At a Glance
- Tasks: Keep the kitchen clean and organised while supporting our chefs in a busy environment.
- Company: Join The Newt, a luxury country estate known for its fine dining and beautiful gardens.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, wellness perks, discounts, and up to 30 days annual leave.
- Other info: Experience not essential; just bring your enthusiasm and teamwork spirit!
- Why this job: Be part of a fun team and contribute to an unforgettable dining experience.
- Qualifications: Positive attitude, good communication skills, and a willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 12 £ per hour.
Up to £12.92 per hour plus tronc and fantastic benefits. 40 hours working per week across 5 days, various shifts, regular evenings and weekends. Due to the location of the Estate a driving license is recommended for this role. Advert closes: 1st June 2026.
The engine room of the kitchen – where great service begins. Our Kitchen Porter plays a vital role in keeping our Botanical Rooms Kitchen running smoothly, supporting our chefs by maintaining exceptional standards of cleanliness, organisation and hygiene. This is a hands‑on role at the heart of a busy, high‑quality kitchen where teamwork, pace and pride in your work really matter.
Key Responsibilities
- Keep kitchen areas clean, safe and organised
- Wash crockery, cutlery and kitchen equipment
- Complete daily and deep cleaning tasks
- Support chefs with basic prep and deliveries
- Follow food safety and hygiene standards
What we can offer
- A positive workplace environment with opportunities to develop both personally and professionally.
- Peace of mind with Employee Life Cover, providing your nominated loved one with 2x your salary.
- Support from our Employee Assistance Programme, including unlimited 24/7 remote GP appointments for you and your family.
- Look after your wellbeing with complimentary access to our Spa and swimming pools and our exclusive benefit of 50% off Spa Treatments.
- Stay in shape with complimentary use of our gym and wellbeing classes.
- Access to our Cycle to Work scheme, supporting wellbeing and sustainable commuting.
- Complimentary staff meal each shift – crafted by our dedicated kitchen team, often featuring fresh produce from our estate.
- Enjoy shopping in both our shops on estate and online with 30% discount for all our colleagues and free delivery for any online purchases.
- Complimentary garden membership for The Newt and our partner gardens, including the Eden Project, Kew Gardens and The Lost Gardens of Heligan.
- We value your hard work and recognise your achievements through our colleague recognition programme – Newt Awards, with the opportunity to achieve amazing rewards, including a complimentary Hotel Stay.
- Discover exclusive perks with discounted hotel stays for staff, accompanied by a 30% discount at our restaurants.
- A team that knows how to have fun with regular team engagement activities, including Fun Squad events.
- Up to 30 days annual leave each year for our full‑time team.
What we're looking for
- A positive and reliable team player.
- Good communication skills.
- A clean and organised approach to work.
- Ability to follow instructions and procedures.
- Willingness to support colleagues.
- Previous kitchen experience is an advantage, but not essential.
Where you'll be working: A contemporary take on British fine-dining, we offer a true farm‑to‑fork experience in a beautifully designed, atmospheric 60 cover restaurant. All food is prepared in our kitchen with ingredients fresh from our gardens or locally sourced, ensuring quality and seasonality. Our talented chefs ensure each ingredient is elevated to its highest potential - creating an unforgettable experience. Open for breakfast through to dinner, we offer cream tea in the library and early evening cocktails on the terrace.
Who are we – The Newt in Somerset: Nestled within an expanse of rolling fields and steeped in ancient history, our luxury country estate stands as a haven of refined elegance, inviting guests to explore acres of captivating gardens, meandering pathways, and enriching exhibitions - accessible 364 days a year for our members. Our hotel extends a warm welcome, offering a home‑away‑from‑home experience where impeccable service flourishes in an ambiance of unassuming sophistication. Beyond the estate, the Newt's essence remains tangible, with our Ecommerce teams delivering our finest products to homes, while media and membership endeavours keep them informed of our latest developments. Behind the scenes, a tapestry of talented teams - from Housekeeping to HR, Finance to Farming - collaborates harmoniously, crafting an unforgettable journey of growth, development and innovation, where every contribution creates unparalleled experiences.
Kitchen Porter in Castle Cary employer: The Newt in Somerset
Hadspen House Hotel is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters creativity and personal growth. As the Head Bartender, you'll not only lead a passionate team but also enjoy fantastic benefits such as complimentary gym access, discounts on hotel stays, and opportunities for professional development. With a focus on sustainability and local ingredients, this role allows you to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a supportive environment that values your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen Porter in Castle Cary
✨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 The Newt in Somerset. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Newt in Somerset
Don't be shy about reaching out to 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 Kitchen Porter in Castle Cary
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 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 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!