Skippers
Skippers are responsible for operating the boat and leading trips along the river. Experience handling an outboard motor and inflatable dinghy is essential, along with confidence on the water and a good level of physical fitness. An interest in local history and the ability to engage with visitors will enhance the experience.
A regular commitment of at least one day per month (minimum four hours), including weekends and bank holidays, is required.
Riverside support
This role supports the smooth running of each trip from the riverbank. Volunteers help welcome visitors, assist with boarding and landing and manage the flow of passengers. No boating experience is required, though an interest in the local area and good communication skills are valuable.
A regular commitment of at least one day per month (minimum four hours), including weekends and bank holidays, is required.
Garden volunteers come together to share skills and time in a flexible way, from regular weekly involvement to occasional days each month. Working as part of a supportive team, you’ll help with the seasonal care and ongoing development of the gardens in this remarkable setting.
Alongside practical horticultural tasks in the herbaceous borders and wider grounds, volunteers also play a role in engaging with visitors and helping to propagate plants for sale in the shop. These sales help fund new plants, bulbs and equipment, while offering visitors the chance to take home healthy, locally suited plants.
This is a hands-on outdoor role that requires a reasonable level of physical fitness. A commitment of at least one day per month (minimum two hours) is required.
An interest in history and a careful, detail-focused approach are important. A commitment of at least one day per month (minimum four hours) is required.
Our dedicated Waterwheel volunteers maintain and operate the restored wheel and beam pump on regular occasions throughout the season. It demonstrates this important aspect of country house life before mains water.
An interest in history and engineering, and good communication skills are valuable.
There is no minimum commitment required to volunteer for the Waterwheel
From directions around the estate to answering general queries, this role is key to creating a positive and relaxed visitor experience. It suits those who are approachable, well-organised and confident communicators.
A commitment of at least one day per month (minimum four hours), including weekends and bank holidays, is required.
