Description
Why we want you:
Abbotsford welcomes over 40,000 visitors a year from all over the world. We
have been a world-famous visitor attraction since Sir Walter Scott died in 1832.
Taken over by a charitable trust in 2007, our mission is to care for his house,
estate and collection and share his legacy with the world. We are looking for
friendly and outgoing individuals to welcome and orientate visitors around the
site. You will be liaising with the house stewards to ensure that the flow of
visitors into the house is managed efficiently. Our volunteers are the face of
Abbotsford and play a vital part in welcoming visitors from all around the world
and making their visit unforgettable. No prior knowledge is necessary, as full
training will be given. All you need is a smile and a genuine interest to learn
about Abbotsford and support our important charitable work.
What you will be doing:
Welcoming visitors when they arrive in the the South Court
Check their tickets and orientate them towards their destination - house
or gardens.
For house visitors, explain what to expect on the house tour.
Stagger entry if multiple visitors arrive at the same time.
Manage the flow of visitors entering and exiting the house by liaising with
the house stewards through the glass door and the visitor centre staff
using the radio.
Explain the route through the gardens and point out the chapel.
Keep informed about and actively promote other activities and events at
Abbotsford..
Answer any questions they may have to the best of your abilities.
The skills you need:
Excellent communication skills and confidence in conversing with the
public.
An interest in meeting and speaking to people from all walks of life and all
around the world.
A warm and friendly personality
Excellent time management and punctuality
Commitment to excellent customer service
Be the public face of Abbotsford
An interest in and willingness to learn about Abbotsford and a desire to
support our work.
Enthusiasm to share your knowledge with our visitors
What's in it for you
Learn new skills and gain confidence in a work environment
Make new friends and meet people from all over the world
Become part of a friendly and diverse team
Be uplifted by spending time in the stunning surroundings of Abbotsford
and support the important work of our charity
Get invites to volunteer social events
Get discounts in our café and shop
Travel expenses will be reimbursed (conditions apply)
Use of ASVA cards to visit other attractions
Organisation aims and objectives
Abbotsford is the home of the 19th century writer Sir Walter Scott and is run by The Abbotsford Trust, a registered Scottish charity. We offer a five star visitor experience to visitors from across the world including the historic house and collections, 100 acres of designed landscape, formal gardens, a free Visitor Centre with an exhibition on Sir Walter Scott, play trail, gift shop, restaurant, events and special exhibitions.
Availability
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Restrictions
Experience required: • Excellent communication skills and confidence in conversing with the public.
• An interest in meeting and speaking to people from all walks of life and all around the world.
• A warm and friendly personality.
• Excellent time management and punctuality.
• Commitment to excellent customer service.
• Be the public face of Abbotsford.
• An interest in and willingness to learn about Abbotsford and a desire to support our work.
• Enthusiasm to share your knowledge with our visitors.
Travel details: Abbotsford House, Melrose, Scottish Borders
Minimum age: 16
Support
Support:
Named Contact For Volunteer,
Wheelchair Access/Disabled Access Toilet