Volunteering at Lyme

A volunteer placing a large stone on a wall at Lyme Park, Cheshire — Volunteer at Lyme Park, Cheshire | © National Trust Images/Arnhel de Serra

They say that many hands make light work – but in our case, many hands make Lyme work. Over 500 volunteers help keep us ticking and without their support, Lyme wouldn’t be the wonderful place it is. From conservation assistants to retail roles, long term stints or two-week bursts, there are lots of opportunities to volunteer here. Find out more about getting involved.

What do volunteers at Lyme Park do?

Lyme's volunteers take on many essential roles both inside and outside the house. They play a key part in the conservation work required to maintain a historic house, garden and park, as well as ensuring an enjoyable experience for our visitors.

Among some of the many volunteer roles are:

• House Engagement volunteers
• Gardeners
• Rangers
• Courtesy vehicle drivers
• Programming/ partnership roles
• Conservation assistants
• Pre-Loved Bookshop volunteers
• Retail assistants

What makes Lyme special?

People volunteer at Lyme for different reasons – to learn new skills, make new friends, become part of a friendly team or gain experience for future employment.

Volunteers at Lyme are invited to join our internal social club, the Lymelighters, who have an annual programme of speakers, day trips and holidays.

Two guides taking to two visitors in close up — Lyme's volunteers offer a fantastic welcome to visitors | © National Trust Images/John Millar

Why join us?

There are lots of reasons to join us; making the move to volunteer could be the best decision you ever make.

Become part of a friendly and dedicated team
Meet people from all walks of life and forge new friendships
Utilise your existing skills and learn new ones
Strengthen your CV and help to develop your career
Enjoy the great outdoors
Learn about the history of this special place.

What opportunities are available?

Some volunteers are with us every week, others only a few times a year. Both are equally valuable.

Long-term

Many of our volunteers come back again and again to roles that they love – our room guides and talks and tours guides volunteer from February to December, whilst our gardeners and rangers volunteer throughout the year.

Work experience

Many students have undertaken work experience at Lyme, using the opportunity to learn new skills, gain experience in the workplace and build on their knowledge in their preferred subject.

Please note that we require a minimum of two months' notice to arrange a placement and that we have a limited number of placements available.

How can I get involved?

For more info about volunteering at Lyme, please do get in touch. Once we receive your application we aim to respond within a fortnight. You can contact us on 01663 762023 or email lymevolunteering@nationaltrust.org.uk