The Secret Garden at Bodnant

Children in the stream at Bodnant during filming for The Secret Garden

For two exciting weeks in July 2018 Bodnant was transformed into a movie set; staff bound to silence about the cameras, wind turbines, drones and trailers which swept into the garden. All is set to be revealed when The Secret Garden arrives in cinemas and on Sky Cinema October 23.

The Secret Garden, a Sky Original, tells the story of Mary Lennox (Dixie Egerickx), a 10-year-old girl sent to live with her uncle Archibald Craven (Colin Firth), under the watchful eye of Mrs. Medlock (Julie Walters) with only the household maid, Martha (Isis Davis) for company. The film is set in 1940s England at Misselthwaite Manor, a remote country estate deep in the Yorkshire moors.

The Secret Garden movie 2020, filmed at Bodnant Garden, National Trust Wales
The Secret Garden movie 2020, filmed at Bodnant Garden, National Trust Wales
The Secret Garden movie 2020, filmed at Bodnant Garden, National Trust Wales

Mary begins to uncover many family secrets, particularly after chancing upon her cousin Colin (Edan Hayhurst), who has been shut away unwell in a wing of the house. Whilst exploring the grounds of the Misselthwaite Manor, Mary discovers a wonderous garden and meets a local boy Dickon (Amir Wilson) who helps her fix stray dog Hector’s injured leg using the garden’s magic. The three children adventure deep into the mysteries of the garden – a magical place that will change their lives forever.

" A magical environment like this one meant little to no acting required. I found it spellbinding and wonderfully peaceful."

Take a peek of The Secret Garden movie trailer for a preview of performances by Colin Firth, Julie Walters and Dixie Egerickx… and the other star of the film, Bodnant Garden's famous Laburnum Arch.

© 2020 Studiocanal S.A.S, All Rights Reserved

In line with Welsh Government legislation and the 'fire break' lockdown, Bodnant Garden will be temporarily closed from 24 October to 9 November to restrict the spread of coronavirus. We urge people to follow government legislation, and do not travel to, or within, Wales. We look forward to welcoming you back when we're able to.

Clapperboard for The Secret Garden

Win a Secret Garden prize with Sky 

To celebrate the release of The Secret Garden, a Sky Original film, on October 23, we’ve teamed up with our friends at Sky to give you the chance to win a Sky package, including Sky Cinema, for a whole year. So, you can enjoy watching The Secret Garden, and many more family favourites, from the comfort of your own home.

Enter the prize draw