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Volunteer opportunities at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal

A volunteer talking with two visitors at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, North Yorkshire
A volunteer chats with visitors at Fountains Abbey | © National Trust Images/Paul Harris

Join the volunteering team at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal and you’ll have the opportunity to learn new skills, make new friends and inspire others while contributing to the special story of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Find out more about the volunteering opportunities available and how you can apply to join the team.

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.

Ways to volunteer at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal

There are currently over 300 volunteers in the team at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal, bringing a huge variety of skills. Volunteer roles are really varied and there are many opportunities to get involved, no matter how much time you can offer.

From mucking in at the bird hide and looking after the vegetable garden at Swanley Grange to keeping history alive for visitors, volunteers get hands on and creative, while making new friends and learning new skills.

Departments you can get involved with include customer information, learning, retail, catering, gardening and events. We'll match your skills to the right role depending on your preferences and where we currently have a vacancy.

Some benefits of volunteering

In return for your support, we offer reasonable out-of-pocket travel expenses for each time you're on duty and access to an estate talks programme. You’ll also meet like-minded people and have the chance to play a part in the ongoing history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.


'There’s such a range of opportunities here that there is really something for everyone. You might think that you are limited to one role linked to your previous career but there might be something new you haven’t thought of doing. Everyone has something to give. I would say give it a go! '

– Maureen Lohmeyer, Fountains Abbey Volunteer

Get in touch about volunteering at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal

To find out more about how you can become a part of the volunteering team, contact Senior Volunteering & Community Officer Andrew Moss on 01765 643172 or andrew.moss@nationaltrust.org.uk.

You can also search ‘Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal’ on the National Trust volunteering website to find opportunities and apply.

Thank you

Thank you to all our volunteers who give their time to support the National Trust in many different roles.

A volunteer talking with a visitor as they walk over a stone bridge at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, North Yorkshire.

Volunteer with us

Search for live volunteering opportunities, or register your interest with Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden.

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