Volunteering
Volunteers play a vital role in helping us open Pope’s Grotto to the public.
The role of volunteering
The Trust works in partnership with Radnor House School to welcome visitors on public open days and at special events. As we open for more than 30 days each year, we rely on a friendly team of volunteers to ensure the smooth running of the grotto and to ensure a happy and informative visitor experience. No special skills or prior knowledge are required — just an interest in the grotto and a willingness to help!
Sally Smith - Volunteer, The Pope’s Grotto Preservation Trust
How you can help
We would love to hear from you if you are considering becoming a volunteer. We already have an enthusiastic team but are always happy to recruit new people. Our volunteers work closely with our friendly and committed trustees. They welcome guests at public open days, explain the history and contents of the Grotto, check tickets and sell books at the front desk.
Our Outreach and Volunteer Manager is on hand to answer any of your questions, to provide training and support. As a new volunteer you will receive the latest copy of the Volunteer’s Handbook and personalised induction and guided tour of the site and the grotto.
As a ‘thank you’ for volunteering, annual social gatherings and reciprocal visits are arranged to other historic sites. Previous visits have included tours of Rousham Gardens, Stowe, Syon Park, Twickenham Museum, St Mary’s Church, Sir John Soane’s Museum, and Chiswick House Gardens. In the near future, visits are planned to Marble Hill House and Turner’s House.
As well as contributing to the rich cultural history of the borough, volunteering is an excellent opportunity to meet visitors, socialise, and make new friends.