Manx National Heritage is looking for volunteers to work in the gardens and grounds of some of the Isle of Man’s most special historic places and spaces. 

The Island’s heritage agency is responsible for over 3,000 acres of land across the Isle of Man and has exciting plans for its gardens at Castle Rushen, Cregneash, The Grove and Rushen Abbey.

At the Grove Museum, a small team of volunteers has already commenced work on re-establishing the country gardens, following designs and planting schemes taken from historic photographs and paintings of the Grove.   At Rushen Abbey, new flower beds are being established featuring naturalistic planting and at Cregneash volunteers led by Karen Griffiths are developing and maintaining the fruit and vegetable plots and cottage gardens with produce from the former, being supplied to the Cregneash and Sound cafes.    

Philip Payne, Horticultural Manager for Manx National Heritage said:

“As a garden volunteer with MNH you will have the opportunity to work in some of the Island’s most stunning outdoor places.   You’ll help bring some exciting plans for our gardens to fruition and could be involved in anything from planting to pruning, seeding to establishing flower beds”. 

Anyone with an interest in gardens, plants or wanting some physical outdoor activity in great company is invited to join our existing team of friendly volunteers.  To find out more, email enquiries@mnh.gov.im or come along to  Rushen Abbey Gardens, Ballasalla on Mondays between 10am and 1pm, Cregneash, near Port Erin on Tuesdays from 10am and The Grove Museum in Ramsey on Fridays from 10am. 

Wear clothing and footwear suitable for outdoor work and the weather conditions on the day.

Phillip continued:

“We welcome volunteers of all ages and abilities.  It’s a great opportunity to make new friends, keep fit, share and learn skills and help a great cause”. 

The project to upgrade the gardens is generously funded by a legacy to the Friends of Manx National Heritage.

Photo - Manx National Heritage volunteers collecting fruit at Cregneash Gardens.