Volunteer and Make that Difference

It’s spring, the flowers are starting to bloom and the days are brighter – the perfect time to shake the humdrum of winter and try something new. For something different and rewarding, then look no further than volunteering at Mount Stewart , National Trust’s stunning estate in Newtownards County Down.

In Northern Ireland almost two thousand volunteers annually give their time and talents to support the work of the Trust, but we still need more help!

“Without the support of our volunteers we simply would not be able to open our properties or deliver a fabulous day out for people to enjoy.” says Dave Morton, National Trust Community and Volunteer Officer.

Interested? - As a small taster here’s some of the ways you could get involved at Mount Stewart .

1 Guides in the World renowned gardens

Our gardens at Mount Stewart are some of the best in the world. Mount Stewart bodes a micro climate which allows gardeners to grow rare species of plants and flowers. We need volunteers who are willing to learn about the various areas of the gardens as well as the different species of plants and flowers here to educate our visitors as they casually tour the gardens, adding that special touch to our visitors' experience.

2 Gardeners

From beginners to the more experience green fingered types, we need gardening volunteers to help us maintain these stunning, impressive gardens. Working alongside some of the National Trust’s best gardeners including Phil Rollison and Paul Stewart, you can take pride in the fact that you will be learning from the best.

3 Visitor Welcome Team

First impressions matter. This is one of our newest roles and one with the potential to make a real difference at our busy sites. Outgoing and friendly volunteers are needed to meet and greet visitors as they arrive at Mount Stewart as well as taking time to chat and answer their questions across all areas of the estate.

4 Retail Shop Volunteer

Do you have a passion for selling? We need enthusiastic and reliable shop volunteers in our busy retail shop at Mount Stewart .

5 Administration and Office Work

Behind the scenes of almost every National Trust site, is a small but dedicated team of staff and volunteers, turning the administrative cogs that keep our sites running. Experienced administrators are always welcome to help within property offices or with specific projects. If you have a head for paperwork or accounts and relish the chance of seeing how our sites really run behind the scenes, this may be the role for you.

6 House Guides

The great house at Mount Stewart is a treasure trove of history of the people that lived, danced and played there in the heyday of the 1920s and 30s. This really was the playground of the rich and famous. Help us bring its history to life by guiding our visitors around the house whilst retelling stories about the exciting events and people that lived here.

7 Wedding co-coordinator

Weddings are big business at Mount Stewart and we need some hands on volunteers to help us make these days extra special. If you enjoy organising, planning and event management, then this is the role for you.

8 None of the above?

All of your skills, help and time are welcome. Maybe you have an idea of your own or a project in mind to support our properties. If so why not get in touch, discover what opportunities appeal and get more involved as part of our team.

For queries regarding volunteer applications at Mount Stewart, or to simply request more information please contact Sarah Sharp at sarah.sharp@nationaltrust.org.uk or call 028 42 787814.