Hayling Island Donkey Sanctuary is Open to Visit…

The donkeys and volunteers are pleased to welcome visitors on weekends, Wednesdays and Bank Holidays only.  Given we are only a small site, despite the governments Covid restrictions being lifted on the 19th July, we will continue to limit the number of visitors at any one time by continuing with our booking system. (Please see How to book a visit).

We have given much thought to how we can manage the visiting experience as we have found the magical appeal of the donkeys is gaining interest in the local community and beyond. 

It is truly wonderful that so many people want to visit the donkeys and support the sanctuary but this brings its own challenges given we are only a small independent sanctuary with limited space and facilities such as parking. There are some changes in place to make the increase in visitors possible outlined below and will need your help and cooperation to make it work.

How to book a visit:

Choose your preferred visiting date from those available.

Choose your preferred visiting time from 10.30am, 12.30pm and 2.30pm. You will be given one and a half hours from your chosen time to enjoy the sanctuary and its residents.

You can book your visit via our booking number 07720204685 between 10am and 4pm. If we are unable to answer please leave a message and we will return your call.

Give a lead persons name and contact number, stating how many people will be in your group.   

On the day of your visit:

To aid the flow of people and traffic please do not arrive too early, 10mins will be ample, our attendant will book you in and show you where to park.

In order for you to touch the animals we insist on you sanitising your hands on entry as well as during your visit, this is in addition to washing your hands before you leave.

Daphne’s Tea trailer will be open serving delicious home made cakes and other refreshments, there is seating available for your use both inside and out. Please remain Covid cautious and respect other people personal space.

Our cabin shop is also open with lots of donkey related merchandise, Donkey Adoptions can be made here or online whilst at home. We are happy to take both cash and card payments. It is no longer mandatory to wear a mask but we advise you to wear one in the shop, please sanitise your hands on entry.

The exit can be found via the hand wash station and will take you back to where your car is parked. Please even if you have sanitised previously wash your hands with soap and water on leaving.

There is a toilet on site which you are welcome to use, it will be cleaned regularly for your comfort and safety.

We do not charge an entrance fee to visit the sanctuary, however, a donation is greatly appreciated. Any profits from the purchase of any product on site or donations you may make will go directly to providing the daily care these wonderful creatures need. 

Dogs on leads are very welcome.

 Adoption visits:

A open day is a perfect opportunity to see your adopted donkey and give them some attention over the fence. Despite Government Covid restrictions being lifted on the 19th July we are still operating a Covid secure site and will not be offering close supervision one to one meetings with your donkey to ensure the essential workers at the sanctuary are not put at risk.

We look forward to seeing you soon…  Thank you!

Hayling Island Donkey Sanctuary Team