The Donkey Sanctuary
Tel: 01395 578222
Tel: 01395 578222
Bring out the best in your herd
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 donkeys call home, and they’re all waiting to meet you.
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 the sanctuary has to offer - all year round, whatever the weather. With activities, trails, tours, talks and demonstrations, 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.
You can even adopt your own donkey in the Gift Shop, where you’ll also find quality donkey design products on every shelf. What’s more, every penny of profit goes towards helping millions of donkeys and mules around the world.
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.
From 17 May the sanctuary is open 7 days a week, from 9am to 5pm. 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 |
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Adult - Donations Welcome | Free |
Child - Donations Welcome | Free |
Note: Prices are a guide only and may change on a daily basis.
The sanctuary is situated just 30 minutes from the 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 Honition is the nearest station, located 10 miles from the sanctuary.
By bike Cyclist 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.
Open Christmas |
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Open New Year |
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The Donkey Sanctuary (17 May 2022 - 31 Dec 2022) | ||
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Day | Times | |
Monday - Sunday | 09:00 | - 05:00* |
* *The Donkey Sanctuary is closed Christmas Day
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