Head Bartender

Head Bartender

Full-Time 34160 - 34160 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Botanical Rooms Bar at The Newt in Somerset

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a dynamic bar team and craft innovative cocktails using local ingredients.
  • Company: Hadspen House Hotel, known for its creative and sustainable approach to hospitality.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, gym access, spa discounts, and up to 30 days annual leave.
  • Other info: Join a fun workplace with regular team activities and excellent growth opportunities.
  • Why this job: Perfect for those who love creativity, teamwork, and making memorable guest experiences.
  • Qualifications: Previous bar experience and a passion for cocktail innovation and sustainability.

The predicted salary is between 34160 - 34160 £ per year.

  • Head Bartender
  • £34,160 per annum plus tronc and fantastic benefits
  • 40 hours over 5 days, including regular weekends and evenings
  • A driving license is recommended due to the location of this role
  • Advert closes: 13th July 2026

We are on the lookout for a creative and ambitious Head Bartender to lead our dynamic bar team at Hadspen House Hotel.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone ready to step into a management role, bringing fresh ideas and energy to an already innovative drinks programme.

You’ll take ownership of the day‑to‑day running of the bar, ensuring our smooth service and high standard.

While the Botanical Rooms Restaurant Manager retains responsibility for the strategic direction, you’ll be the key presence on the bar floor – setting the tone, leading the team, and ensuring each guest has a memorable experience.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives on the front line, enjoys developing others, and is ready to grow into a more senior position.

At the heart of your work will be the curation of a seasonal cocktail menu that celebrates the estate’s bounty.

You’ll craft drinks using ingredients grown in our gardens, foraged across our grounds, and made in partnership with our cider makers and distillers.

Sustainability, creativity, and provenance are central to everything we do behind the bar – and you’ll be the one driving it.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the Hadspen Bar team, delivering outstanding guest service and an engaging bar experience
  • Design and maintain a seasonal cocktail menu showcasing estate‑grown and foraged ingredients
  • Train, inspire, and support your team – helping them grow their skills and confidence
  • Oversee daily operations, including scheduling, stock management, and compliance
  • Support with events, tastings, and cross‑department collaboration

Benefits

  • A positive workplace environment with opportunities to develop both personally and professionally.
  • Complimentary use of our gym and wellbeing classes.
  • Complimentary access to our Spa and swimming pools and 50% off Spa Treatments.
  • 30% discount on our shops (both on estate and online) and free delivery for online purchases.
  • Discounted hotel stays for staff and a 30% discount at our restaurants.
  • Complimentary garden membership for the Newt and partner gardens including the Eden Project, Kew Gardens and The Lost Gardens of Heligan.
  • Complimentary staff meal each shift – crafted by our dedicated kitchen team.
  • Recognition through the colleague recognition programme “Newt Awards” with opportunities to earn rewards including complimentary Hotel Stay.
  • Support from our Employee Assistance Programme for yourself and family.
  • Regular team engagement activities including fun events such as Go‑Karting and Wine Tasting.
  • Up to 30 days annual leave each year for full‑time team members.

Qualifications

  • Previous bar experience in a premium setting, with supervisory experience.
  • Genuine passion for cocktail innovation, local ingredients, and sustainability.
  • Hands‑on, confident presence behind the bar with excellent product knowledge.
  • Organised and detail‑driven with experience in stock control.
  • Curious and creative, with a flair for storytelling and guest engagement.
  • Eager to learn and grow.
  • #J-18808-Ljbffr
Botanical Rooms Bar at The Newt in Somerset

Contact Details:

Botanical Rooms Bar at The Newt in Somerset Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Head Bartender

Get a Taste of the Scene

Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!

Network at Food Festivals

Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!

Show Off Your Skills

Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Botanical Rooms Bar at The Newt in Somerset. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

Reach Out Directly to Botanical Rooms Bar at The Newt in Somerset

Don't be shy about reaching out to Botanical Rooms Bar at The Newt in Somerset directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!

We think you need these skills to ace Head Bartender

Leadership Skills
Guest Service Excellence
Cocktail Innovation
Knowledge of Local Ingredients
Sustainability Awareness
Stock Management
Training and Development

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.

Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!

Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Botanical Rooms Bar at The Newt in Somerset and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!

Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!

How to prepare for a job interview at Botanical Rooms Bar at The Newt in Somerset

Show Your People Skills

In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!

Know Your Menu Inside Out

Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!

Demonstrate Your Team Spirit

Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'

Get Ready for a Practical Test

In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!