We have an incredible opportunity for a permanent part time Gardener here at Wray Castle.

As the Gardener here, you’ll be part of the wider Wray team and you’ll report to the Senior Gardener who is based at nearby Hill Top. Part of your role will be spent working with him at both sites. As a hands-on gardener, you’ll be responsible for making sure that the gardens are maintained to a high standard.  

This role is based on 1170 annualised hours, where the amount of hours you work each month may vary, however your salary will be paid in 12 equal instalments over the year. This role will usually be worked over three days per week. 

What it's like to work here
The incredible grounds at Wray Castle open up to views over the fells

James Dawson, a wealthy surgeon of Liverpool, and his wife Margaret, began to build Wray Castle as a retreat from the smoke and noise of the city. The acquisition of a valuable and extensive piece of lakeshore made it possible for the Dawsons to lay out gardens and sweeping parklands in which to set their house. Wray survives as a complete design: an imaginary baronial estate, with a castle at its centre. St Margaret’s Church was added in 1856, and below the park, a home farm was built, with livestock grazing in fields fenced with fine iron railings or distinctive castellated slate walls. Like many Victorian Lakeland villas, Wray Castle has a collection of giant exotic fir trees which signal the presence of the house from a distance.

What you'll be doing
You’ll be passionate and knowledgeable about the varied plants within the garden. The role will include a range of practical horticultural tasks to develop, enhance and conserve the garden and contribute to the delivery of projects. You'll be undertaking general maintenance of the garden, such as mowing, mulching, pruning, leaf clearing and weeding. You will, on occasion, be required to act as Duty Officer to coordinate the evacuation of the building in the event of an emergency.  Wray Castle can be very busy at times and you’ll be expected to interact with the public on a daily basis, answering their many questions about the garden, the castle and the Lake District in general. You’ll be required to help out with garden tours and events when needed. You'll be happy working with volunteer groups and individuals from varied backgrounds. You may also be needed to help with occasional non-gardening tasks.

Please also read the full role profile attached to this advert
Who we're looking for
To be successful in this role you should be able to demonstrate the below:

Previous practical gardening/horticulture experience, as well as some knowledge of plants and horticultural techniques.
Familiarity with machinery/equipment and accompanying practical certificates.
Knowledge of Health and Safety compliance requirements.
Excellent customer service.
Willingness and enthusiasm to share the history of the garden with visitors, bringing it to life.
Commitment for what you are doing, always remaining proud of your work
You’ll have an NVQ 1-2 in Amenity Horticulture (or equivalent).