War memorials

About war memorials

War memorials honour those who have given their lives to secure peace. They act as a reminder to subsequent generations that we should never forget their ultimate sacrifice.

After the end of World War I, memorials were put up across the country. Sometimes the names of those who fell in World War II and following conflicts were added to these existing memorials. In other cases, new memorials were created to honour later casualties.

War memorials can include any monument created for those involved or affected by a conflict. The most common and obvious form of memorial is the sculpture or cross, but they can also take the form of plaques, furniture, rolls of honour, gardens, trees or buildings. Memorials usually have architectural or artistic interest and are significant landmarks.

Across the country, services are held and wreaths are laid each year on Armistice Day. This is in memory of those who gave their lives in the 2 World Wars and the many other conflicts our nation has been involved in.