On our recent visit to the Isle of Wight, we decided to make a visit to the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary. We spent a wonderful few hours here and the animals we encounters certainly had in impact on us.
The sanctuary is set in the rolling countryside, surrounded by fields and hedgerows. As soon as I parked up, I could hear gentle braying drifting through the air. The entrance is free (though donations are very much encouraged), and there’s an instant sense of calm when you walk through the gates.
There are wide open paddocks, neat gravel paths, and little signs introducing you to each donkey by name. No rushed crowds, no pressure to spend — just the simple joy of being among animals that are clearly loved and well cared for.
Within minutes, I was greeted by a grey donkey named Dora who slowly wandered over to the fence, ears flicking back and forth. She was more interested in a back scratch than anything else, and honestly, I was more than happy to oblige.
Meeting the Donkeys
What struck me most was how much personality each donkey has. I’d always thought of donkeys as quiet, gentle animals (and many are), but here, you quickly realise they’re all individuals. They all have their own special characters. Most of the donkeys love the gentle strokes and affection from the visitors, others prefer to keep themselves to themselves. Which is perfectly understandable ,some donkeys have been rescued from terrible conditions.
Throughout the sanctuary, there are clear boards explaining where each donkey came from. Many were rescued from neglect, abandonment, or situations where owners could no longer care for them. Reading their stories was moving — some were genuinely heartbreaking — but seeing them now, healthy and content, was incredibly uplifting.
The Sanctuary’s Mission
The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary isn’t just a place to look at cute animals (though there’s plenty of that). It’s a registered charity dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and lifelong care of donkeys in need. They care for more than a hundred donkeys and ponies, and rely entirely on donations, fundraising, and the work of volunteers.
I really admired the sense of community here. There’s a small gift shop, a cosy café, and opportunities to “adopt” a donkey for a year to support their care. Adoption packs make lovely gifts, and you get regular updates about your chosen donkey. I saw several families picking out their favourites to adopt — it was sweet to watch kids proudly choosing “their” donkey.
Walking Around the Sanctuary
One of the things I loved most was how accessible and family-friendly the sanctuary is. Paths are pushchair-friendly, there’s plenty of seating, and it’s easy to spend as long or as little time as you like.
Children were clearly having the time of their lives, pointing out donkeys, giggling at the braying, and gently stroking the animals. But it’s not just for kids — I noticed plenty of couples, groups of friends, and solo visitors like me, all happily wandering around.
It’s the kind of place that slows you down. There’s no rush, no pressure. Just space to enjoy simple moments with these lovely animals.
A Peaceful Café Stop
Before leaving, I stopped at the on-site café for a coffee and a slice of homemade cake (highly recommend the carrot cake, by the way). From the outdoor seating area, you can watch the donkeys grazing in the paddocks. It’s peaceful in a way that’s hard to describe — the sort of quiet that makes you breathe a little deeper.
I ended up sitting there for nearly half an hour, just watching them. There’s something grounding about donkeys. They don’t demand attention, they don’t perform — they’re just themselves. And that, in a world that often feels rushed and loud, is surprisingly comforting.
The Donkey Sanctuary on the Isle of Wight is open 7 days a week, 10am – 4:30pm. There’s no need to book, just turn up. Entry is free but donations are greatly appreciated. There are toilet facilities on site and parking is free and on site.
