Volunteer with Us
We are looking for enthusiastic people who want to work as part of a team and who have a passion for Tavistock! The Trust's volunteers are the backbone of our work and if you'd like to get involved, we'd love to hear from you. We are now offering a wide range of different opportunities – you can find out a bit more about each of them below.
Be part of uncovering a thousand years of history.
Be part of uncovering a thousand years of history.
The Rediscovering Tavistock Abbey Project (RTAP) is bringing the story of Tavistock’s medieval Abbey back to life — and we’d love you to be part of it. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a student, a family looking for something hands-on, or simply curious about what lies beneath your feet, there’s a role for everyone.
Thanks to a grant from Historic England’s Repair Grants for Heritage at Risk programme, vital work is under way to conserve Betsy Grimbal’s Tower, the great west gate of Tavistock Abbey. Alongside this, the project offers exciting volunteer opportunities for local people to help explore, research and interpret the Abbey’s story.
Ways to Get Involved
Work alongside professional archaeologists as we explore key Abbey sites before restoration begins.
You’ll help uncover original ground levels, trace ancient walls and — who knows — perhaps even find something that hasn’t been seen for centuries!
No experience is needed. We’ll provide full training, tools, and guidance. Just bring enthusiasm (and maybe a pair of wellies!).
Community Archaeology Digs
Community Research Group
Help piece together the Abbey’s fascinating story from maps, manuscripts and old records.
Our volunteer research team is already investigating how the Abbey’s monks shaped the town’s economy, land, education and culture — and we need more curious minds to join us.
You’ll receive support and training in research methods, and work with friendly, like-minded volunteers.
“What’s in Your Garden?”
Could part of Tavistock Abbey be in your wall or flowerbed?
After the Abbey’s dissolution in 1539, its stones were reused across the town. We’re inviting residents to look around their homes and gardens for carved or unusual stones that might once have belonged to the Abbey.
Upload a photo and location, and we’ll add your find to our digital Abbey map.
Tavistock's Visitor Information Centre (VIC)!
This service for visitors and locals alike is entirely provided by our team of volunteer Visitor Information Assistants, with two volunteers on duty at all times during the centre’s opening hours to answer enquiries from visitors and local residents. Smaller groups within the team have also taken charge of specific aspects of the operation, including developing the centre’s retail stock, managing the supply of information leaflets, and handling outreach with local attractions and accommodation providers
If you’re interested in this role, have a look at our Role Profile for more information and then contact david.conn@heritageintavistock.org
Why Volunteer?
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Learn new skills in archaeology and research
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Meet new people and make a difference in your community
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Help shape how Tavistock’s medieval story is told for future generations
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Take pride in preserving one of the most important historic sites in Devon
Register Your Interest
Joining is easy — just fill in the short form and we’ll be in touch with details of upcoming activities, training sessions and events.
Together, we can rediscover Tavistock Abbey — and bring its story back to life for the next thousand years.