Picton Castle and Gardens

Picton Castle dates to the 13^th century and is surrounded by 60-acres of gardens hosting a wide variety of plants. A recently restored Victorian Walled Garden is a key feature filled with annual display beds, ornamental pond, herbaceous plantings and Mediterranean bed. Attached to that is a newly created educational area with traditional glasshouse and wildlife demonstration garden.

Within the walls the old potting shed hosts a fernery with ferns from around the world. Other key areas of the garden include the Peach House Gardens and woodland which have vast herbaceous beds and collections of hydrangeas and ferns. As well as the Jungle Garden with it’s collection of hardy Zingerberales.

The Woodland Gardens of around 30-acres have extensive plantings of Picton bred rhododendrons, many species of conifers and Myrtaceae including the Myrtle Avenue. All planted around native trees like ancient oaks. Historical features dot the woodlands with two Ice Houses, a dew pond and reminants of a picturesque cascade. A nursery is tucked away that produces plants for the gardens including annual displays and for any projects the garden team are undertaking.

A trainee at Picton will learn aspects of maintaining and developing a large historic garden. They will develop their skills and knowledge in various areas of horticulture through the differing parts of the garden, providing a rounded trainee experience. They will also gain experience with a variety of garden machinery including tractors, mowers, strimmers and hedgecutters. The trainee will also have an active involvement in planning and delivering new developments and will work with and lead teams of volunteers in the garden.

Placements available: One

Staff numbers: 5 full-time and 1 part-time horticulturists, 1 HBGTP trainee and 8 volunteers.

Ease of access: 3 miles East of Haverfordwest. 2 miles South of the A40.

Accommodation: No dedicated accommodation available.