Home > Things To Do in Devon > The Donkey Sanctuary
Just outside the town of Sidmouth, the Donkey Sanctuary is home to around 500 donkeys. Set in unspoilt farmland and countryside, visitors return time and again to meander among the donkeys and absorb the serene and relaxed surroundings.
The Donkey Sanctuary was founded by Dr. Elizabeth D. Svendsen, MBE in 1969 and was registered as a charity in 1973.
The aims of the Donkey Sanctuary are to prevent the suffering of donkeys worldwide through the provision of high quality, professional advice, training and support on donkey welfare. In the UK and Ireland permanent sanctuary is provided to any donkey in need of refuge.
In the UK and Ireland the Donkey Sanctuary has taken over 11,800 donkeys into its care. Many of these have been rescued after having been cruelly neglected and others come from loving homes for various reasons, perhaps due to a change in the owners' circumstances, illness or moving house.
Visitors are free to spend as much time as they wish meeting the donkeys in the main yard who adore fuss and attention. Visitors may also stroll along our various field walks or ramble down to the sea, pausing at the Nature Centre and conservation area on the way.
Monday 09:00 - 17:00
Tuesday 09:00 - 17:00
Wednesday 09:00 - 17:00
Thursday 09:00 - 17:00
Friday 09:00 - 17:00
Saturday 09:00 - 17:00
Sunday 09:00 - 17:00
Bank Holiday 09:00 - 17:00
| Ticket Type | Ticket Tariff* |
|---|---|
| Donations Welcome | free |
| Donations Welcome | free |
Note: Prices are a guide only and may change on a daily basis.
The Donkey Sanctuary is at Slade House Farm, near Salcombe Regis. Do not drive into Sidmouth or Salcombe Regis. Look for the brown tourist information signs on the A3052 between Sidford and the turning for Branscombe.
899 - Axe Valley bus (Sidmouth to Lyme Regis)
X53/X54 Coastlink Bus (Exeter to Bournemouth)
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