Domestic couple

We are looking for a professional, caring, and animal-loving, Domestic Couple to manage a beautifully maintained weekend residence in Henley-on-Thames. This stunning home features five bedrooms, a swimming pool, and picturesque gardens.

The ideal couple will be warm, discreet, and experienced in working within private family homes. The property serves as a weekend residence for a single principal who regularly visits with her daughters and grandchildren from Friday evening through Monday. While there are no formal childcare responsibilities, a flexible, family-oriented approach is essential.

The couple should be confident handling all aspects of household management, including housekeeping, food preparation, shopping, and laundry. Their role will involve maintaining the property during the week, preparing the house prior to the family’s arrival, and ensuring the household runs smoothly throughout their stay.

A Gardener visits the estate 2–3 days per week; however, one member of the couple should be comfortable assisting with light outdoor duties and caring for the animals. The household includes chickens, four Shetland ponies, and three alpacas, so a genuine love for animals is essential.

This is a wonderful long-term opportunity in a beautiful countryside setting, working for a kind and respectful principal who values warmth, professionalism, and reliability.

Duties Outlined but not limited to:

• General household management and upkeep
• Creating a warm, welcoming environment ahead of family visits
• Running errands and managing shopping
• Food preparation and light cooking for weekends
• Laundry and wardrobe care, including linens
• Regular housekeeping to maintain high standards
• Preparing the property for weekend stays and resetting afterwards
• Liaising with contractors and managing household supplies
• Daily care of animals including feeding and cleaning shelters for chickens, ponies, and alpacas
• Occasional assistance with gardening tasks or oversight of grounds maintenance
• Ensuring the grounds are tidy and safe, especially prior to family arrivals

Ideal Candidate Profile:

• Previous experience as a domestic couple in private homes, preferably in a rural setting
• Warm, respectful, and family-friendly manner
• Exceptional attention to detail and pride in your work
• Hands-on experience with basic animal care and genuine love for animals
• Discreet, trustworthy, and self-motivated
• At least one clean UK driving licence preferred
• Willingness to work weekends with days off during the week

Location: Henley-on-Thames

Job Title: Domestic Couple

Start Date: ASAP for right candidate

Accommodation: Live-in, small one-bedroom cottage on site (no pets)

Hours: Weekdays 9am–5pm; Friday 9am–6pm; Saturday & Sunday 9am–7pm; two days off during the week

Salary: £70,000 per annum (combined)

REF: S&W#3393450