Senior Gardener in Castle Cary

£28,000–£32,000 per annum plus bonus and fantastic benefits. Average 40 hours per week across 5 days (seasonal working patterns apply). Flexibility needed to fit the business. A full driving license is required for this role.

Where horticultural excellence meets unforgettable guest experiences.

This is a truly people-focused gardening role, perfect for someone who loves sharing their horticultural knowledge as much as they love cultivating beautiful spaces. As Senior Gardener at the Yarlington Residences, you’ll play a key role in maintaining and developing the gardens while building meaningful, professional relationships with our resident guests. Working closely with the Lead Gardener, you’ll help create welcoming, engaging garden experiences through regular interaction, tours, talks, and workshops — ensuring every guest feels connected to the gardens and the people who care for them. You’ll also provide continuity and leadership when covering for the Lead Gardener, maintaining both standards and the guest experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain and enhance all garden areas, with particular focus on the productive flower garden.
• Deliver consistently high horticultural standards across ornamental and productive planting.
• Engage confidently and professionally with resident guests on a daily basis.
• Lead and support guest-facing activities including garden tours, talks, and workshops.
• Help develop new garden experiences aligned to guest interests and estate character.
• Collaborate closely with the Resident Manager and wider estate teams.
• Adapt priorities to meet seasonal needs, guest schedules, and special events.
• Provide leadership and operational support during the Lead Gardener’s absence.

What we can offer

• 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 our exclusive benefit of 50% off Spa Treatments.
• 30% discount for all our colleagues and free delivery for any online purchases.
• Discounted hotel stays for staff, accompanied by a fantastic 30% discount at our restaurants.
• Complimentary garden membership for the Newt and our 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, often featuring fresh produce from our estate.
• Recognition through our colleague recognition programme “Newt Awards” with the opportunity to achieve a variety of amazing rewards including a complimentary Hotel Stay.
• Support from our Employee Assistance Programme for both yourself and your family including unlimited 24/7 remote GP appointments.
• Access to our Cycle to Work scheme, supporting your wellbeing and sustainable commuting.
• 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 genuinely people-focused gardener who enjoys engaging with guests.
• Proven experience in a professional gardening or horticultural role.
• Strong plantsmanship and broad horticultural knowledge.
• Confident, personable, and professional communication style.
• A proactive and flexible approach to seasonal and guest-led work.
• RHS Level 2 qualification (or equivalent) or higher.
• Ability to balance guest interaction with hands-on horticultural work.
• Full driving licence.

Where you’ll be working

The Residences at Yarlington is a collection of luxury residences just moments from The Newt and its gardens, nestled deep in the Somerset countryside. Thoughtfully curated for guests seeking privacy and comfort, our sensitively restored Regency rectory with two companion houses offers the freedom to self-cater, the ease of partial service, or the indulgence of a fully staffed stay – all with The Newt’s signature warmth and attention to detail. The gardens are integral to this experience, combining ornamental quality with productive horticulture.

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.