The Sidmouth Donkey Sanctuary

The Sidmouth Donkey Sanctuary at Slade House Farm near Sidmouth is a donkey lover’s paradise. The Sanctuary owns 9 farms where they keep many dozens of donkeys but Slade farm is home to some of the older donkeys.

The day that we went we enjoyed seeing such old timers as Eeyore, who’s in his late 30s. I was amazed to see how long some of the donkeys had lived; some are over 40 years old.

The donkeys all wear collars with their names on, so it’s easy to see who is who. Some are named after their previous owners whilst others have very imaginative names, one of my favourites is Twiggy – you can see her in the picture, she doesn’t look very much like her namesake fashion model but she’s a lovely donkey.

It’s not just about the donkeys though. Set in beautiful East Devon countryside you can enjoy the surroundings just as much as the animals. There are five different walks, including a footpath to the sea at near by Weston Mouth.

Oh yes! Don’t miss the new maze either - it’s a really good one. When we first went the beech hedges were still quite small so you could see over the top into other parts of the maze. When they get just a little taller it’s going to be quite a challenge to find your way around. [If you enjoy mazes there’s another good one at Escot]

You will find that you need to bring a picnic so that you can make the most of your time here. There is so much to see and enjoy, especially if you have children.

Many of the animals here have come because their owners have grown old or become sick and they cannot care for their favourite. In fact, that’s how the Sidmouth Donkey Sanctuary began in the first place.

In the early 1970s Dr Elisabeth Svendsen was left a legacy of 204 donkeys. At the time she and her husband were running the Salston Manor Hotel but Dr Svendsen loved donkeys. Her friends knew this and that’s why they knew that she would find a way to take care of the more than 200 animals.

Now the centre has grown to its present day size. They care for all kinds of donkeys and train owners to look after them. There are now centres throughout the UK where you can receive this training, which is provided by the charity free of charge to all that take part.

Because they are a charity and funded by donations the Sidmouth Donkey Sanctuary does not charge for admission, although you can give them a donation as an expression of appreciation for the fun day out that you will surely have.

Return to Family Days Out page from Sidmouth Donkey Sanctuary