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You are here > Things To Do > The Donkey Sanctuary
Planning a visit over the Christmas holidays?
In order to safely manage visitor flow over the Christmas holidays, all visitors planning to visit between 19 December 2020 and 4 January 2021 (excluding Christmas Day), will need to pre-book in advance. Book your free tickets here.
No trip to Devon is complete without visiting The Donkey Sanctuary.
There’s a tranquil corner of the Jurassic Coast near Sidmouth that hundreds of rescue donkeys call home, and they’re all waiting to meet you. The resident donkeys love to meet new people and their unique characters and stories are all ready to be discovered.
This free-to-visit, award-wining attraction has something special to offer, whether you’re looking for quality time with the kids, or somewhere calming to kick back with coffee and cake.
Explore everything on offer at the sanctuary - all year round, whatever the weather. With activities, trails and talks, there’s so much to explore with your own herd. Friendly dogs on leads are welcome too!
Take sanctuary in the Taste of the West award-winning restaurant and enjoy fresh, local, seasonal produce while soaking in the unparalleled coast and country views. Luscious lunches and tempting afternoon treats are dished up daily - best served with friends, family and fabulous views.
As a passionate animal welfare organisation, all meat dishes are responsibly sourced from producers with high standards of farming and welfare, while vegan and vegetarian options are prominent and varied. Good practice, good for the environment, good for you.
For a souvenir to remember your day by, head to the Gift Shop where you’ll find quality donkey-designed products on every shelf. From donkey duvet covers to mugs, cards, cuddly toys and games, there is something to suit every pocket.
What’s more penny of profit goes towards helping the donkeys and mules in the Charity’s care and in communities around the world – an extra helping for the hardworking animals who are most in need.
You can even become part of their donkeys’ lives forever by adopting one of the lovable donkeys; whether you’re looking for a clever and mischievous donkey like Ruby or a sweet and fluffy beauty like Zena, there is a friend for everyone at the sanctuary. Adopt before your visit, seek out your new friend when you arrive and keep tabs on them at home with the sanctuary’s live webcams.
Make the day your own, but above all else, fall in love with the herds of donkeys.
Since its humble origins as a charity in 1969, The Donkey Sanctuary has grown from a UK organisation rescuing donkeys from neglect and abuse, into an international animal welfare advocate, transforming the lives of these hardworking animals and the people who depend on them for their livelihood.
Open from 9.30am at weekends and during Devon school holidays until March 2021; admission and parking is free, though donations are welcome to help many more donkeys with troubled pasts live a life of total sanctuary.
Ticket Type | Ticket Tariff |
---|---|
Donations Welcome | Free |
Note: Prices are a guide only and may change on a daily basis.
The sanctuary is situated just 30 minutes from M5 Junction 30 on the A3052 between Sidford and Seaton. On leaving Sidford follow the brown tourist sign at the top of the hill.
By bus
Bus stops are located within easy walking distance for the 899 Axe Valley Mini Travel and 9A Stagecoach (Exeter - Seaton).
By train
Honiton is the nearest station, located 10 miles from the sanctuary.
By bike
Cyclists will find the sanctuary on Route 2 of the National Cycle Network.
By foot
From the South West Coast Path, take a short detour to the sanctuary at Weston Mouth.
This information is self-assessed; therefore we accept no liability for its accuracy. Please contact the venue for further information.
Season (5 Dec 2020 - 28 Mar 2021) | ||
---|---|---|
Day | Times |
* Open weekends and Devon school holidays only
9.30am - The Kitchen and Gift Shop
10.00am - Outdoor areas open
4.00pm - The Donkey Sanctuary closes
The Donkey Sanctuary is closed Christmas Day.
2020 Visitor Leaflet
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