Volunteer with us

Two volunteers in the garden, standing by a tree looking cheerful

We have a range of voluntary roles in the Garden. Find out more and apply to join us.

Why volunteer?

Volunteers are a respected and valued part of the workforce in the Garden. Volunteering is a fun and rewarding way to help the Garden continue to develop and flourish. We are looking for enthusiasm, reliability and commitment. Specialist skills are useful but not essential.

What do our volunteers do?

There are many different activities that you could help with. Our volunteering opportunities include:

      • Practical Garden duties. Anything from weeding to watering to winter protection. (Waiting list only at present. We can only take horticultural volunteers on weekdays.)
      • Welcome Lodge. You would take entrance fees, give information about the Garden, the Friends' Association, courses and tours. (March to November)
      • Lead guided tours. We train some of our volunteers as tour guides for visiting groups.
      • Assist with events. This could include manning an information stand, taking entrance money or car park stewarding. You may also help with preparation and clear up.
      • Invigilating. We run Royal Horticultural Society exams in February and June and need volunteer invigilators to help with these.
      • Fundraising. Some of our volunteers help us to raise money for the garden. This could involve 'selling' the garden to corporate and private sponsors. People skills and good connections are a distinct plus.
      • Any other useful skills you can offer us - let us know!

If you are only interested in practical gardening duties, please do not complete the form below - instead email us with subject heading 'Garden Volunteers Waiting List' with a brief outline of your gardening interests, skills and/or qualifications, and we will add you to the waiting list.

If you are having any trouble completing the form, or would like more information about volunteering at the University of Bristol Botanic Garden, call us on +44 (0) 117 42 82041 or email botanic-gardens@bristol.ac.uk