The Donkey Sanctuary

Just outside the town of Sidmouth, the Donkey Sanctuary is home to around 500 donkeys with a total of 13,600 donkeys being rescued over the years. Set in unspoilt farmland and countryside, visitors return time and again to meander among the donkeys and absorb the serene and relaxed surroundings.

The Donkey Sanctuary was founded by Dr. Elizabeth D. Svendsen, MBE in 1969 and was registered as a charity in 1973.

The aims of the Donkey Sanctuary are to prevent the suffering of donkeys worldwide through the provision of high quality, professional advice, training and support on donkey welfare. In the UK and Ireland permanent sanctuary is provided to any donkey in need of refuge.

In the UK and Ireland the Donkey Sanctuary has taken over 11,800 donkeys into its care. Many of these have been rescued after having been cruelly neglected and others come from loving homes for various reasons, perhaps due to a change in the owners' circumstances, illness or moving house.

Visitors are free to spend as much time as they wish meeting the donkeys in the main yard who adore fuss and attention. Visitors may also stroll along our various field walks or ramble down to the sea, pausing at the Nature Centre and conservation area on the way.