The Donkey Sanctuary

Blissful happiness at The Donkey Sanctuary

Located just 30 minutes from Exeter and nestled in the tranquil East Devon countryside in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, The Donkey Sanctuary’s working farm is home to donkeys, mules and hinnies, large and small. At the heart of the sanctuary near Sidmouth, visitors can meet some of the hundreds of donkeys waiting to say hello - completely free of charge. The resident donkeys love to meet new people and their unique characters and stories are ready to be discovered.

Explore the sanctuary’s new indoor attractions including Visitor Centre, Understanding Donkeys Zone and Dr Svendsen’s Hut, and find out just why donkeys are so special. Embark on a fun, interactive journey into the far reaching work of The Donkey Sanctuary and the vital lifeline donkeys provide for communities around the world. Try on some theatre scrubs and lab coats in the Understanding Donkeys Zone; the place to learn everything about the sanctuary’s wonderful residents. No visit is complete without visiting Dr Svendsen’s Hut to learn the story of the sanctuary’s much-loved founder.

There are also guided walks, scenic trails, meet the groom sessions twice daily, the Nature Centre and a Maze to lose yourself in, as well as regular events held throughout the year and activities during school holidays.

When it’s time to take a well-earned break, relax in the sanctuary’s new family-friendly restaurant, The Kitchen, where you can enjoy local and ethically sourced food alongside spectacular views over the donkeys paddocks down to the sea. Hearty breakfasts, delicious lunches and tempting afternoon treats are served daily between 9am and 5pm*. And before heading home, don’t forget to pop into the new Gift Shop for a selection of quality gifts and donkey-design items to suit every pocket.

The Donkey Sanctuary was founded as a charity in 1969, by Dr Elisabeth Svendsen MBE. They currently have an incredible 6,300 donkeys in their care worldwide. Admission and parking is free (donations welcome) and the sanctuary is open from 9am – dusk, 365 days a year. Dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a lead, and many of the farm trails are access and bike-friendly.

* 4pm from November to February.