Team bonding over a vegetable patch? Weeding whilst you get to know your coworkers? Coming back to the office rejuvenated and refreshed, ready to tackle the next big project? These are just a few of the reasons businesses and organisations bring their teams to volunteer at Chiswick House & Gardens.

Volunteering at Chiswick House and Gardens offers a range of benefits, from contributing to the preservation of a historic site to personal growth and learning opportunities. It’s a fulfilling way to give back to the community and immerse yourself in the rich history and beauty of this iconic estate.

A day or half day away from the day job in a beautiful outdoor setting can really help energise individuals and teams, as it’s a chance to do something a bit different. We can tailor your activities according to what you’re looking to achieve. Volunteering here can challenge you to take on new roles, build as a team and help develop a sense of purpose and many say that it’s really helped with personal growth and self-confidence. Plus in the days of screens and virtual working, it’s a great way to bring people together in person.

It was a great day which was well structured and informative. It was nice to be able to give something back to the local community, and I would recommend Chiswick House as a good option for any businesses considering a day of volunteering. – Neil

Whilst volunteering you can learn gardening skills and knowledge about plants and their habitat. Our knowledgeable team have years of experience between them, and plenty of stories and facts to tell. You can also learn about conservation and local history – something we’re steeped in.

Depending on the seasons and what tasks are in demand, the garden team decide how you and your colleagues can help. Gardening in the shrubbery can involve tree trimming, clearance, weeding, maintenance tasks. Kitchen gardening can include tasks such as harvesting, deadheading, weeding beds, planting out, staking plants, border maintenance. Estate Maintenance work can involve cleaning benches; weeding around gates and benches. We can offer a tour of the kitchen garden also – and if you’re lucky you may be able to get a few things to take home.

It was a wonderful experience and great way to team build and Make A Difference. I learnt about gardening and realised the positive mental impact it has to one’s wellbeing as well. It’s a beautiful place and we did a variety of activities from ‘lifting the trees’ to berry picking, pruning, and learning more about nature. Would recommend this. – Sehjal

By donating your time and experience at Chiswick House and Gardens, you can play a crucial role in ensuring that this cultural heritage site remains accessible and well-preserved for future generations to enjoy. Most people don’t realise that this haven is a charity, and we’re 75% visitor and supporter funded, so we simply wouldn’t be here without our local community.

Many people find satisfaction in volunteering here, knowing that their efforts are making a positive impact on a historic site and the community. It can be a meaningful and fulfilling way to spend your time. We have partnerships with schools and a diversity of community groups, supporting health and wellbeing through gardening, food and creativity, and by volunteering, you are helping us help them.

To get involved simply email volunteering@chgt.org.uk , we will send some guidance on corporate volunteering, and a booking form. We will then liaise with you and offer the best timings and activities that suit you and your team.

Here’s what some of our previous corporate groups have said about their sessions:

It was a great day, the staff were really nice and gave us jobs that were meaningful. They were clear with their instructions and completed the jobs with us which helped us feel part of the team there. It was an enjoyable experience and I would like to go back in future. – Jake

We so enjoyed our day!! It was lovely to be contributing to such a beautiful garden so full of history whilst seeing it being enjoyed by visitors. Working with colleagues and making decisions together in the fresh air was such fun. – Robyn

We don’t often see each other face to face off screens so it was a total treat, and we felt very in the moment! The day flew by all too fast for us! We had a delicious lunch in the cafe too. – Tara