Gardener - Garden Assistant

Thornbury Castle; Bradford; On-site; GBP 14,000 - 21,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

28 days holiday

Birthday day off

Complimentary stay after probation

Training programs

Staff and family rates

Recognition programmes

Uniform and meals provided

Free parking

Weekend flexibility

Part-time role

Job summary

Relais & Châteaux at Thornbury Castle is seeking a Gardener to join our 5-star hotel team. The role lives in 15 acres of grounds, with a practical, hands-on approach to garden maintenance and development.

You will work under the Head Gardener, ensuring high horticultural standards and safe practices while enjoying a luxury hotel environment.

Qualifications

• At least Level 3 in Horticulture or equivalent experience and knowledge.
• Practical knowledge of plants, tools, materials and use of general garden machinery.
• Knowledge and experience of petrol machinery.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Head of Gardens to establish, maintain and manage the historically listed gardens to high standards.
• Lead the garden team effectively and professionally under supervision.
• Manage day-to-day maintenance: lawn care, hedge-cutting, pruning, weeding, planting and related tasks.
• Develop the kitchen garden and continue garden improvements.
• Ensure safe working practices and health & safety compliance.
• Occasionally deputise for the Head of Gardens in meetings and oversee external contractors.

Skills

Gardening basics

Teamwork

Reliability

Attention to detail

Education

Level 3 Horticulture

Tools

Garden machinery

Petrol machinery

Job description

Company Description

Relais & Châteaux at Thornbury Castle is seeking a Gardener to join our hardworking and professional 5-star hotel team. Set within 15 acres of beautiful grounds, our unique Tudor Castle offers a special environment where gardens, lawns, landscaped areas and outdoor spaces play an important part in the guest experience.

Working under the direction of the Head Gardener, the successful candidate will assist with the day-to-day upkeep and presentation of the Castle grounds, helping to maintain a clean, safe and welcoming environment for our guests and team members.

This is a practical, hands-on role suited to someone who enjoys working outdoors, takes pride in their work and is willing to turn their hand to a variety of basic gardening and general maintenance tasks. The role requires a flexible approach, a good work ethic, attention to detail and the ability to follow instructions while using initiative when required.

Job Description

• Assist the Head of Gardens to establish, maintain, and manage the historically listed gardens to the highest horticultural standards
• Assist the Head of Gardens to lead the garden team effectively and professionally
• Assist the Head of Gardens to manage the day-to-day maintenance of the garden: lawn care, hedge-cutting, pruning, weeding, planting and all associated garden tasks
• Assist the Head of Gardens to maintain and develop the kitchen garden
• Take ownership of safe working practices within the estate, including Health & Safety
• Assist the Head of Gardens with the continuous development of the Gardens, including the kitchen garden, herbaceous garden and ornamental garden
• Take responsibility in the absence of the Head Gardener
• Deputise for the Head of Gardens in meetings if required
• Assist the Head of Gardens in overseeing external contractors
• A genuine interest in gardening, plants and outdoor work.
• Basic gardening or groundskeeping experience, although willingness to learn and develop skills is equally important.
• A practical, hands‑on approach and willingness to undertake a variety of routine tasks.
• Reliability, punctuality and a positive attitude.
• Good attention to detail and pride in maintaining high standards.
• The ability to follow instructions and work safely.
• The ability to work independently on allocated tasks and as part of a team.
• Flexibility to assist with basic maintenance duties when required.
• The ability to undertake practical outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
• A professional, considerate approach in a luxury hotel environment.

Qualifications

• At least Level 3 in Horticultureor equivalent experience and knowledge
• Practical knowledge of plants, tools, materials and use of general garden machinery
• Knowledge and experience of petrol machinery

Additional Information

• 28 days' holiday, including bank holidays
• An additional paid day off on your birthday
• Complimentary stay at the Castle after 3 months’ probation period successfully passed
• Training programs via internal & external professionals and access to online training facilities
• Staff and family rates on hotel accommodation and discounts on food and beverage
• Recognition programmes
• Uniform and meals provided whilst on duty and free parking
• Flexibility to work on weekends when required.
• Part-time role with the future possibility to be full-time
• £12.71/hour