Description
Looking for the best things to do with kids in Great Yarmouth? Redwings Caldecott is an expansive and welcoming animal sanctuary providing a brilliant home to over 100 rescued horses, ponies, donkeys, and mules. It provides an engaging day out where visitors can meet rescued animals face-to-face, enjoy outdoor walks, and learn about equine welfare in a peaceful countryside setting.
Admission to the visitor centre is completely free of charge, with no entry or gate fees required for families. Visitors can choose to support the charity through voluntary donations, gift shop purchases, or by adopting one of the resident animals.
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that combines gentle outdoor exploration with heartwarming animal encounters, this destination is an ideal choice. It offers a relaxed, budget-friendly environment where children can see friendly long-eared donkeys, majestic horses, and playful ponies up close.
Beyond the Main Attraction
- Caldecott Hall Golf and Spa: Leisure facilities situated within the broader estate grounds for adult visitors.
- Fritton Lake: Picturesque woodland lake area nearby offering scenic nature walks and outdoor activities.
- Great Yarmouth Beach and Golden Mile: Traditional seaside resort attractions just a short drive away.
- Somerleyton Hall and Gardens: Historic stately home and maze located just across the Suffolk border.
What Visitors Love:
- Admission and parking are entirely free, making it an exceptionally budget-friendly day out for families.
- The atmosphere is peaceful, uncommercialized, and focused heavily on animal welfare and education.
- Staff members are exceptionally warm, welcoming, and eager to share stories about the rescued animals.
- The chance to get close to friendly donkeys and ponies provides a memorable experience for young children.
What Visitors Don't Like:
- The centre is closed three days a week (Tuesday through Thursday), requiring careful trip planning.
- Public transport options to the rural location are very limited, making a car essential.
- Certain grass tracks can become muddy or difficult to navigate during wet winter weather.
Attractions & Live Exhibits
- The Rescue Donkeys: Over 30 long-eared donkeys and mules including resident favorite Esther.
- Large Equine Residents: Heavy horses, cobs, and crossbreeds like Fox.
- Shetland and Small Ponies: Miniature equines including cheeky character Sampson.
- Educational Display Hub: Information boards, tactile exhibits, and learning stations about animal welfare.
- Walking Trails: Padded and grassy perimeter paths winding around the main stable yards and fields.
New for 2026
- Expanded Visitor Welcome Zones: Upgraded reception and arrival points designed to help families navigate the sanctuary grounds more easily.
- Refreshed Paddock Signage: Newly updated educational touchpoints detailing individual rescue stories for each horse and donkey.
- Enhanced Path Maintenance: Improved walking routes across primary visitor areas to support smoother pushchair access.
11.29 miles
