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Posted 6 June 2022

An interview with House Host volunteers

As part of Volunteer’s Week 2022, we caught up with some of our House Host volunteers to find out what volunteering at Waddesdon involves, what they love most about their role and what their favourite aspect of the House is.

What do you enjoy about your role at Waddesdon?

‘I enjoy interacting with the visitors and learning about the collection. I also enjoy being in a stunning environment’- Linda, House Host

‘It’s a fantastic house to work in, we’re surrounded by beautiful, and historic items – some with amazing stories; and everyone is lovely, supportive and friendly.  I feel really lucky that I’m part of the team’- Helen, House Host

What do you love about volunteering at Waddesdon?

‘Meeting visitors, the collection (particularly the sevres porcelain and paintings), the perks (volunteer discount,  social events, of which there are many), meeting other volunteers and friendly staff’- Linda, House Host

‘I like meeting people people- our visitors in particular- and offering help and guidance where needed. I also find the grounds of the manor are a really lovely place to spend time in’- Brian, Grounds Host

‘Having a real sense that we are helping others enjoy the house, especially if it’s their first visit.  It is not a difficult property to ‘sell’ to visitors, but I do enjoy sharing the stories, educating visitors, and enabling them to have the best possible experience of Waddesdon’- Helen, House Host

Do you have a favourite object/room in the House?

Gallery view of Kate Malone Inspired by Waddesdon exhibition 2016

‘I particularly like being in the West Gallery for its peaceful atmosphere, the sevrés porcelain, the French clocks and furniture’- Linda, House Host 

Find out more about volunteering>