May half term: Journey back to 1945 at the National Memorial Arboretum

This May half term (26 May – 30 May), the National Memorial Arboretum, in Staffordshire, is inviting families to journey back to 1945 and explore the stories of those who lived and served 80 years ago. With an array of free, 1945-themed activities as part of the Arboretum’s year-long programme: The Year Was 1945…, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The Year Was 1945… Self-Led Trail (Free, 10am – 4pm)

Visitors are encouraged to venture out into the Arboretum’s colourful spring grounds – 150-acres of gardens and woodlands – to discover just some of the memorials with links to the Second World War.  At each memorial location, families are challenged to solve a clue to help them reveal a hidden word.

Outdoor Assault Course (Free, 26 – 30 May, 10am – 4pm)

In the spirit of 1945, the Arboretum is offering families the chance to join costumed performers and complete an assault course to see if they’re fit enough to join the Home Guard, whilst discovering more about the important role the Home Guard and Air Raid Precautions Wardens played in the war effort on the home front.

Arts and Crafts Sessions (Free, 26 – 30 May, 12pm – 3pm)

Younger visitors can tap into their creative side and join in on the fun, with 1945-inspired arts and crafts sessions

VE Day Street Party at Cherry Tree Road (Free, Daily until 16 November, 10am – 5pm)

Discover what street parties in 1945 were really like with a journey to Cherry Tree Road. In this immersive exhibition, visitors will travel back in time to 8 May 1945, where Mr and Mrs Ball and the other residents of Cherry Tree Road are getting ready to celebrate VE Day.

They say that an army marches on its stomach, and after a morning exploring, visitors can pick up wartime-inspired treats in the Restaurant, including Woolton Pie, traditional fish and chips, and sweet delicacies like afternoon tea.

Outdoor Play Areas (Free, Daily throughout 2025, 10am – 4pm)

Alongside the half-term programme, families can also visit the Arboretum’s two children’s play areas which are available every day.

Rachel Smith, Head of Learning and Participation, said: “Whether your family is interested in discovering new stories, getting creative during free arts and crafts sessions, or simply exploring in nature, the Arboretum’s free half term activities will help families forge new memories whilst opening a window in time, helping visitors of all ages to remember and reflect upon those who served our Nation 80 years ago.”

For more information about the 1945-themed activities at the Arboretum this May half term, visit: https://www.thenma.org.uk/what’s-on/events/may-half-term#page-content