Head Gardener

Head Gardener for Lilburn Tower, Nr Alnwick, Northumberland.

The Davidson family at Lilburn Tower are planning the succession of David Sinclair, who after 35 years as Head Gardener, will retire in January.

The garden sits comfortably within 17,000 acres of beautiful lowland estate and connects wonderfully with its wider designed landscape. The parkland and gardens contain a collection of important trees and plant material. They have been extensively improved by both David and the owners; they include a wide range of horticultural aspects including manicured lawns and wild meadows, formal and more relaxed areas, perennial borders, seasonal planting, roses, shrubs, and hedges. A large range of traditional glass includes peaches, nectarines and RHS award winning grapes which reflect the horticultural ability of the head gardener and their team.

It is a beautiful and private garden within a beautiful setting and reflects a very special sense of place. The garden is open under the National Gardens Scheme and for other occasional openings to support charity.

The garden will soon transfer to the next generation of the family who are equally committed to continuing with the garden and estates ongoing improvement.

A good salary of £35,000 plus cottage (rent free) on site.

Essential skills

A demonstratable level of training (ideally a minimum of RHS level 3) and appropriate responsibility, with at least some experience of private service will be required. Suitable candidates will have excellent communication skills, an excellent plant knowledge and a creative flair.