Isle of wight donkey sanctuary
Meet over 100 donkeys and ponies at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary
“Absolutely fabulous place to visit.” 2025 Google review
Set in beautiful countryside, the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary is a forever home to more than 100 rescued donkeys and ponies. With free entry, free parking and a genuinely warm welcome, a visit to the sanctuary is joyful, affordable and a ‘must visit’ for everyone including dogs!
Open 7 days a week | 10am - 4.30pm
useful information & facilities
Perfect for families of all ages
With over 55 acres, the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary offers plenty of space to wander at your own pace. Much of the site is flat with tarmac paths, making it easy for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Quiet paddock walks lead between fields where herds graze, play and snooze together. Many donkeys love greeting visitors and may wander over for a cuddle across the fence.
During school holidays the sanctuary offers free activities, including trails and a free daily guided tour. The daily tour ends with behind the scenes access and a chance to meet a sanctuary donkey expert! The café always has colouring sheets and pencils available for families to enjoy together.
Open all year, the sanctuary is just as welcoming on rainy days, with dry barns full of curious donkeys.
Events at the sanctuary
Throughout the year you’ll find different events on at the sanctuary – from courtyard music sessions to larger events at Christmas. Keep an eye on the sanctuary website for the latest information.
Café, gift shop and dog friendly facilities
Housed in a converted barn, the café serves light meals, snacks and homemade cakes. The delicious sanctuary afternoon tea is popular – please book at least 48 hours in advance.
The gift shop is packed with donkey themed treats, including the sanctuary’s exclusive Hedgerow Gin.
Dogs on short leads are warmly welcomed throughout the site. They can enjoy the free dog station - complete with biscuits, water and blankets - or a doggy ice cream from the café.
Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary Access Guide
Supporting the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary
As a registered charity, the sanctuary is self-funding. Every purchase in the café and shop helps care for the donkeys. Visitors can make donations on site or online, adopt an animal and receive regular updates or book a two hour Donkey Experience to enjoy grooming, mucking out and plenty of cuddles.
Filled with friendly animals, fresh air and peaceful countryside, the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary is an uplifting highlight of any visit to the Island.
Getting There
Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary, Lower Winstone Farm, Wroxall, Isle of Wight, PO38 3AA
Follow Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary
