Description
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
Ferne Animal Sanctuary in Somerset is an almost unique working animal sanctuary offering rehoming to dogs, cats and horses; together with ongoing care and welfare to sheep, goats, cattle, pigs, geese, chickens and an aviary with dozens of birds from all over the world, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas and ferrets!
Founded in 1939, at the breakout of WW2, in order to care for pets whose owners were going to war, or otherwise displaced by the conflict, the charity has links to HM Armed Forces and The Royal Family.
A typical visit would last 90-150 minutes during which, as well as seeing the animals enjoy their own habitat, there is a sensory garden with sounds, smells and mirror images to calm the senses; our Willow Walk with information on animal care; information boards about our water voles, dragonflies, nearby birds and fungi; A machinery wall to learn about the equipment used throughout the years and a small play area with climbing frames.
Take time to simply enjoy the amazing Natural Landscape that is the Blackdown Hills on our viewing platform; there are only 36 in England and 46 in the UK! Simply gaze across the hills and take time out, relax and marvel at nature at its’ best!
There are trails and activities happening everyday in our Creative Corner, a place for animal welfare education through arts and crafts. As well as events throughout the year, the details are on our website. We open from 10-5 in the summer, close at dusk in the winter. Open 7 days a week, closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. We have a lovely pet supplies and gift shop for all your animal needs and to tempt you with wonderful presents.
Dog friendly (keep on lead), fully accessible. All money raised goes to support our animal care and welfare.
We also do offer birthday parties if you could add this one as well:
Birthday Parties
Unleash the Party Fun at Ferne Animal Sanctuary!
Looking for the ultimate party for your little ones? Look no further! The dedicated party room at Ferne Animal Sanctuary is the perfect space for up to 30 kids. Whether you're a DIY dynamo or prefer a stress-free catered event, we've got you covered. A Ferne Animal Sanctuary party can take your party for a walk on the wild side when you add tickets to the sanctuary to your party plan, or keep it classic with our in-house activity officer. Our catering team serves up scrumptious hot and cold delights, complete with a birthday cake and party gifts – All for a paws-itively fantastic time!
Image Gallery
Opening Hours
Pricing
£15 per hour for room hire
Plus £25 for activity officer
£3.95 - £7.95 per child catering
Plus birthday cake from £15.50
Plus party gifts from £1.50 per child
Additional costs may apply
Facilities
CHILDREN & INFANTS
ESTABLISHMENT FEATURES
PARKING & TRANSPORT
PET INFORMATION
SPECIALIST FEATURES
TRAVEL & TRADE
Road Directions
Nearest major road is A30. Three miles west of Chard on the A30. Follow brown tourist signs.
Public Transport Directions
Nearest railway station is Axminster. No other public transport available.
Contact
Ferne Animal Sanctuary
Wambrook
Chard
Somerset
TA20 3DH
United Kingdom
T: 01460 65214
E: visitor@ferneanimalsanctuary.org
W: ferneanimalsanctuary.org/