At a Glance
- Tasks: Welcome visitors and create unforgettable experiences at a historic palace this summer.
- Company: Join Historic Royal Palaces, a charity caring for iconic landmarks.
- Benefits: Enjoy enhanced holiday entitlement, a pension scheme, and family-friendly policies.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting team and engage with history while working outdoors.
- Qualifications: Customer service experience and a passion for teamwork are essential.
- Other info: Flexible hours available, with full training provided for all roles.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
Join us this summer at one of the most iconic palaces in the world! Historic Royal Palaces is the independent charity that cares for six of the most magnificent palaces in history. These palaces are the setting for stories that shape us all, and we are passionate about sharing them in ways that inspire and engage. We want everyone to find themselves in the spaces and stories we share.
Location: Hampton Court Palace
Status: Temporary / Seasonal
Salary: £28,909 per annum pro rata (full-time), currently £17.30 per hour
Contract Types: Seasonal: 17 March - 6 September 2026
Guaranteed Hours: Approx. 400 hours across 13 May - 7 June & 20 July - 6 September 2026
Hours: Full-time and part-time opportunities available. Shifts include weekends and bank holidays on a rota basis. Typical day: 09:30 - 18:15.
HRP is committed to honouring the London Living Wage increase from 1 April 2026.
About the Role
As a Palace Host, you will be part of a friendly, experienced team helping us deliver exceptional visitor experiences during our exciting summer season. From our annual Music Festival and Food Festivals to live interpretation and special events, you will play a key role in welcoming and engaging visitors.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Greeting visitors and providing outstanding customer service
- Monitoring historic rooms and ensuring the safety of our collections
- Checking tickets at entrances and supporting event operations
- Maintaining site security and assisting with visitor safety
- Working both indoors and outdoors, including some evening events
About You
We are looking for enthusiastic, customer-focused individuals who enjoy working as part of a team. You will need:
- Previous experience in customer service or security
- A good level of fitness for a role that involves being on your feet and moving around the site
- Flexibility to work weekends and evenings
- An interest in history is a bonus, but not essential
Full training will be provided.
Benefits
- Enhanced holiday entitlement
- NEST Pension Scheme
- Family-friendly policies and benefits
How to Apply
Closing date: Friday 23 January 2026
Assessment & interviews: Week commencing 2 February 2026
Please submit your CV and answer the competency and availability questions. No cover letter required.
Historic Royal Palaces is an equal opportunities employer and values a diverse workforce. We are committed to safeguarding and ensuring the safety of everyone in our palaces.
Palace Host (Seasonal and?Guaranteed?Hours) in East Molesey employer: Historic Royal Palaces
Contact Detail:
Historic Royal Palaces Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Palace Host (Seasonal and?Guaranteed?Hours) in East Molesey
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the palace! Familiarise yourself with Hampton Court Palace's history and key features. This will not only impress during interviews but also help you engage visitors better.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or past Palace Hosts on LinkedIn or social media. They can share insider tips and might even give you a heads-up about the application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your customer service skills! Think of scenarios where you might need to handle tricky visitor questions or situations. Role-playing with friends can help you feel more confident.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Historic Royal Palaces.
We think you need these skills to ace Palace Host (Seasonal and?Guaranteed?Hours) in East Molesey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm: When you're writing your application, let your passion for customer service and history shine through! We want to see that you're excited about the role and ready to engage with visitors at our iconic palaces.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights any relevant experience in customer service or similar roles. We love seeing how your background fits with what we do, so don’t be shy about showcasing your skills!
Answer Competency Questions Thoughtfully: Take your time with the competency questions. Think about specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to provide excellent visitor experiences. We’re looking for real-life stories that show us what you can bring to the team!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly, and it helps us keep everything organised. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join us at Historic Royal Palaces!
How to prepare for a job interview at Historic Royal Palaces
✨Know Your History
Brush up on the history of Hampton Court Palace and other royal palaces. Being able to share interesting facts or stories during your interview will show your enthusiasm and interest in the role, making you stand out as a candidate.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Prepare examples from your previous experience where you provided exceptional customer service. Think about situations where you went above and beyond for a visitor or resolved a difficult situation. This will demonstrate your suitability for the Palace Host role.
✨Be Ready for Flexibility Questions
Since the role requires working weekends and evenings, be prepared to discuss your availability. Highlight your flexibility and willingness to adapt to the needs of the team, which is crucial for this seasonal position.
✨Dress the Part
While you may not need to wear formal attire, make sure you present yourself neatly and professionally. A smart appearance shows that you take the opportunity seriously and are ready to represent the Historic Royal Palaces with pride.