The Donkey Sanctuary

Nestled in Sidmouth's picturesque landscape, The Donkey Sanctuary stands as a testament to compassion, offering a refuge for rescued donkeys and mules while promoting their welfare and celebrating the enduring bond between humans and these gentle creatures.

Visitor Information: The Donkey Sanctuary

• The Donkey Sanctuary

  Description

  Nestled in the rolling hills of Sidmouth, Devon, The Donkey Sanctuary is not just a typical animal refuge. It stands as a beacon of compassion, dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and lifelong care of donkeys and mules from all over the world.

  Origins and Mission: Founded in 1969 by Dr. Elisabeth Svendsen, The Donkey Sanctuary began as a small endeavour fuelled by a singular vision: to protect donkeys from suffering and neglect. Since then, the sanctuary has grown exponentially, rescuing thousands of donkeys and mules, and expanding its reach to numerous countries worldwide. Today, it is a global movement, advocating for the welfare of these gentle creatures, promoting their humane treatment, and providing educational resources on their care.

  Donkeys: More Than Just Animals: Donkeys have been human companions for thousands of years, assisting in transportation, agriculture, and more. The Donkey Sanctuary recognizes the intrinsic value of these animals, treating them not just as livestock, but as sentient beings deserving of love, care, and respect. Each donkey at the sanctuary has a story, and the dedicated team ensures that every tale has a happy ending.

  Visitor Experience: While primarily a welfare institution, The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth is also an immersive experience for visitors:

  1. Meet the Donkeys: Walk the grounds and interact with the friendly residents, each with its own unique personality and history.
  2. Guided Tours: Learn about the sanctuary’s mission, history, and the individual stories of the donkeys.
  3. Education Hub: Engage in workshops, demonstrations, and sessions that spread awareness about donkey welfare and care.
  4. Tranquil Gardens: Stroll through beautiful gardens, offering a peaceful respite and views of the Devon countryside.
  5. On-site Café: Enjoy refreshments while gazing out at the fields dotted with grazing donkeys.

  Beyond Sidmouth: The Donkey Sanctuary’s impact goes beyond the boundaries of Sidmouth. With projects and partnerships across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas, the organization actively campaigns against the mistreatment of donkeys, addresses challenges in the donkey trade, and provides emergency relief and care.

  The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth is more than just a shelter for donkeys; it’s a testament to the profound bond between humans and animals. A visit to this sanctuary is not only an opportunity to meet these endearing creatures but also a chance to become part of a movement that champions compassion, care, and coexistence. Whether you’re an animal lover or simply seeking a peaceful day out in the countryside, The Donkey Sanctuary promises a heart-warming experience.

• Highlights

  Not to be missed when visiting

  Heartfelt Origins: Founded in 1969 with a dedicated mission to rescue and rehabilitate donkeys and mules.

  Meet & Greet: Interact with the sanctuary’s gentle residents, each having a unique backstory.

  Guided Tours: Dive deep into the sanctuary’s history and mission through knowledgeable guides.

  Education Hub: Participate in workshops and sessions emphasizing donkey care and welfare.

  Picturesque Gardens: Wander through serene gardens offering breath-taking views of Devon’s countryside.

  On-site Café: Savor refreshments while overlooking pastures of grazing donkeys.

  Global Impact: Recognize the sanctuary’s worldwide advocacy against donkey mistreatment and its extensive outreach.

  Special Events: Attend seasonal celebrations, fundraising events, and awareness campaigns hosted by the sanctuary.

  Gift Shop: Take home souvenirs that contribute to the sanctuary’s mission.