had an unforgettable evening. The cinema offered a cozy and intimate setting to watch a movie, enhancing the overall experience. After the film, I indulged in a delightful meal at their café bar. The steak was perfectly cooked, tender, and flavorful, while the fish and chips were crispy and fresh, a true classic done right. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with excellent service that made the visit even more special. It’s a place I would highly recommend for anyone looking to combine great food with a relaxing cinematic experience. Whether for a casual night out or a special occasion, The Red Carpet Cinema & Café Bar is a hidden gem worth visiting.

Outstanding art gallery in a delightful location. If you're a fan of quality original art then a visit to this gallery should be a priority. The staff are very welcoming and happy to share insights and perspectives. In addition they also host well known artists from time to time. Recommend a visit.