Have a summer of adventure at Sidmouth Donkey Sanctuary this school holiday with their two new activities. Open now is the sanctuary’s new play area, while an activity trail, which highlights all the work that goes into rehoming the resident donkeys, will launch in July.

Located near the Kitchen Restaurant and the Gift Shop, the new children’s play area is the perfect place to stop off after a day meeting all the donkeys that call the sanctuary home. Suitable for all ages and abilities, the new play area is full of natural play apparatus and is surrounded by native trees, plants and shrubs allowing the kids to immerse themselves into nature and allowing their imaginations to run wild. With a bucket swing, slide and obstacle course, it’s a great way to burn off some energy!

Later in the summer, the new family activity trail will launch and will run daily from 1st July until 30th September. While exploring the trail, you get the chance to test your knowledge and claim a reward with the sanctuary’s exciting new Who Wants to be a Donkey Guardian quiz. Donkey Guardians play an important role in the sanctuary’s work, not only do they share in the joy and excitement of providing dedicated care to the rescued donkeys but also help to free up space on farms for those donkeys that need specialist care and cannot be provided for elsewhere. By following the trail, you can find out more about what is required to rehome donkeys and keep them happy and healthy – once the sheets are completed, you will get a reward!

The new trail costs just £5 – simply head to the Shed to pick up a trail sheet and you’re all set! Entry to the sanctuary is free and all proceeds raised will help fund the work of the Donkey Sanctuary Worldwide. With the new play area, daily talks, scenic walks, engaging exhibits, award-winning gardens and of course, hundreds of adorable donkeys to meet, there is so much to explore, whatever the weather!

The Donkey Sanctuary is open 365 days a year and has grown from a small rescue mission into the world’s largest equine welfare charity, operating world-wide with its headquarters located in Sidmouth.

If you’re looking for something to do this summer while visiting the stunning Jurassic Coast, make sure to visit the Donkey Sanctuary and spend some time making new friends and exploring the new facilities. Find out more here.