Head Gardener – Vacancy

Couples role of Head Gardener & Under-gardener/Housekeeper could be considered.

An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Head Gardener on a 600 acre privately-owned estate near Downham Market, Norfolk. The position includes some additional Estate Management responsibilities.

The gardens comprise approximately 2 acres of formal gardens and lawns surrounding the main house, and a further 3 acres of wooded parkland. Within the garden area is a grade II listed sunken formal garden, a walled kitchen garden growing primarily flowers but with a variety of fresh produce, a rose garden and a pool garden.

The gardens are set within a wider estate of arable fields, woodland, fishing lakes and grass paddocks used for horse livery.

The Head Gardener will be hands on and responsible for the day-to-day maintenance of all aspects of the garden. Key responsibilities will include planting, lawn maintenance, pruning, hedge-trimming, weeding, watering, upkeep of driveways and maintenance of garden machinery. On the wider Estate they will be involved with some woodland maintenance (albeit any larger arboricultural work will be completed by an external contractor), assisting with general repairs (including fences), track maintenance, tree planting, and topping of conservation areas. In addition the role will require liaising with tenants, contractors and horse liveries from time to time.

Tractor experience, PA1/PA6 spraying qualifications and a basic chainsaw qualification will be beneficial. However if necessary, training and qualifications for these can be provided once in position. Strong horticultural knowledge and practical skills, and experience of working in diverse gardens is essential. Applicants must demonstrate attention to detail, organisation, good communication skills, enthusiasm and adaptability.

The position includes a two-bedroom cottage with its own small garden, adjacent to the main house. The accommodation will be provided rent and council tax free, with utility bills to be covered by the occupant.

The role is presented as a Head Gardener role, but the principals are also seeking a full-time undergardener/housekeeper (roles are currently undertaken by a couple and both becoming available in spring 2026 due to retirement). The undergardener/housekeeper role entails assisting the Head Gardener with all gardening and grounds maintenance aspects and approximately 1-2 days of general housekeeping (predominantly cleaning and laundry) within the main house.

Therefore sole applications for the role of Head Gardener will be considered as well as applications from couples to cover both roles. In the case that a couple is not recruited, the under-gardener/housekeeper role(s) will be advertised and filled separately.

A driving licence is required due to the rural location.

The working week is Monday to Friday, 40 hours per week.

Salary: circa £30-35,000 depending on experience. The Salary for a couples role to be discussed.

To apply please send a CV and covering email.

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.

If you would like to view more information on the Professional Gardeners Guild, please click here and the Royal Horticultural Society, please click here

For more gardener roles please click here

Tagged as: full time, Gardener Housekeeper Couple, head gardener, Live In, North Norfolk