Senior Gardener

Job Title: Senior Gardener - Formal & Kitchen Gardens
Location: Doddington Hall & Gardens, Lincolnshire
Reporting to: Head of Retail & Heritage

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Senior Gardener to lead the care, development and presentation of the formal gardens at Doddington Hall, including the Kitchen Garden. This is a hands on role requiring strong horticultural knowledge, attention to detail and a passion for maintaining gardens to an exceptional standard for visitors.

The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring that the gardens remain a central part of the visitor experience, reflecting both historical integrity and seasonal beauty.

Key Responsibilities Garden Management & Maintenance

• Oversee the day to day management of the formal gardens and Kitchen Garden
• Maintain high horticultural standards across lawns, borders, hedging, topiary and ornamental planting
• Support the Kitchen Gardener with crop planning, production and maintenance.

Team Leadership

• Supervise and support gardening staff and volunteers.
• Lead by example with a hands on approach to all horticultural tasks
• Assist with training and development of team members

Planning & Development

• Contribute to the ongoing development and enhancement of the gardens
• Work closely with the owner of the Hall on future garden projects and long term plans
• Ensure planting and maintenance align with the estate's heritage and visitor offer

Visitor Experience

• Ensure the gardens are presented to the highest standard at all times
• Engage positively with visitors when required, sharing knowledge and enthusiasm
• Support events held within the gardens, including set up and maintenance before, during and after

Sustainability & Estate Integration

• Promote sustainable gardening practices, including composting, soil health and biodiversity
• Work collaboratively with other departments, particularly retail and catering, where produce from the Kitchen Garden is utilised

Person Specification Essential:

• Proven experience in a senior or supervisory gardening role
• Strong horticultural knowledge, particularly in formal garden maintenance and kitchen gardening
• Excellent plant knowledge, including seasonal planting and crop rotation
• Ability to lead and motivate a small team
• A proactive, organised and hands on approach
• Good communication skills

Desirable:

• Relevant horticultural qualification (e.g. RHS Level 2 or above)
• Experience working in a historic garden or visitor attraction

Interest in heritage landscapes and traditional gardening techniques

Summary

This is an exciting opportunity for a dedicated horticulturist to take a leading role in the stewardship of the gardens at Doddington Hall. The Senior Gardener will help ensure that the gardens continue to inspire visitors while supporting the wider estate's vision of heritage, sustainability and excellence.

This private advert is being managed directly by the employer. English Country Gardeners are not involved in the hiring process and are therefore unable to share any additional information on this role. If you have any questions regarding this position, the best course of action is to apply for the job which will open a line of communication with the employer.