Ferne Animal Sanctuary is set within 72 acres of beautiful & protected countryside, in the Blackdown Hills on the Devon/Somerset border. This charitable sanctuary takes in unwanted, abandoned and neglected animals and gives them a fantastic life either at the sanctuary or by finding them a special forever home.
Ferne Animal Sanctuary, located near Chard in Somerset, is a remarkable and nearly unique facility dedicated to the rehoming of dogs, cats, and horses. In addition to this, the sanctuary provides ongoing care and welfare for a wide variety of animals, including sheep, goats, cattle, pigs, geese, chickens, and an aviary housing birds from around the world. It is also home to smaller animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas and ferrets, ensuring they all receive the care and attention they need.
Animal Sanctuary set in the stunning Blackdown Hills
Ferne Animal Sanctuary is set within 72 acres of beautiful & protected countryside in the Blackdown Hills on the Devon/Somerset border. This charitable sanctuary takes in unwanted, abandoned and neglected animals and gives them a fantastic life either at the sanctuary or by finding them a special forever home.
Over 300 resident animals to see in their natural habitat
A typical visit to Ferne lasts between 90 to 150 minutes, during which visitors can enjoy observing the animals in their natural habitats. The experience includes a sensory garden designed to calm the senses with a variety of sounds, sights and smells. Visitors can explore the Willow Walk, which offers insights into animal care, as well as informative displays about our water voles, dragonflies, birds, and fungi. There's also a machinery wall showcasing equipment used throughout the years, along with a small play area for our younger visitors.
Creative Corner offers a range of crafts for younger visitors
During the school holidays, Creative Corner offers a range of animal-themed activities and arts and crafts. We also host special events and workshops throughout the year, with full details available on our website. Our well-stocked pet supplies and gift shop has everything you need for your animals, as well as delightful treats to tempt you.
We also have a wide range of pre-loved pet supplies so you can grab a bargain while you are here!
Attraction Details
Opening Times
Regular Times
Monday,10:00 - 16:00
Tuesday,Closed
Wednesday,Closed
Thursday,10:00 - 16:00
Friday,10:00 - 16:00
Saturday,10:00 - 16:00
Sunday,10:00 - 16:00
Easter - October Half Term
Gift Shop/Pet Supplies Open 10-4pm YEAR ROUND
Pricing & Tickets
Child (5-16): £4.00
Adult (17+): £5.95
Adult £5.95
Child (age 5–16) £4.00
Family ( two adults and up to three children) £18.00
Our annual pass
£17.00 Adult
£10.00 Child (age 5–16)
£55.00 per family of two adults and up to three children.
Under 5's Free Of Charge
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
Find other attractions similar to Ferne Animal Sanctuary by visiting our attraction tickets section.
Facilities
Toilets
Gift Shop
Onsite Parking
Accessible Toilets
Wheelchair Friendly
Dog Friendly
Pushchair Friendly
Card Payments Accepted
Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 1 - 2 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
FAQs
We don’t hold petting sessions at the sanctuary. Most of our residents have come from difficult circumstances, some have suffered at the hands of people and as a result, have some behavioural issues or anxiety around people. Many of them also have complex dietary needs and extra food could make them ill.
Yes, there is parking.
No, there is no parking fees.
There is on-site parking available
No, parking can not be pre-booked or reserved.
Yes, there are accessible spaces for visitors with disabilities.
The main visitor car park is just a short walk from the Gift Shop and entry to the Sanctuary
Yes, there are toilets available to the public.
Yes, there are baby changing facilities available
Yes, there are accessible toilets available
Yes, there are baby changing facilities.
Yes, all areas are pushchair friendly.
No, there are no breastfeeding rooms available.
Yes, Ferne Animal Sanctuary is dog friendly
Well behaved dogs are welcome to visit the sanctuary. They must be kept under control on a short lead.
Yes there is dining and snack options.
A small selection of sandwiches, crisps, snacks and hot & cold drinks are available from the Gift Shop/Visitors Centre
Yes, guest are allowed to bring their own food
There are a number of picnic areas around the Sanctuary where visitors can enjoy the views
For a typical family of 4, food and drink costs around £20.
Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible.
Ferne has a very good network of tarmac paths but due to the operations of the sanctuary we have a large number of gates so we recommend that wheelchair users are accompanied by an able bodied person. We have designated parking spaces for wheelchair users and visitors with special needs next to our Visitor Centre as well as in the main car park.
No, wheelchairs cannot be rented.
No, special assistance is not available.
Yes, Ferne Animal Sanctuary is wheelchair friendly and has accessible toilets.
Ferne has a very good network of tarmac paths but due to the operations of the sanctuary we have a large number of gates so we recommend that wheelchair users are accompanied by an able bodied person. We have designated parking spaces for wheelchair users and visitors with special needs next to our Visitor Centre as well as in the main car park.
No, Ferne Animal Sanctuary had stated that you do not need to pre-book.
Yes, Ferne Animal Sanctuary has stated that you can hire privately for parties/events.
Looking for the perfect party for your little ones? Look no further! The dedicated party room at Ferne Animal Sanctuary is ideal for up to 30 children. Enhance your party by adding tickets to the sanctuary, offering a walk on the wild side, or keep it classic with our in-house activity officer* for a fun-filled experience. We can organise catering for your event and party gifts can be supplied by our gift shop – ensuring a paws-itively fantastic time!
*Subject to availability.
£15 per hour for room hire
Yes, private catering can be provided.
The maximum number of guests allowed is 30.
Directions
Ferne Animal Sanctuary
Ferne Animal Sanctuary, Wambrook, Chard, Somerset and Bristol, TA20 3DH, England