Ferne Animal Sanctuary
Chard, Somerset and Bristol
About Ferne Animal Sanctuary
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.
Founded in 1939, at the onset of World War II, the charity was established to care for pets whose owners were going to war or who had been displaced by the conflict. Over the years, it has forged strong connections with HM Armed Forces and the Royal Family.
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.
Take the time to enjoy the stunning natural landscape of the Blackdown Hills from our viewing platform. Relax, gaze across the hills, and marvel at the beauty of nature at its finest.
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. The Sanctuary is open to visitors from 10 AM to 4 PM from April to November, and our Gift shop is open 7 days a week, year round, except Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year's Day.
Dog friendly (dogs must be kept on leads) and accessible, Ferne has a good network of tarmac paths. However, due to the number of gates, we recommend that wheelchair users are accompanied. 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. All money raised goes to support our animal care and welfare.
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!
Facilities
Toilets
Gift Shop
Onsite Parking
Accessible Toilets
Wheelchair Friendly
Dog Friendly
Pushchair Friendly
Card Payments Accepted
Opening 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.
Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 1 - 2 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
FAQs
Parking
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink
Accessibility Information
Tickets & Bookings
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Contact Details
Ferne Animal Sanctuary
Wambrook
Chard
Somerset and Bristol
TA20 3DH
England
Tel: 0146065214
Visit Website
Verification & Last Updated
Verified Status:
This attraction has been claimed and verified. All information has been recently checked.
Last Updated: 09:56 19/07/2025
Ferne Animal Sanctuary Reviews
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