Hayling Island Donkey Sanctuary is Re Opening…

We are pleased to announce we are opening to visitors weekends and Wednesdays from 1st May with the addition of Bank Holidays.  10.30 am to 4.00 pm by appointment (Please see How to book a visit).

As you know we have been closed for a large part of a year, during this time 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.

For your safety and improved visiting experience we have limited the number of visitors on site at any one time this means in order to make a visit you will need to book in advance.

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 from the 19th April between 10am and 4pm via our booking number 07720204685. 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 take away home made cakes and drinks, there is seating available for your use but please observe government guidelines and maintain social distancing.

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. Please note it is mandatory to wear a mask in the shop and we will also ask you 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. Unfortunately, due to social distancing guidelines and the need for supervision we are unable to allow visitor entry to the compounds to offer one to one meetings with your donkey.

We look forward to seeing you soon…  Thank you!

Hayling Island Donkey Sanctuary Team