Volunteer opportunities at Cragside

Why join us?

There are lots of reasons to join us; making the move to volunteer could be the best decision you ever make.

• Become part of a friendly and dedicated team
• Meet people from all walks of life and forge new friendships
• Utilise your existing skills and learn new ones
• Strengthen your CV and help to develop your career
• Enjoy the great outdoors
• Learn about the history of this special place.

Ways to volunteer at Cragside

Gardening volunteers

Like the sound of spending your day in the great outdoors, then becoming a Gardening volunteer may be for you. In this unique role you will help care for an grand designer garden including the terraced Victorian Formal Garden and the enormous Rock Garden that surrounds the home of William and Margaret Armstrong.

As part of a close-knit, friendly team, you'll be expected to undertake various practical roles to keep the gardens looking their best. This might involve the meditative work of weeding, chatting to visitors and helping with grass cutting. There’s something for everyone to enjoy.

'No two days are the same here in the gardens. We work in all weathers, come rain or shine, but it's always nice to take a break in the cosy Bothy and enjoy and catch up with the team.'

– Peter, Head Gardener.

Victorian Cook

Do you have a flare for baking and a passion for puddings? We're looking for Victorian Cooks to join the team. In this role you will bring Cragside's history to life and share what it was like to be a servant for William and Margaret Armstrong to visitors. The sweet smell of home-baked delights will fill the rooms of the House, as you bake using the original kitchen range and modern ovens.

This isn't an acting role, but you will wear Victorian dress. All training will be provided by the team.

House Experience Volunteer

In this volunteering role you will work alongside the House team meeting and greeting visitors as they explore the House, sharing information about Cragside's history. Cragside is Britain's original smart home, it has a pioneering past and there are lots of stories to tell.

During your volunteering shift you will be based in one of Cragside's fascinating rooms and will help support the team with the daily running of the House.

Full training will be provided, alongside plenty of information to support you in this role. In every room there is a volunteer information folder full of helpful facts and figures, and answer to regular questions from visitors.

Get in touch about volunteering at Cragside

If you would like to get involved with the work of our friendly volunteer teams at Cragside, we'd love to hear from you.

Find out more about volunteering on the National Trust volunteering website and search ‘Cragside’ to find opportunities and apply.

Thank you

Thank you to all our volunteers who give their time to support the National Trust in many different roles.