Bodnant Garden
An 80-acre horticultural gem in North Wales, famed for its global plant collections and the iconic Laburnum Arch.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Laburnum Arch & roses in bloom
Bodnant Garden
Best Time
Laburnum Arch & roses in bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 80-acre horticultural gem in North Wales, famed for its global plant collections and the iconic Laburnum Arch.
"One of the loveliest gardens in Wales, with spectacular design and amazing old trees."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Essential for the Laburnum Arch season to secure parking & entry.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
80 acres of hills & paths mean comfy footwear is a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Laburnum Arch
Near the entrance
A breathtaking 55-meter tunnel of golden blooms, a must-see in late spring.
Italianate Terraces
Upper garden
Spectacular formal terraces offering stunning views and vibrant rose displays.
The Dell and Water Gardens
Lower garden
A tranquil, shaded area with a meandering river, waterfalls, and ancient trees.
Redwood Grove
Arboretum
Towering redwood trees create a sense of awe and an ancient forest atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Blooms
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Essential for the Laburnum Arch season to secure parking & entry.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
80 acres of hills & paths mean comfy footwear is a must!
📸 Photographers' Paradise
Instagrammable spots abound for stunning shots.
☕ Tea Room Delights
Enjoy a lovely breakfast or lunch at the cafe.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Essential for the Laburnum Arch season to secure parking & entry.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
80 acres of hills & paths mean comfy footwear is a must!
📸 Photographers' Paradise
Instagrammable spots abound for stunning shots.
☕ Tea Room Delights
Enjoy a lovely breakfast or lunch at the cafe.
🗺️ Use the Colored Trails
Helpful for navigating the extensive gardens.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bodnant Garden for its stunning beauty, meticulous upkeep, and diverse landscapes, from formal terraces to wild dells. The Laburnum Arch is a standout highlight, though its popularity means booking ahead is crucial. Some note the hilly terrain, making comfortable shoes essential for exploring the extensive grounds.
"A really nice landscape. The gardens are really well kept and lovely buildings and outhouses kept in the woods and along the river. We spent a good few hours here wondering around the multiple paths. Highlight recommend going. The bonuses is the free entry if you're already national trust members.
Lovely breakfast in the tea room 😋"
Tom Jackson
"Fantastic place! So much to see, absolutely beautiful gardens, good facilities and plenty of space for picnics, the ponds and water falls are stunning, the scenery are breathtaking. There is also a well stocked up gift shop and a lovely cafe. Would highly recommend and love to visit again. Thank you 😊"
Karen Griffith
"Beautiful gardens, I really enjoyed my visit. I found the coloured trails very useful to follow. There are also a few places to eat and drink, a garden centre and some gift shops to visit. The site is quite hilly so bear that in mind if anyone has mobility issues."
Jan Nunn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bodnant Garden is located in North Wales. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available (though booking is recommended during peak times). Public transport options include buses from nearby towns like Llandudno and Colwyn Bay.
Yes, there is parking available at Bodnant Garden. However, during peak seasons, especially when the Laburnum Arch is in bloom, parking is limited and booking your entry slot in advance is highly recommended to secure a space.
While driving is the most convenient, you can reach Bodnant Garden via public transport. Local bus services connect to nearby towns, and from there, you might need a taxi or a short walk to the garden entrance. Check local bus timetables for routes from Llandudno or Colwyn Bay.
Bodnant Garden has varied terrain, and some areas can be hilly or have steps. While many paths are accessible, it's advisable to check the National Trust website for detailed accessibility information or call ahead to discuss specific needs.
The nearest train stations are in Llandudno Junction and Colwyn Bay. From these stations, you would typically need to take a bus or a taxi to reach Bodnant Garden.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary, but National Trust members get free entry. It's always best to check the official Bodnant Garden website for the most up-to-date pricing and to book tickets in advance, especially during popular blooming seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, particularly during the peak blooming periods like the Laburnum Arch season, to guarantee entry and parking.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the Bodnant Garden National Trust website for the most current opening times before your visit.
Yes, you can purchase tickets for Bodnant Garden even if you are not a National Trust member. However, membership offers free entry to Bodnant and many other National Trust properties.
National Trust members receive free entry. Keep an eye on the Bodnant Garden website for any special offers or group discounts that might be available.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! Bodnant Garden is a photographer's dream with its diverse landscapes, vibrant flowers, and stunning architectural features. The Laburnum Arch, Italianate Terraces, and Redwood Grove are particularly popular subjects.
The Laburnum Arch, the Rose Terraces, the Italianate Terraces, the Dell with its water features, and the towering Redwood Grove are all incredibly photogenic. Every corner offers a new, beautiful perspective.
Generally, tripods are permitted for personal photography, but it's always a good idea to check the National Trust's specific guidelines for Bodnant Garden regarding equipment to ensure you comply with their policies.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow. This also helps avoid the midday crowds.
Drone usage is typically restricted at National Trust properties to protect wildlife and the visitor experience. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise on their website.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Explore 80 acres of diverse gardens, including the famous Laburnum Arch, Italianate Terraces, The Dell, and a Redwood Grove. Enjoy walking paths, water features, and abundant plant collections.
Yes, Bodnant Garden has a varied terrain with some hilly sections, particularly as you explore The Dell and other lower areas. Visitors with mobility issues should be aware of this.
Yes, there is a cafe and a tea room offering refreshments, light meals, and often a lovely breakfast. There are also designated areas for picnics.
Picnicking is generally welcomed at Bodnant Garden. There are designated areas, and it's a great way to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Yes, there is a well-stocked gift shop where you can find souvenirs, gardening items, and local crafts.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the terrain can be hilly in parts, many areas are accessible for strollers. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery. The garden centre and gift shop also offer items that might appeal to children. Remember to check for any specific family events or trails that might be running during your visit.
🚶♀️ Mobility-Conscious Visitors
Focus on exploring the more accessible areas like the Italianate Terraces and the upper garden paths. The cafe and gift shop are generally accessible. Consider visiting during quieter times to allow for a more relaxed pace and easier navigation.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles and lighting. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light, creating a magical ambiance. Don't overlook the smaller details – the intricate patterns of flowers, the textures of bark, and the local wildlife can all make for compelling photographs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Evolution of Bodnant Garden
The garden's design is a testament to their vision, featuring distinct areas like the formal Italianate Terraces, the wilder, shaded Dell, and the impressive arboretum. The dedication of the gardeners and curators has ensured that Bodnant remains a living legacy, meticulously preserved while embracing innovation. Visitors can explore this evolution through the carefully maintained landscapes and the stories embedded within the plants themselves.
Today, Bodnant Garden is managed by the National Trust, ensuring its preservation for future generations. It continues to inspire visitors with its beauty, offering a glimpse into the history of garden design and the enduring power of nature. The ongoing work by the gardening team ensures that the garden is always at its best, showcasing seasonal highlights and rare botanical specimens.
Seasonal Spectacles: What to Expect
Spring also brings a riot of color with rhododendrons and azaleas in bloom, particularly in the Dell and surrounding areas. As summer arrives, the Rose Terraces come alive with a stunning array of fragrant roses, offering a more formal and elegant experience. The Italianate Terraces provide a picturesque backdrop for these blooms.
Autumn transforms Bodnant into a canvas of warm hues, with vibrant foliage creating a magical atmosphere. The garden's diverse tree collection ensures a spectacular display of reds, oranges, and yellows. Even in winter, the garden retains its structural beauty, with evergreen plants and the stark elegance of bare branches offering a peaceful retreat.
Photography Tips for Bodnant Garden
Explore The Dell for atmospheric shots of the water features, moss-covered stones, and ancient trees. The towering Redwood Grove offers a sense of scale and grandeur, perfect for capturing the majesty of nature. Don't forget to look for smaller details – intricate flower patterns, dew drops on leaves, and the abundant wildlife, including ducks and frogs, can make for captivating close-ups.
To get the best light and avoid crowds, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Golden hour can create a beautiful, soft glow over the gardens. Consider visiting during different seasons to capture the garden's ever-changing beauty, from spring blossoms to autumn colors.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit