At a Glance
- Tasks: Become Santa's Elf, creating magical moments through storytelling and interactive scenes.
- Company: Join the Cheddar Gorge & Caves team in a stunning natural setting.
- Benefits: Enjoy 29 days holiday, free entry to attractions, and discounts on food and merchandise.
- Other info: Fixed term role from mid-November to 24 December, with flexible hours.
- Why this job: Bring Christmas magic to life while working in a breathtaking environment.
- Qualifications: Outgoing personality, strong teamwork skills, and a passion for guest interaction.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
About the role
We’re looking for energetic, cheerful, and guest-focused individuals to become one of Santa’s Elves at Cheddar Gorge & Caves this festive season.
This is a truly interactive and performance-based role, where you’ll help deliver magical, memorable moments for every guest — not just at the grotto, but through a series of festive scenes set throughout the cave.
Elves bring the experience to life through storytelling, music, playful interaction, and animated delivery, helping families feel part of the adventure from the moment they arrive.
You’ll be part of a team that creates wow moments.
- Throughout the day, you’ll rotate between a variety of interactive roles, including:
- Greeting families and welcoming them to the experience with warmth and enthusiasm
- Leading interactive scenes throughout the cave, using festive storytelling, playful improvisation, and group singing (no solos!)
- Keeping guests engaged and entertained while they journey towards Santa
- Supporting the main grotto experience by assisting Santa and managing guest flow
- Handing out presents to children as part of the experience
- Preparing and organising gifts before sessions and ensuring stock is in place
- Staying in character and delivering a consistently guest-focused, magical experience
- Engaging confidently with guests of all ages and adapting to individual needs with kindness and warmth
- Helping maintain a tidy and safe environment, assisting with daily setup and pack-down
- Following all Health & Safety procedures and completing safeguarding training before starting
- Working Environment
The festive experience takes place inside Gough’s Cave, including several interactive stations and the grotto itself — located approximately quarter mile inside the cave along a level, well-lit path.
The role includes a moderate amount of walking, standing, light movement, and animated interaction.
The cave environment can be cool and damp, so elves should be comfortable working in those conditions.
About you
We are looking for people who are confident, warm and enthusiastic, with the ability to bring the magic of Christmas to life for every family who visits the grotto. You'll:
- Have an outgoing, enthusiastic and approachable personality.
- Undertake a DBS check due to the nature of this role.
- Have strong team-working skills.
- Have excellent interpersonal skills.
- Deliver the guest experience in line with all Safeguarding requirements.
- Your contract
You’ll join us on a Fixed Term basis, from mid November until 24 December 2026, when Santa’s work is all done for another year!
Hours will be predominately weekend based, with midweek hours available Christmas week.
A little about us
Cheddar Gorge and Caves is a world-famous site set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is one of Britain’s most spectacular natural landmarks.
Being England's largest gorge, with a depth of 400ft and a length of 3 miles, this site presents an unforgettable experience for visitors throughout the year.
Why join the Cheddar team?
This unique work environment will immerse you in the breath-taking scenery of awe-inspiring cliffs and remarkable subterranean stalactite show caves, holding numerous fascinating secrets about our prehistoric ancestors and serving as a central location for caving and rock climbing enthusiasts worldwide.
You will receive attractive benefits that include
- 29 days holiday inclusive of bank holidays, rising to 31 days at 5 years’ service.
- Unlimited free entry to Longleat and Cheddar Gorge and Caves for our employees
- Complimentary tickets to Longleat and Cheddar Gorge and Caves, 18 per annum pro rata
- 50% off Membership for Friends and Family
- Discounts on food and beverages and retail merchandise
- Discounts on Longleat VIP Experiences and Accommodation
- Discretionary bonus scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Employer contributory pension scheme
- Life assurance scheme
- Perks at work
- Range of flexible working schemes
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Costume Character - Elf - Cheddar Gorge & Caves employer: Longleat Enterprises Ltd
Longleat Estate is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in a stunning natural environment while being part of a team that values engagement, accountability, and continuous improvement. As a Forestry Retail Team Member, you will enjoy attractive benefits such as generous holiday allowances, complimentary tickets, and discounts, all within a supportive culture that prioritises employee well-being and growth. Join us in our mission to provide outstanding customer service and contribute to sustainable forestry practices in the UK.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Costume Character - Elf - Cheddar Gorge & Caves
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Walk-Ins
In the hospitality and food service game, a personal touch goes a long way. Instead of waiting for listings, why not walk into local restaurants, cafes, or hotels? Bring your best smile and a CV, and show them that you're eager to join their team right on the spot!
✨Tap into Seasonal Hiring Trends
With temporary roles often popping up during busy seasons, like summer or festive times, keep an eye out for openings as these businesses ramp up. Joining local community groups on social media can also help you stay ahead of the game: think pop-up events, seasonal fairs, or any openings in your area!
✨Utilise Your Network in the Industry
We all know people in the hospitality world, right? Now's the time to message those friends or acquaintances who might already be working in restaurants or bars. They could give you the insider scoop on who’s hiring or even put in a good word for you – it’s all about that inside connection!
✨Apply Through Us for Quick Visibility
Don't forget you can apply for temporary roles directly through our website! It’s not just about the big chain restaurants; many smaller, local places look there for quick hires. Plus, it helps us get you on the radar of employers looking for passionate workers like you, so what are you waiting for?
We think you need these skills to ace Costume Character - Elf - Cheddar Gorge & Caves
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality-food-service game, your ability to connect with customers is key. Make sure to highlight any relevant experience in your CV, like working in cafes or restaurants, and emphasise your skills in teamwork and communication. Don't forget to mention any customer service training or certifications you've got under your belt!
Flexibility is Your Best Friend:Since this is a temporary role, you'll want to showcase your flexibility in your application. In your cover letter, mention your availability and willingness to work various shifts, including weekends or holidays. Employers love knowing they can rely on you during busy periods!
Bring Your Personality to the Front:In hospitality, it's not just about what you can do; it's about who you are! Let your personality shine through in your cover letter. A warm, engaging tone can really make your application stand out and show your potential to create a welcoming atmosphere for customers.
Include Relevant References:References can make a huge difference in the hospitality-field. Consider including a couple of references from previous employers or colleagues in your CV who can vouch for your customer service skills and ability to thrive in fast-paced environments. This adds credibility and elevates your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Longleat Enterprises Ltd
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
In the hospitality-food-service sector, it's all about the customer experience. Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've gone above and beyond for a customer or handled a difficult situation. They’ll appreciate knowing that you can keep your cool and maintain a positive attitude even when things get a bit hectic!
✨Know Your Menu Inside and Out
Whether you're applying for a temporary role as a server or in the kitchen, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the menu and any signature dishes they serve at Longleat Enterprises Ltd. During the interview, they might ask about your food and drink recommendations, so having a few tasty suggestions up your sleeve will show you're genuinely interested in contributing to the team.
✨Emphasise Your Flexibility
Temporary roles often require a bit of juggling with shifts and responsibilities. Be sure to convey your willingness to adapt and take on different roles as needed. Share instances where you’ve quickly switched tasks or taken the initiative to help out your colleagues, showing that you're a team player.
✨Dress the Part and Exude Personality
In hospitality, first impressions matter! Even for a temporary position, donning smart-casual attire can set the right tone. Plus, don't hold back on your personality – let your enthusiasm shine through, as they’re looking for someone who can mesh well with the team and create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
