Volunteer with us

As an established charitable trust since 1977, our volunteers have worked at the gardens for a number of years, bringing new skills and energy to the gardens. Join the community of volunteers that help us to preserve the gardens for future generations.

You’re sure to find something for you in our diverse volunteer roles. There are opportunities across many areas of the gardens including:

  • Working with our team of horticulturalists as a Horticulturist Volunteer
  • Supporting educational workshops as an Outdoor Education Volunteer
  • Helping and supporting our Visitor Services as a Volunteer Garden Ambassador or Volunteer Buggy Driver
  • Helping with events both on and off site as a Volunteer Steward
  • Helping to keep the gardens clean and tidy as a Volunteer Litter Picker
  • Supporting our Maintenance team as a Volunteer Carpenter
  • Capturing the gardens looking their best with our photographers as a Volunteer Photographer
Most of our volunteering opportunities are released twice per year, in January and July with an application form to apply by. Informal discussions will be held with shortlisted applicants. Not all the roles listed above will be released. Please keep an eye on our website for available roles.

How would you benefit?

Volunteering can be a brilliant way to meet new people and make lasting friendships, and we welcome people with a variety of skillsets.

Most of our volunteers prefer to work in a group, although some tasks are more suitable for lone workers within a team.

We would like volunteers to work on a regular basis but remain flexible about how many hours each volunteer can offer; we do suggest a firm commitment of at least 3 hours per session.

  • A chance to work with the highly skilled staff at the Gardens, giving you the opportunity to share knowledge with people who also enjoy your love of plants
  • Volunteering can also be beneficial to your general well-being
  • You will have an opportunity to attend volunteer workshops free of charge, practical gardening training sessions, lectures or discussion groups
  • You will be able to meet and make friends with fellow volunteers through social events including visits other renowned gardens
  • After completing 6 months, you will be given a special annual Volunteer Card which entitles you to free entry to the Gardens for you, plus guest passes for friends/family to visit with you up to 3 times per year.

Meet some of our current volunteers