Make a difference at Castle Drogo

Castle Drogo is holding two volunteering open days on Sunday 22 and Wednesday 25 April, from 12 noon until 3pm, for anyone who would like to find out more about getting involved at the property.

This is the most exciting time in the history of Castle Drogo since its initial construction. After receiving funding in 2012 from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Interreg, a European grant, the restoration project to make the castle watertight is now in its last phase. More volunteers than ever are needed to share the exciting interpretation that has been created and become part of the Castle Drogo team.

There are lots of opportunities to get involved, from room guiding to buggy driving, garden guiding, research and running the scaffold viewing tower. If you would like to meet the team and find out more about the different ways to get involved, please pop along to the Castle Drogo visitor centre and they will direct you to our community space for a cuppa and a chat. There will also be a chance to go on a tour behind the scenes. You don’t need a degree in history to volunteer – just a warm smile, enthusiasm and a few hours to spare.

As a charity, the National Trust is dependent on the help of its volunteers. It would not be possible to open Castle Drogo without the volunteers who generously give their time.  If you would like to do something that is interesting, enjoyable and rewarding, why not consider getting involved as a volunteer? You can meet new people, learn new things, use your skills and, of course, have fun.

Chris who has volunteered at the castle for 3 years says: ‘I was retired and after 50 years in industry I was bored. I missed people – missed being part of a team. And then along came the National Trust. I quickly found myself climbing scaffold towers, running tours, developing new tour projects, training others. I was back at work again, and I loved it. I still do. No salary, but the rewards are priceless.’

Alice Coombs, Volunteering Officer says: ‘Castle Drogo is a really exciting place to be at the moment, we’ve got loads going on and some real opportunities to get stuck in. Our volunteers are such a skilled and friendly bunch, and of course we would love to welcome new people to the team. I started my National Trust journey as a volunteer and I can’t recommend the experience enough, it’s why I do what I do.’

Whatever your interest or availability, there is a volunteer role for you. Volunteers do not need to have any prior knowledge of the property as all necessary information, training and support is provided. Volunteers also have their travelling expenses reimbursed and have the opportunity to go out for trips and meals. So why not spend your time in beautiful, grand surroundings, by joining the team of volunteers who look after this remarkable place and keep it open for all to enjoy.

To find out more about any of the volunteering opportunities at Castle Drogo, please contact Alice Coombs, Volunteering Officer on 01647 434114, or email alice.coombs@nationaltrust.org.uk