Live-in Housekeeper, Burford , UK

A wonderful opportunity has arisen for a Housekeeper to join a warm, welcoming private family based near Burford in the heart of the stunning Cotswolds. This is far more than a housekeeping position – it is a lifestyle opportunity. The family genuinely values work-life balance, creating a relaxed yet impeccably run household where staff are respected, supported and encouraged to enjoy their own time. Set within a beautiful countryside estate, this role offers the chance to live and work in one of England’s most sought-after locations, surrounded by picturesque villages, rolling countryside and an exceptional quality of life.

The successful candidate will become part of an established household team, working alongside another Housekeeper, a Houseman/Butler/Driver and a dedicated gardening team. The family has grown-up children who regularly visit, creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere while maintaining the standards expected within a formal private residence. This opportunity has become available due to the retirement of a long-standing Housekeeper after 20 years of dedicated service.

The family is looking for someone who takes genuine pride in their work, enjoys creating a beautifully maintained home, has a passion for cooking and food preparation, and understands the importance of discretion, flexibility and exceptional service.

Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Full housekeeping duties to an exceptionally high standard
• Care and maintenance of fine furnishings, antiques, silver and crystal
• Daily cleaning, dusting, vacuuming and care of bathrooms and kitchens
• Laundry, ironing, bed changing and wardrobe management
• Household organisation and receiving deliveries
• Caring for indoor plants and fresh flowers
• Food preparation and light family cooking
• Table setting and occasional service when entertaining
• Household shopping and running errands
• Dog walking and occasional house sitting while the family is away
• Working collaboratively with the wider household team to ensure the home runs seamlessly

Candidate Requirements

• Previous experience working within a formal private household
• Excellent knowledge of traditional housekeeping standards
• Confident cook with a genuine enjoyment of food preparation
• Exceptional attention to detail and organisational skills
• Professional, discreet and service-focused
• Flexible, adaptable and happy to assist where needed
• A positive team player with a calm and proactive approach
• Excellent communication and presentation
• Fluent English
• Full UK driving licence (essential due to the rural location)
• Non-smoker
• Full legal right to work in the UK
• Excellent references

Working Schedule

The family offers flexibility and understands the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Weekend working forms part of the role, with two days off generally taken during the week, with one weekend off a month.

Accommodation & Benefits

The successful candidate will enjoy exceptional live-in accommodation, providing both privacy and comfort. The spacious, beautifully presented self-contained accommodation includes:

• Spacious and light private apartment comprising two bedrooms, two bathrooms (one en-suite) and two reception rooms overlooking a beautiful parkland with 1 car parking space
• Bright, modern interiors with plenty of natural light and stunning views
• Council tax paid by the employer
• Utilities: water paid but not electricity and heating
• Long-term position within a stable and well-established household

This is a superb opportunity for someone seeking long-term stability within a respectful household that truly values its staff. Offering an excellent salary, outstanding accommodation and the chance to enjoy an enviable Cotswolds lifestyle, this role would suit an experienced Housekeeper looking for a position where they can take pride in both their work and their surroundings.

Hours: 9:30am – 5:30pm – 1 hour lunch break

Working Pattern: 5 days per week. Working days will be arranged with the family and will include weekend work, with two days off typically taken during the week.

Salary: £31,500 – £35,000 per annum, depending on experience.

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