Meet Joyce, Elsick Housekeeper

No one knows “the big hoose” better than Joyce, who has been the Housekeeper here at Elsick for 20 years. She makes the house sparkle in more ways than one with her vivacious personality and animal shaped towels in every room! Anyone who regularly follows Elsick House will also know of her tremendous weightlifting skills, giving her the affectionate nickname ‘Iron Grandma.’ Joyce was recently invited to take part in a photoshoot called ‘40 women over 40,’ doesn’t she look INCREDIBLE in this photo by Susan Renée?

Photo by Susan Renée at Kingshill Studios

What does your role involve? As housekeeper my typical day is tidying, stripping and making beds, hoovering, washing and ironing. I wield a mean duster too! I also paint more than Picasso, and I’m just as famous, haha! I’ve even been known to do some furniture removal, anything that needs doing really!

Tell us about your previous job? I came from Balmoral Castle where I looked after all the beautiful linen there. I then moved to Elsick to look after the Late Duke of Fife.

What do you enjoy most about working at Elsick? The best part is meeting all the people who come to stay. I’ve made lots of fond memories here and I love to see our guests enjoying wonderful food and company.

What are your interests outside of work? I enjoy weight training and won the commonwealth powerlifting championships in Canada. I quite enjoy going for walks too and living on the Elsick estate I am surrounded by beautiful places to go.

Bodybuilding at age 50 and powerlifting at age 60, Joyce says “there’s no challenge that can’t be overcome with brute force or determination.”

What’s your favourite saying? “I hope your feet are clean?!”

How do you think Elsick House guests would describe you? Chatty, no nonsense and strong!

What do you think makes Elsick House special? The people who work here make it a great place to be.

Photo by Emma Lawson Photography

To arrange a visit to Elsick House or for more information about wedding, events or staying with us please contact house@elsick.co.uk