Visitor Engagement Volunteer

Role: Visitor Engagement Volunteer
Background:

Rich in stories, archaeology and a sanctuary for local wildlife, Glastonbury Abbey is a scheduled monument set within 36 acres of beautiful grounds welcoming more than 170,000 visitors each year.

The site hosts a varied programme of educational activities, historical demonstrations, and year‑round events. 

As a Visitor Engagement Volunteer, you will support the Visitor Services Team by helping protect the abbey’s archaeological remains and ensuring every visitor enjoys an informative, welcoming, and memorable experience. Volunteers play an essential role in engaging visitors, sharing the abbey’s heritage, and contributing to the success of The Yard—our new visitor welcome area launched in 2025. 

You will be positioned at key heritage locations across the site and supported by the Front of House Manager and Visitor Services Team. Training will be provided to develop your knowledge of the abbey’s history and visitor offer. 

Managed by: Visitor Services Manager
Working Relationships: Visitor Services, Grounds, Commercial Activity, Learning & Engagement, the Volunteer Development Manager, the wider team and volunteers in other departments.

Opportunity:

• Contribute to the protection and long-term care of a heritage site of international significance. 

   

• Build knowledge of the abbey’s history, archaeology, architecture, and cultural importance. 

   

• Engage with visitors from around the world and enhance their experience. 

   

• Gain valuable experience in the heritage and visitor-attraction sector. 

   

• Join a dedicated and supportive team of staff and volunteers. 

   

• Support an independent charity in its preservation and conservation work. 

   

• Strengthen connections with the local community.

Responsibilities:

• Ensure visitors understand and adhere to the Abbey’s Terms and Conditions of Entry. 

   

• Monitor visitor activity, with particular attention to sensitive archaeological areas (the Great Church, the Lady Chapel & Crypt, the Abbot’s Kitchen, and St Patrick’s Chapel). 

   

• Assist the Admissions Team during peak times by supporting queue management and helping improve visitor flow. 

   

• Provide a warm, visible, and approachable presence across the site; greet visitors and support wayfinding. 

   

• Share accurate and engaging information tailored to different learning needs and accessibility requirements. 

   

• Promote tours, demonstrations, family activities, and other visitor programmes. 

   

• Record visitor feedback and pass on comments requiring staff follow-up. 

   

• Uphold the values of the heritage and museums sector, supporting inclusivity and respectful dialogue. 

   

• Maintain high standards of conduct and integrity at all times. 

   

• Support the Visitor Services Team and emergency personnel in the event of an incident. 

What sort of person are we looking for?

Experience, knowledge and skills

Volunteers in this role will need to have:

• A warm, friendly, and approachable manner.
• Strong communication skills.
• An interest in people and a commitment to delivering an excellent visitor experience.
• The ability to work independently and respond positively to guidance.
• Enthusiasm for Glastonbury Abbey and its heritage offering.
• Professionalism, especially during busy periods.
• The ability to manage multiple priorities with a focus on health and safety.
• A calm, practical approach when addressing concerns about visitor behaviour.
• Commitment to reporting any risks to the site, visitors, staff, or wildlife.
• Working knowledge of the local area (desirable).
• Competence in additional languages (desirable but not essential). 

Time

• Three-hour shifts (11am-2pm or 2pm-5pm) any day(s) of the week, April – October. Shorter shifts can be considered for those with accessibility needs.
• Opportunities may also be available during the low season (November–March) or with other teams. 

Social activities & benefits

After completing the required number of hours, volunteers receive: 

• A membership card allowing year‑round access to the abbey grounds
• Discounts in the shop and café
• Subscription to the monthly Glastonbury Abbey Member Magazine 

Volunteer social events are held throughout the year.

Induction, training and support

• Health and Safety induction 

   

• Visitor Engagement Volunteer role induction

   

• Visitor Services introduction 

   

• Training to use handheld scanners for member visits 

   

• PPE where required 

   

• Ongoing training and support 

Safety

• Volunteers must be comfortable working in a primarily outdoor environment.

Apply

If you are interested in this role, please complete the form below. 

Alternatively download the application form and email it to julia.tanner@glastonburyabbey.com. You may also print and post it to The Administrator, Glastonbury Abbey, The Abbey Gatehouse, Magdalene Street, Glastonbury, Somerset BA6 9EL.

For further information please email julia.tanner@glastonburyabbey.com or phone 01458 832267 for a form.