'Brilliant' free day out with donkeys and play park is 'must visit' for families

Devon is a popular destination for UK staycations, with no shortage of attractions. From the Jurassic Coast to Dartmoor National Park, there's something for all ages. One attraction that's a favourite with tourists looking for a free day out is The Donkey Sanctuary.

Found in Sidmouth, the sanctuary was recently awarded a 2025 Travellers' Choice Award from Tripadvisor, and fans say it's fun for the whole family. The dog-friendly attraction has won high praise from lots of visitors, with one saying it is "great for couples and families" alike. Others praised the East Devon attraction as a "must visit."

As The Donkey Sanctuary's website explains, the sanctuary is an international animal welfare charity with locations in Sidmouth, Belfast, and Derbyshire. All of the sanctuaries are free to visit, and no booking is required for the Sidmouth site (while the Belfast and Derbyshire sanctuaries open on selected dates).

The Devon sanctuary has a play park, leafy maze, indoor exhibitions, picnic areas, gardens, restaurant, and, of course, lots of donkeys. There's also a £5 Donkey Passport Trail running until September.

The website adds that the site offers free and disabled parking. It also has step-free access and wheelchair friendly paths, as well as wheelchair-accessible toilets.

On Tripadvisor, one happy visitor said: "A must visit! Just a beautiful place, well organised and free to park and to see hundreds of donkeys! So well cared for and a great sanctuary for them."

A second commented: "Unbelievable that this place is free. Such an immaculate and well organised day out, donkeys are absolutely spoilt and live in the most wonderful surroundings. So many staff, proper gorgeous restaurant/cafe and interesting. Ice creams, play park and the whole place is dog friendly. You can’t miss this."

Another wrote: "Absolutely brilliant, well worth a visit. Lots to see and do. With or without children. Good food at a great price. We have been twice now."

Another fan shared: "Stunning day out, great for couples and families. Absolutely fantastic day out to The Donkey Sanctuary." Someone else added: "Lovely place to visit.

"Donkeys are very well looked after. Nice cafe on site. We visit every year when we are on holiday. Would definitely recommend. Great place for children."

The Donkey Sanctuary is in Sidmouth, Devon, and its postcode is EX10 0NU. Free parking is available.