The Donkey Sanctuary

No trip to Devon is complete without a visit to the Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth, a heartwarming and inspiring destination where you can meet dozens of friendly, gentle donkeys. Nestled in the stunning countryside along the Jurassic Coast, this unique sanctuary offers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re an animal lover, nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun and relaxing day out with the family, the Donkey Sanctuary has something to offer everyone.

From humble beginnings over 50 years ago as a small UK-based rescue effort, the Donkey Sanctuary has grown into one of the largest equine welfare charities in the world. Today, it stands as a beacon of hope for donkeys and mules in need, not only across the UK but around the globe. The sanctuary's mission is to provide lifelong care and rehabilitation to mistreated, abandoned, or retired donkeys, and every visit helps support this important cause.

Explore the sanctuary’s beautiful grounds, which feature lush paddocks, scenic countryside walks, and panoramic views of the coastline. Daily donkey talks are held where you can learn all about the lives and personalities of the donkeys and hear touching stories about how they came to find a safe haven here. For families, the sanctuary is an especially magical place.

Children can engage with interactive exhibits, enjoy the outdoor all-natural play area, or take on the challenge of the sanctuary’s maze. But be warned – don’t get lost and miss the chance to take part in our seasonal children’s trails! Speaking of trails, the sanctuary offers engaging themed activity trails all year round.

These cost just £5 per trail sheet, which includes a small prize for completion. These trails are a great way to explore the sanctuary in a fun, educational, and interactive way, combining physical activity with brain-teasing clues and delightful surprises along the way. They're perfect for keeping children entertained while learning more about animal welfare and the environment.

One of the newest and most exciting additions for 2025 is the miniature donkey paddock. This dedicated area is home to an adorable herd of miniature donkeys, who may be small in size but are big in personality. Their colourful coats range from deep chestnut browns to creamy greys, and they love nothing more than playing, exploring, and socialising with visitors.

Their paddock has been specially designed to provide a rich and stimulating environment, and watching them go about their daily fun is a true highlight. No visit is complete without a stop at The Kitchen, the sanctuary’s Taste of the West award-winning restaurant. Overlooking the donkey paddocks and coastal landscape, The Kitchen serves up fresh, local, and seasonal meals every day, including hearty breakfasts, wholesome lunches, and indulgent afternoon treats.

For those in a hurry, takeaway options and ice creams are also available. Before you leave, be sure to browse the gift shop for a special keepsake. Proceeds support the sanctuary’s work, and the shop is full of delightful gifts, including cuddly donkey toys, books, mugs, and fun souvenirs.

Don’t forget to check out the new Bat Beacon exhibition too, developed in partnership with the Devon Wildlife Trust. This interactive display introduces visitors to the fascinating world of bats and their role in local ecosystems. The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.

Entry is free, as is parking, and well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome. Donations are always appreciated and help ensure the donkeys continue to receive the love and care they deserve. Whether you're a returning visitor or experiencing the sanctuary for the first time, a visit here is sure to leave you with lasting memories — and maybe a soft spot in your heart for donkeys, too.