We’re open every day from 10am to 4:30pm – and it’s completely free to visit!

Summer has arrived, and if you're looking for a family day out, the sanctuary is the perfect place to add to your list.

Take a stroll along our walkways, pause on one of the many seating areas and take in the peaceful atmosphere. Whether you’re watching the donkeys enjoying the sunshine or simply relaxing with a cup of tea or an ice cream, there’s plenty of space. Dogs are also very welcome, so they can come along for the adventure too!

This Summer at the Sanctuary

We’ve got an exciting line-up of activities running throughout the school holidays:

Free daily guided tours
Join one of our behind-the-scenes tours, available daily at 11:30am. You’ll get a closer look at how we care for our donkeys and the stories behind their journey to the sanctuary. Some spaces are available to book on arrival, but to avoid disappointment, we recommend booking ahead.

Daily Q&A at 11am
Want to learn more about the donkeys? One of our friendly yard team members will be available every morning to answer your questions and share their insights.

Sunny Turns 10! – Sunday 27 July
We’re throwing a party for our much loved donkey, Sunny who was born here. Join us for a day of fun and celebration, plus the exciting opening of Sunny's Sandpark enrichment area.

Meet the Author – 20 July & 27 August
Local author David Goodday will be with us to launch his new children's book, The Search for Donkey Paradise. He’ll be signing copies – don’t miss the chance to meet him and hear more about his heart-warming story, inspired by donkeys at our sanctuary.

Nature catch ups

Come along and meet other local nature organisations on Wednesdays over the summer.

23 July - Wight Squirrel Project

30 July - Save our Hedgehogs Isle of Wight

20 August - Isle of Wight Badger Trust

27 August - RSPB (TBC)

Music in the Courtyard
Live music returns this summer with two Community Music in the Courtyard events on 20th July and 24th August. Enjoy a laid-back afternoon with performances from talented local musicians.

Diabetes testing for young people - The Elsa Study

Wednesday 13 August 10am to 3pm.
The team from the Elsa Study will be here testing young people ages 3 to 13 for type 1 diabetes as part of a research study. Register online in advance.

Add a little extra to your visit

Want to make your day even more special? Treat yourself to a delicious Afternoon Tea, or for a more hands-on experience, book one of our Donkey Experience sessions. You’ll learn about our day-to-day care routines and enjoy some one-on-one time with our donkeys.

There’s never been a better time to visit the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary. With so much to see and do this summer, why not pop in and meet the donkeys? We’d love to see you – and so would they!