We are seeking an adaptable, hands-on Chef to join a beautiful traditional English country estate based in NN12. This is a wonderful opportunity for someone looking for a varied, lifestyle-led role within a relaxed yet well-run rural household, working alongside a small and close-knit estate team.
This unique position combines cooking, household support, and light outdoor duties, making it ideal for someone who enjoys a practical and all-round role and genuinely embraces countryside living.
While the estate operates as a shooting estate and occasional formal service is required, the day-to-day atmosphere is warm, informal, and team-focused, with extended family members also residing on the estate.
The role primarily supports shoot days, entertaining, and events, rather than daily formal dining, offering variety and a more balanced working rhythm.
Duties outlined not limited to:
- Preparing and cooking for shoot days, estate events, and entertaining (typically for 8–20 guests)
- Assisting with menu planning alongside the principals
- Preparing simple, nutritious family meals when required
- Supporting the smooth set-up and clear-down of shoot lunches and events
- Providing general houseman support during quieter periods
- Assisting the wider estate team with light gardening, driving, and basic vegetable or plant care
- Supporting the household wherever needed with a flexible, team-oriented approach
Estate Lifestyle
This role would suit someone who enjoys both indoor and outdoor responsibilities and appreciates the pace and charm of country estate life.
- Opportunity to work with estate-grown produce
- Involvement with the kitchen garden is highly desirable
- A genuine love of the countryside is essential
- Previous experience within a rural or estate environment would be beneficial
- Three resident Labradors on the estate — candidates must be comfortable around dogs (a love of horses would be an added bonus)
Candidate Profile
- Previous experience as a Cook, Chef, or similar within a private household, estate, or hospitality environment is preferred
- Practical, adaptable, and hands-on in approach
- Comfortable supporting both within the house and outdoors
- Calm, discreet, and easy to work with
- Enjoys being part of a collaborative and supportive household team
- Positive and flexible attitude with a willingness to assist where needed
Working Pattern
- 5 days per week
- Flexibility required around shoot season and estate events
- Longer hours may be required on shoot or event days, balanced with flexibility during quieter periods
- Well-planned schedules provided in advance
- Alternate Christmas working required
Package
- Salary from £45,000 – £55k depending on experience (negotiable for the right candidate)
- Long-term, stable opportunity within a well-managed private estate
- Supportive and established household team environment
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