The Donkey Sanctuary

The Donkey Sanctuary near Sidmouth is a registered charity that provides sanctuary from suffering to donkeys and mules worldwide.

It is open from 9am until dusk every day of the year.

No charge is made for admission or car parking as the sanctuary considers that, being a charity dependent on the support of the public, visitors should be able to see it's work free of charge.

Gifts and information about the work of the charity are available from the visitor's centre, and the hayloft restaurant offers delicious meals and snacks! We also welcome dogs to visit us as long as they are on leads!

There are many children's events at our wonderful Sanctuary. Why don't you join the donkey hunt, or make some crafts in our indoor area to take home!

In the UK, Ireland and parts of Europe, the charity has provided a sanctuary for life to over 14,500 donkeys and mules and currently cares for 5,000 at its Sanctuaries in the UK, Cyprus, France, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Romania and Spain; guaranteeing a life of loving, expert care to each of them. Our overseas team work to help these loyal, long suffering animals with major programmes in India, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya and Mexico.

Many animals arriving at its Sanctuaries each week are unwanted or have been neglected. Others come from loving homes for a secure future due to health reasons, for companionship, or the owner's circumstances may have changed.