Work at Castleton Farm, Shop and Cafe

Castleton employs over 350 seasonal workers, mostly students, throughout the season to harvest the fruit and help with the various husbandry tasks.  The work can be hard, but many students enjoy themselves so much that they return for another season. 

Workers start arriving in February to begin planting.  Harvesting commences in May and general husbandary tasks are ongoing.  We are unable to give workers any assurance about the continuity of employment due to the readiness of the crop and customer demand.  Our aim is to provide you with at least 39 hours work a week whenever possible.  You will be offered work when it is available; you are not compelled to take it.  It is expected that after training you should be harvesting 10 kilos of strawberries per hour and 4 kilos of raspberries per hour.  If this is not achieved after adequate training then your employment will be terminated. 

We strongly recommend that you open a bank account in your own country before leaving and you can then arrange to have the money you earn here transferred directly into that account.  It is not safe to leave cash in your accommodation or to carry large sums of cash with you. 

Accommodation

Accommodation is provided in the form of caravans and portacabins which you will share with others.  Facilities are provided for you to prepare and cook your own meals.  Transport is provided weekly to take you to the supermarket.  You will be expected to keep your accommodation clean and tidy. 

Leisure Time

We are situated on the picturesque North East of Scotland coast, with spectacular beaches, lovely walks and the holiday town on Stonehaven all within easy reach so on days off there is plenty to do and see. 

Facilities on the farm include internet access, table tennis, basketball, football pitch and bikes.  Trips are organised for workers throughout the season, past visits include day trips to Edinburgh and Balmoral. 

What To Bring With You

·        Warm workwear and waterproofs

·        Wellington boots

·        a warm sleeping bag

·        Passport and Visa (for some nationals) and ID card.  2 passport size photos. 

·        Money for the first few days (approx £75)

·        A signed document from your university listing the subjects you are studying - Agriculture, Horticulture or English must be stated. 



If you would like to come and work at Castleton, please fill out the application form and we will get back to you as soon as possible. 

click on this link for an online application form

How to Find Us

The farm is situated 25 miles south of Aberdeen.  If you are arriving in London, we suggest that you get the National Express or Megabus coach to Aberdeen.  From there you can get a bus to Stonehaven which is 8 miles north of the farm.  When you arrive in Stonehaven, telephone the farm and we will collect you if you arrive before 7pm. 
Please telephone from London to let us know to expect you.