The Donkey Sanctuary among readers’ favourites in regional awards

The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth has added to its tally of recent awards by picking up two more, this time in the 2025 Primary Times Star Awards.

The popular free family attraction in East Devon, which is home to around 200 resident donkeys, scooped the Best Half Day Out award, and runner up in the Best Value for Money category, as voted by readers of the Devon edition of the Primary Times family magazine.

The Primary Times accolades follow a whole host of top regional awards for The Donkey Sanctuary and it’s onsite restaurant The Kitchen in 2025 - including golds from Devon Tourism, Taste of the West and Food Drink Devon.

Laura Drummond, Visitor Marketing Officer at The Donkey Sanctuary, said:  “Picking up two awards in the Primary Times Star awards is a great start to the year and recognises our commitment to offering families a fun and affordable day out in East Devon. It’s such a joy to see children and their families engaging with our wonderful donkeys and learning more about these fascinating and often misunderstood animals.

“We are extremely grateful to all those who voted for us and look forward to welcoming everyone back again in 2026.”

Primary Times was established in 1989, and caters to parents, pupils and educators within the primary school sector across the UK. With 61 regional editions in circulation, it is the largest family magazine in the United Kingdom.

The sanctuary in Sidmouth attracts more than 400,000 visitors a year, making it a major regional destination, as well as a benefit to many other local businesses too. The Donkey Sanctuary is open seven days a week, from 9am until 4pm. Entry and parking are free, and dogs on leads are welcome.

Sidmouth | Visit Our Sanctuary | The Donkey Sanctuary