Overview
Every year, thousands of people visit Cromford Mills to discover the birthplace of the modern factory system and explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As a Visitor Welcome Volunteer, you will play a crucial role in shaping their experience from the moment they arrive.
This is a sociable and varied volunteer role at Cromford Mills, perfect for someone who loves people and hands-on experiences. You’ll welcome visitors warmly, help them navigate the site, and support our growing programme of family crafts, trails and games.
Whether you’re interested in a future in heritage, tourism, education or events, or simply love Cromford Mills, this is a great opportunity to build confidence, develop skills, and make a positive impact.
What will you be doing?
-Provide a warm, friendly welcome to all visitors.
-Help visitors understand what’s on offer-including handing out leaflets, directing people to tours, exhibitions and family activities.
-Support visitors in planning their time, signposting key areas of the site.
-Promote tours, trails and Arkwright Society membership.
-Keep an eye on public areas like the mill yard and assist with wayfinding.
-Distribute feedback forms to visitors.
What kind of person are you?
-Friendly, welcoming and approachable.
-Comfortable engaging with visitors of all ages.
-Willing to learn about Cromford Mills and its place in the story of our area and able to direct visitors to other sources of information.
-Proactive and confident using your initiative when things are busy.
-Reliable and happy to help wherever needed – from crafts to directions.
Supportive of other volunteers and staff, and a real team player.
What are the benefits of this role?
-Make a real difference to the experience of local families and day-trippers alike.
-Help us support our community and preserve our Grade I listed World Heritage Site.
-Gain hands-on heritage and visitor engagement experience. Great for your CV if you’re interested in heritage, education, tourism or events.
-Build confidence in talking to the public, experience in teamwork and front facing communication.
-Be part of a large social volunteer team.
-Discounts in the Mill Shop and Arkwright Society cafes.
-Travel expenses paid.
-Lunch voucher for full-day shifts.
-A reference for future jobs.
Training & Support
You’ll receive:
-A full site induction.
-Training in visitor engagement.
-Training on our site and where to send visitors with questions or to find historical information.
-Ongoing mentoring and team check-ins.
How much time will you need to give?
Ideally at least once every 2 weeks to keep your knowledge fresh and feel involved. Our busiest times for this role are school holidays and weekends.
We’re flexible! Mornings, afternoons or full days are available.
