Open to visitors from Easter 2026
Open to visitors from Easter to end of October 2026
We would love you to visit the donkeys and support the work we do, we plan to open to visitors Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays and some Bank Holidays, from Easter to the end of October 2026. Very wet winters leading to waterlogged ground has become the norm over the last few years, as a result we have revised our visiting schedule to try and work around it and are happy to welcome you from Easter 2026 up the end of October. Our plan is to open extra days during the dryer summer months to give you more opportunity to enjoy the donkeys company.
We know many of you like to visit during the festive season and we are sorry if our decision has affected that, but we are committed to donkey care and must put their needs first..
Why are we so concerned about wet ground conditions?
We must remember donkeys originated from dry arid countries and were only brought to this country by the Romans as they were used to carry goods and equipment. Their hooves are absorbent, looking to soak up moisture in order to keep them in good condition in dry conditions, but in our current climate they soak up too much and become softer often leading to issues such as Seedy Toe and Foot Abscesses.
To manage the problem we try and keep them out of wet areas, give them access to hardstanding areas, footpaths, sandpits and deep straw beds in their houses.
You can help!
The special care we give the donkeys is only made possible with your love and support, for ways you can help please see the Supporting Us page of our website. https://www.haylingdonkeys.co.uk/supporting-us/