Free entry
Now closed to the public until the next open day in May 2025.
Situated near Buxton, our Derbyshire sanctuary covers almost 30 acres. Although not open to the general public, we hold five open days between May and September.
Our Derbyshire sanctuary holds open days on the first Sunday of the month between May and September each year. Please note that we have a limited number of cars that we can accommodate on our farm so pre-booking is required.
Please check back on this page for updates on our 2025 open days.
We welcome well behaved dogs on site, but they must be kept on a lead at all times.
Facilities
What can I expect from my visit?
Come and meet our staff and get ‘hands on’ with the donkeys. The donkeys enjoy all the extra fuss and attention and it’s a lovely day for all.
Our Derbyshire sanctuary covers almost 30 acres and provides permanent refuge to a small number of donkeys, some of whom are elderly and have long-term medical conditions. Fit and healthy donkeys that are relinquished into the Derbyshire Centre may be put forward for our Rehoming Scheme where they will be rehomed with one of our Guardian families.
Refreshments and catering will be available.
Getting here
You can find us by car, bus or bike.
Our Derbyshire sanctuary is open to the public once a month from May to September.
Telephone: +44 (0) 1298 83866
The Donkey Sanctuary Derbyshire is located along the A515. The turning is just passed the Bull in the Thorn campsite and cafe.
Local bus routes include the 58 and 441 bus services which will take you to the Bull in the Thorn bus stop.
National Cycle Network Route 68.
Contact us
If you have questions relating to Harbin’s retirement, please do not contact the team at Derbyshire directly as staff are busy looking after the donkeys. Please contact our supporter services team and we will pass your enquiry on to the relevant team.
For matters relating to our Derbyshire sanctuary please contact our Derbyshire team.