Head / Sole Gardener

Sole/ Head Gardener

Shirburn Lodge, south Oxfordshire.

The beautiful garden has been created to a design by Tom Stuart-Smith and supports the owners very comprehensive renovation of the early Georgian and Regency House.

The house and garden together provide a beautiful home for the owner’s family who have been closely involved in creating a place which responds to the past yet is modern and relevant for today – and such is the garden. Great attention to detail has been the key to the standard achieved and will be a key on going requirement of the garden’s maintenance and presentation.

The garden and grounds (23acres in total) sit high in the Chiltern Hills and benefit further from the surrounding natural landscape. Toms planting largely sits within the historic walled garden; within a semi-formal structure the planting is soft and naturalistic and composed of exquisite perennial planting and shrubs which punctuate and interrupt the design to provide interest throughout the year.

There is a glasshouse and there are elements of a range of interests including a small productive and cuttings area, woodland and arboriculture, wildflowers, and container planting. Some occasional support of security and essential tasks may be required to provide occasional cover in what is a small property team. The owners are regularly in residence and have a passionate interest in the garden which they may occasionally open for charitable purposes.

This is a hands on role. The Sole / Head Gardener will be involved in making some further refinement such as the developing the back of house, productive and cuttings areas. Further evolution is possible.

The role is currently a sole position, but additional support will be provided as required.

The salary level of £35,000 - £38,000 dependent upon experience. Accommodation is not provided.