Have a scream this Halloween at The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth, Devon

Have a scream this Halloween with the trick or treat trail, pumpkin carving and brave the bat beacon if you dare!

With yummy treats and the odd trick, there is ‘spooktacular’ fun for all to be had at The Donkey Sanctuary this October half term.

Trick or Treat trail
20–31 October, 9am – 5pm
Do you know what can be given to donkeys as a special treat and what they should never have? Enjoy an autumnal adventure around the sanctuary with family and friends, finding the tricks among the treats – and you’ll receive something good to eat. Just £3 per trail including a prize on completion.

Pumpkin carving
22–28 October, 11am – 3pm
Get creative and have a go at carving your spooky masterpiece for just £3 per person, ready to take home and show off at Halloween.

Bat Beacon
20–31 October, 9am-5pm
If you go down to the woods today, you’re sure of a big surprise! Visit the creepy Nature Centre nestled in the Hermitage Woods and discover more about the wildlife who call the sanctuary their home, including the different species of bat that use the woods, hedges and fields to hunt for insects.

So, get the family outdoors this autumn and meet some of the hundreds of friendly donkeys who are cared for in Sidmouth, including the gentle giant Poitou donkeys, the lovable adoption donkeys and ever-so cute miniature donkeys.

The sanctuary constantly update their programme of things to do and see, so make the most of your visit with fascinating tours, talks and demonstrations delivered by knowledgeable staff – just head to the main entrance on arrival for all the details.

Come rain or shine they’ve got you covered with their exciting new indoor attractions, where you’ll discover just why donkeys are so special through fun, interactive displays in the new Exhibition Barn, Understanding Donkeys Zone and Dr Svendsen’s Hut. And the fun doesn’t stop there; have a go at the maze, looking resplendent in its autumn colours and see if you can find your way to the middle and back out again – without getting lost!

When it’s time to rest those weary feet, take a break at The Kitchen restaurant; overlooking the donkeys’ paddocks and Jurassic Coast, it is a great spot in which to relax with freshly-prepared, wholesome dishes using local and ethically sourced produce. And before heading home, a visit to the brand new Gift Shop is a must for all those unique donkey-design items and gifts to suit every pocket.

Entry and parking at the sanctuary is FREE. Dogs on leads are welcome.

Further information

All proceeds help fund the work of The Donkey Sanctuary Worldwide.