National Trust – Bodnant Garden

Introduction

Bodnant Garden, situated in North Wales, is an essential destination for garden lovers. Spanning 80 acres, this estate features a remarkable collection of formal gardens, woodlands, and meadows, providing a delightful experience throughout the year. With its rich heritage and stunning views of the Snowdonia mountains, Bodnant Garden is an ideal spot for families, friends, and nature enthusiasts.

History

Established by Henry Pochin, an industrial chemist, in the late 19th century, Bodnant Garden has a fascinating history. Pochin hired the renowned designer Milner, who had apprenticed under Joseph Paxton. Over the next five decades, numerous plants were gathered from famous plant hunters, transforming Bodnant Garden into a sanctuary for exotic and rare flora. In 1949, the garden became a property of the National Trust due to its unique plant life.

How to Get There

Bodnant Garden is conveniently reachable by car via the A55 expressway. Follow the brown tourist signs for easy navigation. Alternatively, you can take the Arriva Bus #25 from Llandudno or Llandudno Junction Railway station. The closest railway station is Tal-y-Cafn, located 1.6 miles from the garden.

Things to See

• Formal Gardens and Terraces: The garden features five formal Italianate terraces, designed in the Arts and Crafts style between 1904 and 1914, showcasing a variety of established rose species, particularly David Austin varieties, which bloom vibrantly from June to late September.
• Rose Garden: This fragrant garden bursts with color in summer, with manicured lawns and pathways that offer stunning views of Bodnant House and the Carneddau mountain range.
• Lily Pond and Waterfall Bridge: Located below the Rose Garden, the large lily pond reflects Bodnant House beautifully. Further down, the iconic Waterfall Bridge, constructed in the early 1900s, adds to the garden’s charm.
• Far End: Opened to the public in 2015 after extensive renovations, this area features a large lake known as the Skating Pond and a picturesque Boat House, particularly breathtaking in autumn.
• Autumn Colour: Bodnant Garden is renowned for its vibrant autumn displays, especially in the Arboretum and Acer Glade, where dazzling reds, oranges, and yellows can be seen.
• Laburnum Arch: In late May or early June, visitors can admire the stunning 55-meter long pergola walkway adorned with golden laburnum flowers.
• Woodland and Stream Walks: The garden offers scenic woodland and stream walks, making it a year-round destination. A ‘winter garden’ has also been established for year-round interest.
• National Collections: Bodnant Garden houses several National Collections, including Emborthriums and Eucryphia, as well as the largest collection of UK Champion Trees in Wales.
• Old Park and Furnace Meadow: The Old Park, dating back to the Georgian era, showcases daffodils in early spring and wildflowers in late spring and early summer. Furnace Meadow offers a tranquil spot to enjoy nature.
• Play Areas and Tea Rooms: The garden features a play park and a natural play zone with a willow maze. Visitors can enjoy refreshments at the tea-rooms or the riverside kiosk in The Dell.

Ticket Information

Adult tickets are priced at £14, while children’s tickets cost £7, with family discounts available. National Trust Members can enter for free. Tickets can be pre-booked online during the summer months, but there is always capacity for those who prefer to purchase tickets on-site.

Tips for Visiting

• Plan for a Full Day: To fully explore Bodnant Garden, it is advisable to dedicate an entire day to your visit.
• Seasonal Displays: Each season offers unique sights, such as the Magnolia Walk in early spring and the vibrant Acer Glade in autumn.
• Seasonal Events: The garden hosts various activities, including art displays, seed bomb making, storytelling sessions, and moth trapping.
• Accessibility: The garden is accessible for disabled visitors and is dog-friendly on short leads from April to September.
• Research Before Visiting: Following Storm Arwen in 2021, many champion trees were lost. Understanding the recovery efforts can enhance your visit.
• National Trust Membership: If you plan to visit multiple National Trust sites, consider becoming a member for free entry to Bodnant Garden and over 500 other locations.

By following these tips and exploring the various sections of Bodnant Garden, you are sure to have a memorable experience at this beautiful attraction in Wales.