Devon Days Out – The Donkey Sanctuary

The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth

It’s Daddy’s birthday tomorrow but I’ve got to work so we thought we’d have a day out today and have some fun.

The Donkey Sanctuary had their annual Summer Fair so we thought we’d head there for the day with a picnic.

The Donkey Sanctuary

It was completely heaving when we arrived.

There were loads of stalls, entertainment, and activities to do as well as being able to see all the lovely donkeys.

We went with family so it was really nice being able to spend the day together.

The boys had a go at welly wanging and Isabelle had a go at a human fruit machine. I so should have recorded it as there were hands sticking out of holes holding up fruit and when the bell rang, if they were holding up the same you won.

Isabelle won a knitted donkey on the tombola which she loved, and she then made a bear on a stall that was similar to Build a Bear.

We had a huge picnic and then Isabelle presented her birthday cake that she took ages to make yesterday. It was a Choca Mocha Cake (recipe to follow).

The Donkey Sanctuary

The place was packed and there were dogs everywhere. We didn’t think to bring Charlie with us, so we know for next time we visit.

After eating and listening to music we went for a walk around to see all the donkeys.

The Donkey Sanctuary

So what do you call a cross between a donkey and a horse?

A honkey or a dorse.

Well, it’s a mule actually. I didn’t even know that this was a thing until we saw two horses, and the keeper in the pen told us they were in fact mules. They don’t look very donkey-like, more horsey.

All in all, it was a lovely day and we’d definitely go again.

 

The Donkey Sanctuary

The Donkey Sanctuary

Have you been to the Donkey Sanctuary? We were there on Sunday for the Family Farm Day but unfortunately, it poured down with rain. We did, however, make a trip round to see the many donkeys and grab an ice cream.

The Donkey Sanctuary was founded in 1969, by Dr. Elisabeth Svendsen where she dedicated her life to rescuing abandoned and mistreated donkeys. You can read more about her amazing story and life’s work on the Donkey Sanctuary Website as well as info on how you can help.

A Donkey from the Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth

What’s on?

During the School Holidays from 21st July – 3rd September 2017 they are running an Around the World Trail. You can pick up a trail sheet for £3.00 and can collect your ice cream prize at the end.

Entry into the Donkey Sanctuary is FREE as is the car park.

There are loads of donkeys to see along many trails including the giant Poitou Donkeys.

Discover the path to the beach through the Field of Dreams or follow the guided walks.

Take part in the twice-daily donkey grooming and lose yourself in the maze.

They also have a newly built restaurant called The Kitchen serving locally-sourced hot and cold food to suit both adults and children.

All proceeds taken at the Donkey Sanctuary go towards the work that takes place on-site and worldwide.

A couple of people stroking a donkey at the Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth

As well as being family-friendly, the Donkey Sanctuary is pram and wheelchair-friendly. You can also take your four-legged friends with you as long as they are on a lead.

The Donkey Sanctuary makes for a great chilled-out day. Ruffle the heads of a donkey or two and make sure that you stay for feeding time where you will see all the donkeys running and honking towards the food!

They also run events throughout the year so keep an eye on their Facebook Page for upcoming details.

For more great places to visit in Devon, take a look at our Devon Days Out Page for more suggestions.

•Images from www.donkeysanctuary.org.uk