Head Gardener – Riverhill Himalayan Gardens

Riverhill Himalayan Gardens • Full-time • Sevenoaks, Kent • 2h ago

This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled horticultural professional with strong plant knowledge and a passion for historic landRiverhill Himalayan Gardens is one of Kent’s most loved privately owned historic gardens, set across 12 acres of beautifully restored walled garden, woodland, rose walks and the spectacular Edwardian Rock Garden. Riverhill is a unique blend of heritage, horticultural excellence, creative events and warm visitor experiences.We are looking for a hands-on Head Gardener to lead the continued care, development and restoration of our remarkable gardens.scapes. You will oversee all aspects of the garden’s presentation, seasonal planting, conservation and long-term development, while helping to shape the next chapter of Riverhill’s ongoing restoration story.Key responsibilitiesLead and inspire the gardening team (equivalent of two full-time) and volunteersManage year-round maintenance of all garden areas, including the Walled Garden, Wood Garden, Rose Walk and Rock GardenDevelop seasonal planting schemes and enhance visitor impactSupport restoration and conservation projects across the estateMonitor and manage plant health, soil care and irrigationMaintain machinery, equipment and toolsCollaborate with estate-wide colleagues for visitor engagement, events and other activitiesEnsure health and safety for the staff, volunteers and visitors are up to date and in placeAbout youEssential requirementsExperience in senior horticultural or head gardener roleExcellent plant knowledgeFlexible and dynamic, able to plan but adjust to changing priorities if requiredPassion for garden restoration, creativity and visitor experienceLevel 2 RHS qualification or equivalent Enjoys public engagements, able to give tours of the gardensUnderstands and manage H&S requirementsPhysically capable to carry out all gardening tasks including work on laddersFull driving licenseBasic computer skills and able to communicate effectively with wide range of peopleFirst aid at work certified or willingness to become one Desirable requirementsChainsaw certificate and confident in use of chainsawsExperience in maintaining water featuresLevel 3 or higher horticultural qualificationExperience in basic hard landscaping tasks such as fencingExperience in using larger machines such as excavator, tractor etc Experience managing contractors and tradespeople Experience in working in gardens which are historic and / or open to the publicUnderstanding and experience in garden designKnowledge of tree safety assessment To apply: Please send your CV and covering letter outlining your relevant experience and suitability for this role to info@riverhillgardens.co.uk Applications will be reviewed as they are received, with interviews scheduled accordingly, so early application is advised.