Domestic Couple | Private Estate | Berkshire, UK

Domestic Couple | Private Estate | Berkshire, UK

Overview

A new opportunity for a polished, dedicated Domestic Couple to join the private household of a mature couple at their principal residence — a handsome six-bedroom, eight-bathroom Georgian country house set within over 100 acres of managed estate land in Berkshire, encompassing mature woodland, a lake, a kitchen garden and orchard and tenanted properties.

The household principals are well-travelled, frequently dividing their time between their Berkshire estate and additional residences in the US, Europe, and London, as well as time aboard their private yacht. When in Berkshire – predominantly at weekends – the property comes fully to life, and a seamless, highly attentive standard of service is expected.

The couple are straightforward and unpretentious in manner but hold exceptionally high standards and will rely on you absolutely. Discretion, reliability, and genuine pride in one’s craft are non-negotiable. In return, you will receive a competitive salary, outstanding accommodation, and the opportunity to be part of a long-established estate team.

Job duties
Responsibilities of the Domestic Couple (Housekeeper/Cook and Assistant Gardener/Handyperson/Estate Manager) in Berkshire, include:

Housekeeper/Cook

The Housekeeper will be the heart of the house, maintaining an impeccable environment and ensuring the principals and their guests are looked after impeccably. A natural cook who takes pleasure in preparing wholesome, seasonal food will thrive in this position.

Responsibilities include:

• Day-to-day cleaning and periodic deep cleaning of the six-bedroom, eight-bathroom principal residence
• Meticulous care of high-value art, antiques and fine furnishings
• All household laundry and linen management
• Family cooking — wholesome, healthy, seasonal fare making full use of the kitchen garden and orchard (the principals have no allergies or dietary requirements)
• Catering for occasional gatherings, including traditional roasts and informal entertaining for up to nine adults
• Liaison with the wider estate team on household requirements
• Scope to assist with light outdoor or garden tasks for those with an appetite for a broader remit

Assistant Gardener / Handyperson / Estate Manager

The Groundsman will work predominantly outdoors across the 150-acre estate, providing essential practical support to the Farm Manager and Head Gardener. This is an active, varied role well suited to someone with a practical mindset, a love of the outdoors and a willingness to turn their hand to whatever is needed.

Responsibilities include:

• All-round grounds and garden maintenance across the wider estate
• Supporting the current Estate Manager, who coordinates multiple maintenance contracts
• Upkeep of the indoor swimming pool and gym facilities
• Preparation of fire logs and routine seasonal tasks
• Car cleaning and window cleaning
• General estate handyperson duties — ad hoc repairs, maintenance and practical support as required
• Formal horticultural qualifications are not required; a practical, enthusiastic approach is what matters

The principals are seeking a couple who will integrate seamlessly into an established, friendly team, bringing professionalism, warmth, and a quietly devoted approach to everything they do.

Candidates must be/have:

• Proven, verifiable experience working together as a Domestic Couple within a similar private estate setting
• The Housekeeper must be a confident, capable cook with experience of catering for family and guests
• Experience in the care and handling of high-value items, including art, antiques and fine furnishings
• The Groundsman must have practical, hands-on experience in grounds or estate maintenance
• Fluent English — excellent verbal communication is essential
• Both candidates must be confident, competent drivers
• Trustworthy and reliable
• Proactive, enthusiastic and approach every task with a positive, can-do attitude
• Animal friendly — the principals keep dogs
• Non-smokers
• Impeccable references (which will be taken up by telephone prior to appointment)

Accommodation

The successful couple will have exclusive use of a beautifully presented, modern four-bedroom, two-bathroom detached cottage situated on the estate, with private access, a garage and a private garden.

All household bills included: council tax, rates, broadband/internet — food only is excluded.

Dependants considered on a case-by-case basis.

Hours

Five days per week, 08:00 – 17:00 (weekend cover required). A degree of flexibility is required.

Location

Berkshire (RG7), UK.

Salary

£70,000 – £80,000 (combined), depending on experience.

Job ref
CP994: Domestic Couple for Private Estate in Berkshire, UK.