Our summer boat trips along the River Tweed are a much-loved part of the Paxton House experience, offering a unique view of the house and insight into the river’s rich history. These trips are made possible by a dedicated team of volunteers who guide and support each journey.
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.
Much of the work that keeps out outdoor spaces thriving takes place behind the scenes, carried out by a dedicated team of volunteers working alongside our Head Gardener.
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.
The Paxton House archive includes a wide range of material, from papers and books to maps and plans, offering a detailed record of the house and the Home family. Archive volunteers assist with cataloguing, organising and recording these collections, as well as supporting research for interpretation and exhibitions.
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.
The Waterwheel and Horse Gin were restored in 2018 by grant funded specialists and a group of volunteers.
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
Welcome volunteers are often the first point of contact for visitors, offering guidance and practical information to help them make the most of their time at Paxton.
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.
