Easter fun at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary
Visit us this spring
Spring is a perfect time to visit the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary. The leaves are in bud, the sun is shining (fingers crossed!) and our donkeys are spending much more time in the paddocks. Over the winter we’ve been joined by Lucy and Tilly and Sunny Pony who would love to meet you.
Despite the signs we are open! Here's more information about how to get to the sanctuary during the roadworks.
Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary opening times
We will be opening from 10am to 4.30pm, 7 days a week from Saturday 28 March. Our café is open too, serving delicious food and drinks until 4:30pm. Last hot food orders are at 4pm. Whether you're stopping by for a quick coffee or lunch on the terrace we'd love to see you.
Easter activities for all ages
Spring at the sanctuary is all about getting outdoors and enjoying everything our beautiful space has to offer. There's lots to enjoy:
Free Easter Egg Trail, 28 March to 12 April
Our popular sanctuary Easter Egg Hunt is back! Pick up a trail card when you arrive and follow the route around the sanctuary, keeping an eye out for colourful Easter eggs. Find them all and head to the café to collect your sweet reward.
Decorate an egg competition
Can you decorate an egg to look like a donkey? We’d love to see your creations! Our favourite egg will win an adoption of the donkey of your choice.
Using a boiled or blown egg (no uncooked eggs please) decorate your egg at home and bring it to our Welcome Hub when you arrive. We’ll take your details and contact you if you win!
Free Easter colouring in the café
Enjoy free Easter colouring in the café for our younger visitors and their families.
Music in the Courtyard
Easter Sunday 5 April - Local musicians Chris Mezza and Ricky J will be joining us from 11am to 3pm in the courtyard.
Explore the sanctuary
Daily guided tour at 11.30am - free!
Go behind the scenes and learn more about sanctuary life on our exclusive guided tour.
Guarantee your place
by booking online. A limited number of spaces may be available on the day on a first-come, first-served basis. Tours last around 45 minutes.
Springtime walks
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of spring on the Isle of Wight with a relaxing stroll around our wildlife meadow. Pick up a picnic in the café or bring one with you and soak up our peaceful surroundings.
A special experience
Our unique Donkey Experience
Two hours in a small group (up to two people) with a member of our team - getting up close with our donkeys. Feed, groom, walk, and even help with a bit of poo picking!
Book our Donkey Experience online.
Even more to enjoy at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary
Treat yourself in our café
After visiting our donkeys, why not enjoy a tasty lunch in our café? Our popular and delicious Afternoon Tea makes a special Easter treat.
Easter shopping
Our shop is packed with Easter treats, books, souvenirs and you can even buy a magnet of every animal we have…
Adopt a donkey, pony, mule or horse
All our animals are available for adoption either at the Adoption hub in the café or online.
As always, our wonderful team and animals are looking forward to seeing you.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Easter Egg Trail free?
Yes — our Easter Egg Trail is completely free and runs from 28 March to 12 April.
Do I need to book the Donkey Experience?
Yes, booking is essential as places are limited to small groups.
Are dogs allowed at the sanctuary?
Yes well-behaved dogs on short leads are welcome throughout the sanctuary including in the shop and café.
Is the sanctuary suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs?
Yes the sanctuary is mainly suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. There is more informationon our website.
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