The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth
Founded in 1969 by Dr. Elisabeth Svendsen, The Donkey Sanctuary has been a home to over 14,500 donkeys in the last 40 years. Open 5 days a week, this sanctuary has grown from a small operation into an internationally renowned organization, dedicated to the welfare of donkeys worldwide. A 15 minuet drive south of Honiton, the sanctuary is free to the public with its sprawling fields, cozy barns, and dedicated staff. Visitors are greeted by the heartwarming sight of donkeys roaming freely, each with their own unique personality and story to tell. Indulging in the walk around the sanctuary on summer days, surrounded by beautiful country views leads you to a restaurant, cafe, picnic area and park for the whole family to enjoy. If you ever find yourself in Devon, a visit to The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth is not just an opportunity to connect with the endearing donkeys but also to support a great cause dedicated to their well-being.
Devon’s South Coast gems
Along the stunning coastline of Devon, lie some of the country’s most captivating beaches. Sidmouth, Seaton and Branscombe are a few of the most popular beaches, each offering its own unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and coastal charm. The warming Devon coastline beaches are only a short 18-20 minuet drive away, through the lovely country roads Devon has to offer. For those seeking adventure, Sidmouth offers excellent opportunities for water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. For those seeking adventure, Seaton is the gateway to the Southwest coastal path, offering breathtaking coastal walks with spectacular views at every turn. Alternatively, Seaton Tramway provides a journey through the stunning Axe Valley, allowing you to take in the scenic landscape beauty. Alternatively, spend your days exploring the rocky shoreline of Branscombe, searching for hidden caves and rock pools. For a taste of local history, a visit the Branscombe Maritime Museum is a great hit!
The Hare and Hounds
As you approach The Hare and Hounds just off the A375, you’re greeted by the sight of a beautifully preserved sixteenth century building. The Hare and Hounds is one of Honiton’s most popular pub and restaurant which is a 7 minuet drive south of Honiton. With its delicious self-serve carvery, culinary delights and local flavours, the pub offers a menu that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Devonshire. Using local food and drink, the pub comes alive with the locals and regulars who fill the pub with a friendly and warm atmosphere as they delve into the freshly served food and drinks. The pub features a welcoming bar area, where you can enjoy a selection of local ales including Otter Ales, fine wines, and expertly crafted cocktails, served with a smile by the friendly staff. In the warmer summer months, the beer gardens open providing the perfect spot to soak up the sunshine and savor a delicious meal.
Offwell Woods
Spanning over 200 acres, Offwell Woods is a place of serenity and tranquillity, offering a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Towering oak and beach trees outline the woodland trails with their intertwining branches forming a cosy canopy overhead. Beneath your feet, a carpet of moss, ferns, and wildflowers adds a splash of colour to the woodland floor. Within the depths of the forest lies a kingfisher pond full of flourishing wildlife including butterflies, woodpeckers, squirrels, deer’s and many insects too. To reach the kingfisher pond you must cross the wobbly stepping stones overlooking a small waterfall to find yourself in the best picnic spot for the family! The woods offer a chance to reconnect with the natural world and find peace amidst the beauty of Devon’s countryside and is also a fantastic educational spot for younger children with workshops and school trips to develop an understanding for our wonderful woodlands.
Dunkeswell Aerodrome
Located 13 minuets away on the Blackdown hills in Devon, Dunkeswell the highest licenced aerodrome in the UK, started life as a WW2 Naval Base and is now a vibrant and busy hub for the general adventurous community. The aerodrome offers a range of breath-taking adventures including a 30-minuet spitfire flight around Exeter and Torbay allowing you to take in sights like never before. Skydiving is the most popular activity at the aerodrome with a range of freefalls including a 7,000ft Tandem, a 10,000ft Tandem and a 15,000ft Tandem giving you the buzz of a lifetime! Alongside skydiving, another popular activity is wing walking which is not for the faint hearted. A range of training also takes place at the aerodrome consisting of flight training, helicopter training and microlight training.
