Hands On Head Gardener

Horticulture Jobs; Moreton-in-Marsh; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation available

Historic estate setting

Job summary

Batsford Park Estate in the Cotswolds is seeking an experienced Head Gardener to take hands-on leadership of the historic garden. You will manage a small team, drive planting and propagation, and shape long‑term plans reflecting Arts and Crafts heritage with ecological approaches.

The role requires strong plant knowledge, horticultural judgement and the ability to communicate clearly with staff and contractors. A full UK driving licence is required, with accommodation available on request.

Qualifications

• Experience leading a garden team
• Strong plant knowledge across ornamental horticulture
• Clear communication and people management skills

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the garden alongside a small team
• Support and manage the grounds staff and contractors
• Plan and implement long‑term improvements for an historic estate garden
• Oversee ecological and nature‑based approaches to garden management

Skills

Plant knowledge

Team leadership

Communication

Education

RHS Level 3 Horticultural Qualification

Job description

Following a recent generational change, the owners of Batsford Park https://batsfordestate.co.uk/ are looking for an experienced and hands on Head Gardener. They should have an excellent plant knowledge, be personable and communicate clearly, with the ability to manage and support our team, whilst taking the reins of an exciting, long-term commitment to evolve the garden. Set within a beautiful landscape overlooking the nearby arboretum, the garden has a strong Arts and Crafts heritage, which the owners are keen to rediscover and reinterpret in a way that feels relevant and contemporary. This is an excellent opportunity for a creative and knowledgeable horticulturist with a flair for design to have genuine influence over the garden’s future. The owners are also keen to explore more ecological and nature-based approaches to garden management.

The historic garden is set within an exquisite historic parkland with a large lake. The garden has various features including rock work, a formal area including roses which could be an immediate project, and a walled productive garden including a large Hartley Botanics glasshouse, divided into three independently controllable zones. A polytunnel and cuttings garden are planned for the near future to support the supply of fresh flowers and plants for the house.

The successful candidate will lead and develop the garden alongside a team comprising one full-time groundsman, one part-time groundsman and one part-time gardener. The team is supported by specialist contractors as required, providing additional assistance when needed. This role would suit an experienced Head Gardener, or presents an opportunity for someone with strong plant knowledge, horticultural judgement and the enthusiasm to take ownership and shape our garden over the long term.

Candidates should ideally have a RHS level 3 horticultural qualification (or equivalent), have a passion for plants and their use, as well as experience of productive growing, propagation, planning and scheduling. You will also require a full UK driving licence. Previous experience of working at a private historic estate would be desirable.

Salary negotiable / accomodation available Salary Circa £35k - £40k Salary will reflect experience and whether accommodation (available) is required.

Closing date Sunday 8th November