The Donkey Sanctuary

The Donkey Sanctuary, Weston, Sidmouth, UK
1-90 Years

Description

The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth, UK, is a calm and heartwarming place where visitors of all ages can meet and connect with hundreds of rescued donkeys. This free-to-visit, award-winning attraction offers a relaxing and meaningful day out on the beautiful Jurassic Coast. It’s perfect for families, nature lovers, or anyone seeking a peaceful experience with animals.

Guests can explore scenic coastal walks, award-winning gardens, and engaging exhibits throughout the sanctuary. Meet friendly donkeys like Percy the fluffy Poitou, or Cocoa enjoying his golden years, and enjoy fresh, local food at the on-site restaurant. Special herds include adoption donkeys and Mediterranean Miniatures.

Admission is completely free, making it an affordable and accessible destination for everyone.

With free parking, picnic areas, a gift shop, and a welcoming café, The Donkey Sanctuary is a unique place full of charm and compassion. It’s not just a visit—it’s a chance to slow down, connect with animals, and enjoy nature in a tranquil setting .

Features

  • Free
  • Host birthday parties: No

Features

Sidmouth is home to a variety of donkeys including Mediterranean Miniature donkeys, the main herd and adoption donkeys, and the giant long‑haired Poitou donkeys  . Notable residents include Percy the Poitou—the sanctuary’s largest adoption donkey with a distinctive long, thick coat—alongside Maverick and Peanut, both miniature donkeys, plus other named herd members like Cocoa, Drizzle, Walter, Zena, Ashley, Tat, Jasper, Jimmy, Theo, Tornado, and Cleo .

Facilities

  • Food & Drinks: Restaurant to dine-in or takeaway.
  • Parking: Free and disabled parking.
  • Picnic areas: Dry seating areas for picnics.
  • Toilets: Toilets including wheelchair-accessible.
  • Gift shop: Gift shop with donkey-themed items.

Price

Price: Free

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

Open to the public seven days a week from 9am - 5pm.

Address: The Donkey Sanctuary, Weston, Sidmouth, UK

Post Code: EX10 0NU

Council: East Devon

County: Devon

  • By Bus: Local bus routes serving The Donkey Sanctuary include the 899 Axe Valley Mini Travel, And Stagecoach 9A between Exeter and Seaton.
  • By Car: The nearest motorway to The Donkey Sanctuary is the M5, which serves the West Country. Getting off at Junction 30 at Exeter will take you on the A3052 for 13 miles until you reach the sanctuary. The A35 and the A30 also serve East Devon and the Jurassic Coast.
  • By Bike: We are bike-friendly and The Donkey Sanctuary sits on Route 2 of the National Cycle Network. The route between Sidmouth and Lyme Regis passes Trow Farm on Dunscombe Lane. Continue on Dunscombe Lane, crossing over the roundabout, until you reach the sanctuary’s main visitor entrance. There is a bike rack (uncovered) at the main entrance.

5.00

0 Reviews

Rating breakdown

5
80% Complete (danger)
0
4
80% Complete (danger)
0
3
80% Complete (danger)
0
2
80% Complete (danger)
0
1
80% Complete (danger)
0

Get the best blog stories into your inbox!