The wardens are our network of dedicated, skilled, and enthusiastic volunteers – helping us in the work we do across the Cotswolds National Landscape. Anyone can join, and everyone is welcome – all you need is enthusiasm for the Cotswolds and a willingness to offer your time and skills to help keep this special national landscape.
In 2018, the Cotswold Voluntary Wardens were presented with The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.
What do our voluntary wardens do?
Volunteering opportunities with the Cotswold Voluntary Wardens vary. There is something for everyone: from walling to walks, and talks to tree planting.
- Work parties – helping to conserve and enhance the Cotswolds National Landscape, taking part in a range of projects from dry stone walling, hedge laying, and tree planting, to installing kissing gates and pond restoration. Our work parties are also vital for looking after the Cotswold Way National Trail – all the maintenance along the 102 mile route is done by Cotswold Voluntary Wardens working with the Cotswold Way Association. From scrub clearance, to way marking, to route repair and maintenance – it’s all essential work to keep the route in peak condition for local and visiting walkers.
- Route patrolling – Circuit of Bath Rangers and Cotswold Way Patrollers head out on ther section of these routes and keep them well waymarked and clear so walkers can enjoy them year round. They welcome walkers on these routes adn report larger problems to work parties.
- Parish wardening – The eyes and ears of the Public Rights of Way network. Working with parish councils, farmers, and local residents to help keep footpaths open and identify local features in need of restoration.
- Guided walks – Leading guided walks, promoting the Cotswolds National Landscape to a wider audience.
- Outdoor learning – Helping with numerous engagement activities from school assemblies and trips to community groups, colleges and the wider public sessions exploring the Cotswolds.
- Shows and talks – Promoting the value of the Cotswolds and what makes it so special.
- Admin support – Helping update the warden website, promoting guided walks online etc.
- Anything else – If you have a skill you would like to share which doesn’t fit into the above please get in touch. It could be anything! We are alwyas grateful for your support.
You can find out more about what our Wardens do on their Facebook page Cotswold Voluntary Wardens & Friends. For further information or an informal chat please contact: Becky Jones on 07738040456 or email at: rebecca.jones@cotswolds-nl.org.uk