Levens Hall dates back to the13th century when the original pele tower was constructed. The hall was extensively developed in the 16th century into the Elizabethan residence that remains today. At the gateway to the Lake District, it is one of Cumbria’s most popular attractions welcoming around 50,000 visitors per year.
The historic garden was laid out in 1694 and includes some of the oldest and most striking topiary in the world, regularly featuring in the national press and television programmes. Topiary and the formal bedding displays beneath are only a part of the 10 acre garden. Elsewhere lie herbaceous borders, wall borders, a fountain garden, orchard, nuttery, vegetables, herbs, a wilderness and
much more…
Our current Head Gardener will retire in late 2026 after 40 years in the role. We are therefore looking for a successor to lead a small team of gardeners and volunteers in maintaining and developing this significant garden for future decades.
The candidate will be a skilled professional with proven leadership capability as well as a ‘hands on’ approach. Experience with Topiary will be a benefit but we are also looking for someone with a vision for the future and the enthusiasm to develop the garden further.
Key Responsibilities
· Maintaining and developing the historic gardens of Levens Hall to an agreed plan with the proprietor.
· Manage the Gardening team, including existing staff, volunteers and the recruitment of new staff where necessary.
· Lead on the procurement of plants, garden equipment and services in order to maintain and develop the gardens at the most competitive rates.
· Assess the training needs and requirements of members of the gardening team to ensure necessary skills are maintained and developed
· Advising and assisting with the upkeep of Levens Deer Park.
· Manage the purchase of garden plants for sale in the Gift Shop and ensure that existing stock is maintained to a good, saleable standard.
· Assist in providing a first class visitor experience including structured tours of the gardens.
· Maintaining good relations with colleagues across the estate.
· Participating in press interviews, television programs and articles, and any filming activities in connection with Levens Hall and Gardens.
· Assisting with events where the gardens and wider grounds are involved.
A competitive salary is offered, with on–site accommodation within the grounds also provided.
Please apply with your CV to mark@levenshall.co.uk
Levens Hall, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 0PD