The garden is in two parts. The upper part around the house consists of the Terrace Gardens as well as informal lawns shaded by trees. The lower portion, known as 'The Dell', is formed by the valley of the River Hiraethlyn, a tributary of the Conwy, and contains the Pinetum and wild Garden.

In March and April masses of daffodils and other spring bulbs make a very colourful display.

Pride of place amongst the shrubs is held by rhododendrons, magnolias and camellias - many of which were raised at Bodnant - which are in bloom from March until the end of June.
The famous Laburnum Arch is at its best at the end of May and at the beginning of June. The 'Chilean Fire Bush' Embothrium coccineum 'Norquinco' and many of the azaleas also provide a mass of colour during these months.

In the summer months the Terrace Gardens are very colourful, with herbaceous borders, roses, water lilies, clematis and many unusual wall shrubs and climbers.

In August and September, eucryphias and hydrangeas are a special feature, and later many of the autumn berrying trees and shrubs. An October visit is very worthwhile to see the splendid autumn colours. The vast collection of plants in the garden ensures colour and interest at all times.

The garden was presented to the National Trust by Henry Duncan, Second Baron Aberconway in 1949, and is managed on the Trust's behalf by the present Lord Aberconway and Martin Puddle.