ManorFarm Animal Centre Donkey Sanctuary since opening to the public in 1994 has developed child-focussed activities and facilities to encourage and build youngsters' understanding of the natural world around them. Although not a working farm, they offer children (and their families) a chance to meet animals, find out 'where eggs come from', see the differences between donkeys and horses, ducklings and chicks, etc.

The majority of their animals have either been rescued from certain death or donated to them by owners who found themselves in a position where they could no longer provide the best care for their animals.

A lucky few have actually been born there on the farm.

As animals age, so their health and welfare costs increase. Unlike a commercial farm they will search high and low to find the right treatment. As a result, they have a fund of special stories about our animals - including the blind goose; the time the turkey contracted pneumonia; the goat with no teeth left! All their animals are very carefully monitored to ensure that they are enjoying a good quality of life.

The clean, well-managed paths and public areas provide easy access for all, including wheelchairs, buggies, toddlers and exuberant youngsters. With a range of indoor and outdoor play areas there is something for everyone.

Visitors can enjoy the Young Farmers' Play Barn, Fort Adventure Play Area, living willow structures, picnic and toddler play areas, pond dipping/nature trail – so there is plenty to keep children occupied for a whole day. They also host Birthday Parties and run popular Holiday Club and Forest School Sessions.

The Centre welcomes visits from older groups and to round off a gentle stroll around the animal barns and paddocks they offer excellent teas and snacks in our warm and comfortable Café.

If you've had fun on your family day out to ManorFarm Animal Centre Donkey Sanctuary, tell us about it your visit, so other people will know it's a great place to go as well.

http://www.manorfarm.info/