Showcasing our new enriching super donkey paddock, a member of our conservation team will explain how donkeys are integral to…
No trip to Devon is complete without visiting The Donkey Sanctuary.
There’s a tranquil corner of the Jurassic Coast near Sidmouth that hundreds of friendly donkeys call home, and they’re all waiting to meet you.
This free-to-visit, award–wining attraction has something special to offer, whether you’re looking for quality time with the kids, or somewhere calming to kick back with coffee and cake.
Explore everything the sanctuary has to offer, from scenic walks and award-winning gardens, to a new play area, hedge maze and engaging exhibits. With activities, trails and talks there’s so much to explore with your own herd, whatever the weather. Friendly dogs on leads are welcome too!
Take sanctuary in the Taste of the West award-winning restaurant and enjoy fresh, local, seasonal produce while soaking in the unparalleled coast and country views. Or adopt your own donkey in the Gift Shop, where you’ll also find quality donkey design products on every shelf. What’s more, every penny of profit goes towards helping millions of donkeys and mules around the world.
From humble beginnings as a UK rescue mission over 50 years ago, The Donkey Sanctuary has grown into the world’s largest equine welfare charities.
Open 7 days a week, from 9am to 5pm. Admission and parking is free, though donations are welcome to help many more donkeys with troubled pasts live a life of total sanctuary.
What's on at The Donkey Sanctuary
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is it to get into the Donkey Sanctuary?
It is free admission to the Donkey Sanctuary but you can give a donation online
Are dogs allowed in the Donkey Sanctuary?
Dogs are welcome in the sanctuary but they must be kept on a lead at all times. Dogs are also welcome in The Kitchen restaurant but please keep them under your table and out of the walkway at all times
Is there a cafe in the Donkey Sanctuary?
The Kitchen is our award-winning restaurant open daily from 9am to 4pm serving breakfast from 9am to 11am and lunch from 11.30am to 3pm. Drinks, snacks and cakes are available all day every day. We offer the option of dining in the restaurant or you can purchase a takeaway to enjoy in the outdoor picnic areas
Awards
![visit england gold accolade](https://www.devonstopattractions.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/Gold-2022-23-251x500.png)
![](https://www.devonstopattractions.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/TOTW_Gold_2023-500x500.jpg)
![](https://www.devonstopattractions.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/TC_2022_LL_GREEN_BG-2-424x500.png)
![Devon's Large Attraction of the Year 2018](https://www.devonstopattractions.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/devon_tourism_gold_2018-01-1-353x500.jpg)
![Devon Tourism Awards 2019 silver logo](https://www.devonstopattractions.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/devon-tourism-SILVER-2019-01-354x500.jpg)
![Bronze South West Attraction of the Year](https://www.devonstopattractions.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/south_west_2018_-_2019_bronze-01-500x353.jpg)
![Devon Primary Times Star Reader Awards 2019 logo](https://www.devonstopattractions.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/DEV-WINNER-Half-Day-500x500.jpg)
![Devon Muddy Stilettos Awards 2019 logo](https://www.devonstopattractions.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/60956058_2225699000831944_6096897048097849344_n-500x333.jpg)
![2019 Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence Award](https://www.devonstopattractions.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019_COE_Logos_white-bkg_CMYK_translations_en-US-UK-2x-100-500x375.jpg)
![Visit England Quality Assured attraction](https://www.devonstopattractions.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/Visitor-Attraction-Quality-Marque-347x500.jpg)