The Laburnum Arch, a 55 metre-long avenue of golden flowers, was created by the garden’s Victorian founder Henry Pochin in 1880. He employed Edward Milner, apprentice to Joseph Paxton, to help design the formal garden around Bodnant Hall, including a Laburnum Arch based on pergola walkways of the 16th and 17th centuries. It is believed to be the longest and oldest in Britain.
More than 140 years later, the floral display is the most visited, photographed and anticipated event of Bodnant Garden’s year, drawing around 50,000 visitors for three weeks at the end of May and beginning of June.
We will also be making a short stop in Betws Y Coed for some free time.
Betws-y-Coed offers a compact mix of scenery, easy walks, and local charm. You can stroll through the village, cross the historic bridges, and enjoy riverside paths before heading to nearby highlights like Swallow Falls or Fairy Glen. With cafés, small shops, and short woodland trails all within easy reach, it’s a relaxing yet scenic stop that gives a great taste of Snowdonia without needing a long hike or overnight stay.