A rare opportunity to leave your mark on an inspirational garden in the Lake District
Join our team at Higham Hall, a stunning Grade II listed neo-Gothic manor house set in 6 acres of landscaped gardens overlooking Bassenthwaite Lake. We're seeking an experienced, passionate gardener to help shape the future of our unique educational environment.
About Higham Hall Higham Hall is a charitable trust providing creative development and lifelong learning through short residential courses in the English Lake District. Built in 1828, our historic manor house welcomes over 3,000 students annually to our tranquil, rural location with expansive views of the northern Lake District Fells.
About the Gardens Our 6-acre site features established woodland with specimen trees, a natural stream-fed pond, a newly created meadow and the remains of a kitchen garden. This is a garden with tremendous potential, ready for someone with vision and passion to develop it into something truly special as both an educational resource and inspiring setting, making the most of our natural and cultural heritage.
The Opportunity This is more than just a gardening role - it's a chance to create a legacy. Working closely with our Principal, you'll develop and implement a new vision for the grounds that:
* Enhances habitats for both wildlife and people
* Embeds sustainability and biodiversity principles
* Creates a unique learning environment
* Welcomes day visitors to learn from and enjoy our outdoor spaces
What We're Looking For
* Strong horticultural knowledge and practical experience
* Passion for sustainability and biodiversity
* Ability to work independently and manage your own workload
* Interest in public engagement and educational opportunities
* Vision for developing gardens that work with nature
* Enthusiasm for this special place and our educational mission
What We Offer
* 30 hours per week (0.8 FTE)
* Competitive salary (see full details below)
* Opportunity to play a strategic role in shaping the garden as part of an integrated, creative, educational environment
* Specialist training provided (including chainsaw licence)
* Beautiful working environment in the heart of the Lake District
* Supportive team environment with volunteer support
* Meaningful work within an educational charity
For more information and a detailed job description visit
Location: Higham Hall, Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria CA13 9SH
Application: Please send your CV and covering letter explaining your interest in this role and relevant experience in relation to the detailed job description.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: £22,400.00-£25,600.00 per year
Expected hours: 30 per week
Benefits:
* Additional leave
* Company pension
* Cycle to work scheme
* Discounted or free food
* Employee discount
* Flexitime
* Free parking
* Sick pay
Ability to commute/relocate:
* Cockermouth CA13 9SH: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:
* practical gardening: 3 years (preferred)
Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 06/10/2025