Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary

About

The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary is a loving home for over 100 donkeys and miniature Shetland ponies. Nestled in the picturesque Wroxall valley, near Ventnor, the sanctuary offers free entry and parking. 

An attraction for everyone

We’d love to welcome you to our 55-acre site which has a shop, café, picnic area and beautiful walks and trails to explore. Open all year round, the sanctuary provides an affordable and nature filled visit for all ages. 

About the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary

Since 1987 we’ve been a haven for donkeys and equines in need, offering exceptional care and a loving forever home. Lots of our residents are older or have special health requirements. We’re dedicated to fostering connection and understanding between humans and our animal companions. 

Dog-friendly

We welcome dogs on leads – some of our donkeys really love to meet dogs! Why not treat your four-legged friend to something from our dog menu in the café. We also provide a free dog station with biscuits, water, and blankets. 

Accessibility

We aim make the sanctuary enjoyable for as many people as possible. We are a working farm with some grassy paths, our main areas have tarmac, concrete or gravel pathways. Check out the access guide on our website. 

Support us

As a charity we depend on generous donations and fundraising to continue our work. We don’t charge an entrance fee, but we’d love you to support us with a donation at the sanctuary or on our website.

Want a fun way to support us? Adopt one of our donkeys! You’ll receive an adoption pack and updates throughout the year. 

Our Donkey Experience

Why not go ‘behind the scenes at the sanctuary’ with our unique Donkey Experience. You’ll spend a couple of hours helping care for our donkeys which might include poo picking or mucking out as well as donkey cuddles! 

Q & A sessions

Join us daily at 11am for a free Q & A with a member of our friendly, knowledgeable yard team. You’ll be able to ask everything you’ve always wanted to ask about donkeys, ponies and mules!

Free tour this Summer 

From 26 July to 30 August, we offer a free sanctuary tour with exclusive behind the scenes access. Find out more and book today. 

Groups

We’re proud to host group visits for schools, workplaces, clubs, and more. One delighted coach driver said: 
 “A warm welcome from start to finish and all for a worthy cause, 100% recommend.”

Please get in touch if you need more information about a group visit.

Café and shop

Our onsite café, in a converted barn offers a seasonal range of light meals, snacks, and delicious cakes. Afternoon tea is highly recommended, but please book 48 hours in advance. 

Don’t forget to explore our lovely gift shop which also stocks our bespoke Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary gin. 

About your visit

We’re delighted to welcome you to the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary. When you visit, you’re stepping into our animals’ home that’s also a working farm and a sanctuary open to visitors of all ages and needs.

To ensure the well-being of our residents and the enjoyment of all our visitors, we respectfully request:

* No smoking or vaping anywhere on site, including the car park.
* Please don’t feed our donkeys or ponies. Many of them are on special diets, and even something as small as a blade of grass can upset their sensitive tummies.

Thank you for helping us keep our sanctuary a safe and happy place for everyone. We look forward to seeing you at the sanctuary. 

Other awards

* The Best Large Attraction - SIlver, Red Funnel Award 2023.
* Best Place for Dogs - Red Funnel Award 2022.
* Best Cafe Silver Award - Red Funnel Award 2022.
* Rural Business of the Year - Isle of Wight Rural Awards 2022.
* Rural Tourism Business of the Year - Isle of Wight Rural Awards 2022.