City life has its advantages, but in 2026, more professionals are rethinking their careers and choosing rural jobs that offer space, balance, and connection to nature. From countryside estates to private family homes, rural roles provide a rewarding alternative to urban working life.
If you’re considering a career move away from the city, rural estate jobs may offer opportunities you haven’t yet explored.
What Are Rural Estate Jobs?
Rural estate jobs cover a wide range of roles across private estates, country homes, and lodge properties. These positions suit candidates looking for hands-on, varied work in countryside settings.
At Greycoat Lumleys, we recruit for rural and estate-based roles, including:
Estate Managers
Gardeners and Head Gardeners
Housekeepers
Chefs and Lodge Cooks
Couples roles
Maintenance and Handyman positions
Each placement is carefully matched to both the candidate’s experience and the client’s estate requirements.
Rural Jobs You May Not Have Considered
Lodge Cook or Rural Chef
Working as a lodge cook or rural chef often involves cooking with seasonal, locally sourced produce, including game and fresh fish. These roles suit chefs who enjoy independence, creativity, and a close connection to their surroundings.
Couples Jobs on Private Estates
Couples roles are common on rural estates and typically involve shared responsibility for housekeeping, cooking, security, and general estate management. These positions offer stability, variety, and the opportunity to live and work together in a countryside setting.
Gardener or Estate Gardener
From large private estates to smaller country homes, gardening roles range from Head Gardener positions to specialist greenhouse or sole gardener roles. These jobs are ideal for experienced gardeners seeking long-term rural work.
Benefits of Working in the Countryside
Rural estate jobs offer more than just a change of location. Benefits often include:
A quieter lifestyle away from city pressures
Scenic surroundings and outdoor living
A strong senseof routine and purpose
Opportunities to work closely with nature and heritage properties
For many, countryside jobs provide improved work-life balance and long-term career satisfaction.
Find Rural Estate Jobs in 2026
If you’re exploring rural jobs or countryside careers in 2026, expert guidance can help you find the right opportunity. Whether you’re a candidate seeking your next role or a client looking for experienced rural staff, our consultants offer tailored recruitment support.
Get in touch to discover current rural estate job opportunities or to discuss your staffing requirements.