The Donkey Sanctuary

About

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, from award-winning gardens and scenic coast path walks to engaging exhibits - all year round, whatever the weather. With activities, trails, tours and talks, there’s so much to explore with your own herd. Friendly dogs on leads are welcome too!

Go on an interactive journey through the global work of The Donkey Sanctuary in the Exhibition Barn, discover all things donkey in the Understanding Donkeys Zone, take a walk in the woods or lose yourself in the maze. And there’s lots of family events and donkey experiences throughout the year, including overnight camping if you fancy a ‘Bray and Stay’!

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. Hearty breakfasts, 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.

Groups of any size are welcome and free parking is available on-site, with a dedicated coach lane for easy drop-off at the main entrance. Groups can also benefit from great value menus in The Kitchen restaurant, which include a free guided tour or talk and a free meal for the driver when pre-booked at least one week in advance. Call 01395 578222 to book.

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 daily from 9am, 365 days a year, admission and parking are free, though donations are welcome to help many more donkeys with troubled pasts live a life of total sanctuary. The main grounds of the sanctuary are accessible by wheelchair and, in dry weather, several of the sanctuary’s other walks leading to more donkey groups are fairly level. Wheelchairs and a mobility scooter are available to borrow, subject to availability.