Live-in Housekeeper

We’re looking for a professional, caring, and animal-loving, live-in Housekeeper to care for a beautifully maintained 5-bedroom weekend home in the picturesque Henley-on-Thames. This exquisite property features a swimming pool, expansive gardens, and a tranquil countryside setting.

The ideal candidate will be warm, discreet, and experienced in managing private family homes. The role supports a single principal who enjoys regular weekend visits with her daughters and grandchildren, arriving Friday evening and staying through Monday. While there are no formal childcare duties, a flexible, family-friendly approach is essential to help create a welcoming atmosphere. A Gardener attends the property 2–3 days per week, so you will work closely to keep the grounds looking pristine. A genuine love of animals and practical experience in their care is a must.

This is a rare, long-term position offering the chance to work in a beautiful countryside setting for a kind, respectful principal who values reliability, warmth, and professionalism. Accommodation is provided in a charming one-bedroom cottage on-site.

Duties outlined but not limited to:

• Managing all household care with confidence, including housekeeping, food preparation, shopping, and laundry
• Ensuring the property is impeccably prepared before family arrivals and maintained throughout their stay
• Overseeing smooth day-to-day running of the home during weekends
• Running errands and managing household supplies
• Liaising with external contractors and service providers
• Daily hands-on care for the resident animals: chickens, four Shetland ponies, and three alpacas, including feeding and monitoring their wellbeing

Ideal Candidate:

• Experience working as a live-in housekeeper in a private household, preferably in a countryside environment
• Warm, respectful, and family-oriented personality
• Meticulous with a strong eye for detail and pride in delivering excellent service
• Hands-on animal lover, comfortable with basic animal care duties
• Discreet, trustworthy, and proactive
• Full driving licence preferred
• Willing and able to work weekends with days off during the week



Role Details:

Location: Henley-on-Thames

Start Date: ASAP for the right candidate

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

Accommodation: Live-in, comfortable 1-bedroom cottage on site (no pets allowed)

Salary: £40,000 – £50,000 gross per annum

REF: S&W#3393446