At a Glance
- Tasks: Welcome visitors and provide engaging tours at the iconic Stirling Castle.
- Company: Join Historic Environment Scotland, a leader in preserving cultural heritage.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, a generous pension scheme, and flexible working hours.
- Other info: Diverse workplace welcoming applicants from all backgrounds; great career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting team that enhances visitor experiences at a historic landmark.
- Qualifications: Excellent customer service skills and experience in fast-paced environments are essential.
The predicted salary is between 27740 - 27740 € per year.
Starting salary: £27,740 pro rata per annum
Contract type: Permanent
Grade: 1
Location: Stirling Castle
Working Hours: 35 hours per week, 5 out of 7 days
Interviews: To be held in person at Stirling Castle on Week Commencing 15 June 2026
Thank you for your interest in the post of Guide with Historic Environment Scotland based at Stirling Castle. This is a full-time, permanent post, working 35 hours per week (five days out of seven) which will include weekends and public holidays.
You will provide the highest standard of customer care to visitors, and you will also be responsible for enthusiastically providing information and assistance, where appropriate. You will be responsible for ensuring visitor safety at all times, whilst maintaining the high standards of presentation and professionalism that Stirling Castle prides itself in.
Benefits of joining us at Historic Environment Scotland:
- Enrolment onto a Civil Service Pension scheme – 28% employer contribution
- 25 days annual leave, pro-rata (increasing to 30 days after 3 years) + 11.5 public holidays
- Reimbursement for relevant professional subscriptions
- Support for further education and personal development
- Study leave for work related courses
- Flexible working hours (where appropriate)
- Free entry to all of our properties (with up to three guests)
- Free entry to English Heritage, Manx and Cadw properties
Key Responsibilities of this role:
- Welcoming and interacting with the visitors to help enhance their visit to the Castle by delivering excellent customer service and assessing their individual needs.
- Using material researched by our Cultural Resources Team to be able to provide information to visitors on any areas or points of interest and answer any questions posed by our visitors.
- Once training has been given, be able to provide entertaining and informative guided tours of Stirling Castle, including the Palace Apartments, the Stirling Heads Gallery and Argyll’s Lodging, to an international audience of all ages.
- Undertake visitor focussed static duties around the Castle, and within the Stirling Heads Gallery and the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Military Museum.
- Assist with the monitoring and management of the site and its extensive grounds, royal apartments, exhibitions and interpretation spaces to ensure that it is presented to the highest standard and report any defects to the Duty Manager.
- Promote all Historic Environment Scotland sites, and events and activities taking place at these.
- Awareness of the relevant risk assessments and fire action plans, evacuation procedures and incident response guidelines, and the position of First Aid boxes.
- Other ad hoc duties as directed by line management.
- Be willing to drive the courtesy vehicle if the successful candidate holds a full UK driving licence (training will be provided).
- Working together with related business areas within Stirling Castle.
Key requirements of the role:
In order for you to be successful in this post, we will be looking for you to complete a cover letter which addresses:
- Why you are interested in the post with Historic Environment Scotland
- How you can meet each of the essential and desirable criteria (in up to 800 words), using examples of where you have used these skills in the past.
Please ensure that you provide real life examples for each of the criteria to be considered for this post. You can use examples of how you have met this criteria from your work life, home life, education or volunteer experience. Please read our CV and Cover Letter Guidance first before completing, as you will only be eligible for selection if you use examples of how you meet the essential and desirable criteria.
Essential Criteria:
- Excellent customer service skills
- Experience of working in a fast paced, high-volume environment
We are dedicated to building a workforce which is reflective of diversity within Scotland. We warmly welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, regardless of age, race, gender or gender identity, religious beliefs, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, or neurodiversity. In support of our Gaelic Language Plan, we welcome applications from Gaelic speakers.
We want every candidate to have the best chance to succeed during the recruitment process. If you require your application in an alternative format, please reach out to us via email at recruit@hes.scot or call our Head Office at 0131 668 8600 and speak to a member of our People Team.
Please note that, at this time, we are unfortunately unable to provide sponsorship as part of the recruitment process, therefore you must have current right to work in the UK to be considered for a post.
To submit your application online, please read our ‘How to Apply’ section followed by ‘Apply Now’ button to begin your application.
Guide (Permanent) - Stirling Castle employer: Historic Environment Scotland
Historic Environment Scotland is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development and well-being. With generous benefits including a Civil Service Pension scheme, extensive annual leave, and opportunities for further education, employees at Stirling Castle enjoy a fulfilling career while engaging with visitors in a historic setting. The commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures a welcoming environment for all, making it a rewarding place to work.
Contact Detail:
Historic Environment Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Guide (Permanent) - Stirling Castle
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Stirling Castle inside out! Familiarise yourself with its history, key features, and visitor experiences. This way, when you chat with the interviewers, you can show off your passion and knowledge about the place.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer service skills! Think of scenarios where you might need to handle tricky questions or situations with visitors. Role-playing with a friend can help you feel more confident and prepared for those real-life interactions.
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! When you go for your interview, make sure you look professional and presentable. First impressions matter, especially in a role that’s all about customer interaction. Show them you’re ready to represent Stirling Castle!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Historic Environment Scotland team. Let’s get you that job!
We think you need these skills to ace Guide (Permanent) - Stirling Castle
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! Tell us why you’re excited about being a Guide at Stirling Castle and how it aligns with your interests.
Use Real Examples:We want to see how you meet the essential and desirable criteria. Use specific examples from your past experiences—whether work, education, or volunteering—to illustrate your skills and how they relate to the role.
Keep It Concise:You’ve got up to 800 words, so make every word count! Be clear and to the point, ensuring you address each criterion without rambling. We appreciate a well-structured application!
Check Your Format:Before hitting that 'Apply Now' button, double-check your application format. Make sure it’s neat, professional, and follows our guidance. A polished application shows attention to detail, which is key in customer service roles!
How to prepare for a job interview at Historic Environment Scotland
✨Know Your Castle
Before your interview, brush up on the history and key features of Stirling Castle. Familiarise yourself with the areas you'll be guiding visitors through, like the Palace Apartments and the Stirling Heads Gallery. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've provided excellent customer service in past roles. Think about situations where you went above and beyond to meet a customer's needs, especially in fast-paced environments. This will demonstrate that you have the essential skills they're looking for.
✨Practice Your Tour Guide Skills
Since part of the job involves giving guided tours, practice delivering a short tour of Stirling Castle to friends or family. Focus on being engaging and informative, as well as managing your time effectively. This will help you feel more confident during the interview when discussing your ability to lead tours.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess how you'd handle various visitor scenarios, such as dealing with difficult guests or ensuring safety during busy periods. Think through potential situations and how you would respond, highlighting your problem-solving skills and commitment to visitor safety.
