What is the Activity?

We are looking for volunteers to greet visitors and explain the history of the chapel at Lotherton. Lotherton is a fine Edwardian country house in extensive grounds situated in the village of Aberford, east of Leeds. The Chapel is part of a medieval village which once stood on the estate. The Chapel building is owned by the Parish of York and is still sometimes used for services. Since 1969 when the estate was gifted to Leeds by Sir Alvary Gascoigne, Leeds Museums and Galleries has taken responsibility for the care and maintenance of the building. To find out more come to our drop-in-session at 2pm on Friday 6^th March 2026.

What’s in it for you?

Develop your knowledge of medieval chapels and the history of the 12th century chapel at Lotherton.

Share your passion for history.

Be part of a friendly and dedicated team of staff and volunteers.

Meet people from all walks of life and make new friends.

Improve your communication skills.

What’s involved?

Meeting and greeting visitors to Lotherton chapel.

Learning about Lotherton’s chapel and its history.

Answering questions about the chapel.

The opportunity to help with small historical events and displays in the chapel.

Ensure the safety of visitors to the chapel.

Attending relevant training and inductions.

The role will suit people who are enthusiastic and keen to share their interest in history with others. You will be reliable, keen to learn, have good oral communication skills and enjoy meeting people. The chapel will only be open in the spring and summer as the building is unheated. You should be able to work without supervision when required. Ideally you will be able to commit to greeting visitors for at least 3 hours per fortnight.

All volunteers should be willing to abide by the Council’s code of conduct.  No qualifications are needed as training will be given. 

We welcome applications from a range of backgrounds. Please tell us if you require any adjustments to be made to enable you to attend.  Visit - Lotherton - Leeds Museums & Galleries 

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults.

Taster Session Date: If you are interested in volunteering you need to attend a taster session at Lotherton for an informal introduction. This is at 14:00 on Friday 6th March 2026. Please tell us if you require any adjustments to be made to enable you to attend.

Location: Lotherton, Lotherton Lane, Aberford, Leeds LS25 3EB

You will need to have your own transport or be able to travel to Lotherton, which has no direct links to public transport. 

Further info: For further information contact Stephanie Davies, Assistant Curator of Community Engagement;  Stephanie.1.Davies@leeds.gov.uk

Time commitment: Optional slots weekdays and weekends April to September

Day: Flexible, Tuesday- Sunday

Duration: April to September 2026

Approximately how many volunteers are we looking for? 4-5 people 

Expenses: Out of pocket travel costs between home and your volunteering place will be paid up to the value of £9 per day (subject to conditions).

Please click on the “Fill in an application” button to register for this role Get Involved - Leeds Museums & Galleries  

If you need any help filling in this form, please call 0113 3367840 and ask for the Volunteer and Skills Development Coordinator.

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