Discover a different side of Ferne Animal Sanctuary this winter

Summer might seem like the obvious time for a day out in the countryside, but winter brings a character all of its own to Ferne Animal Sanctuary.

Set among the Blackdown Hills near Chard in Somerset, Ferne is open throughout the winter and offers the chance to enjoy the sanctuary at a gentler pace. There are animals to discover, peaceful countryside to explore and plenty to learn about the work that goes on here every day – followed by the welcome prospect of something warm at Perdida café.

Whether you’re looking for a family day out in Somerset, somewhere to enjoy a winter walk or simply an excuse to get outside, here are a few reasons to discover a different side of Ferne this winter.

Is Ferne Animal Sanctuary worth visiting in winter?

Absolutely. Winter can be one of the most peaceful times to explore the sanctuary.

Wrap up warm, follow the paths around the site and take the opportunity to slow down and see what the animals are doing. The quieter atmosphere can make it easier to appreciate both the residents and Ferne’s beautiful countryside setting.

It is worth remembering that Ferne is first and foremost a working animal sanctuary, rather than a zoo or petting attraction. The welfare of the animals always comes first, and they are free to rest, forage or shelter whenever they choose.

That means no two visits are exactly the same – and winter offers a chance to experience the natural rhythms of sanctuary life at a particularly peaceful time of year.

What animals can you see at Ferne in winter?

More than 300 animals call Ferne home, including horses and ponies, sheep, goats, pigs, cattle, rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets and a variety of birds.

Exactly who you see will depend on the weather and the animals themselves. Some may choose to spend more time in their shelters when it is cold, while others will be out enjoying their paddocks and enclosures.

Ferne’s larger grazing animals are also moved around different areas of the sanctuary as the team manages their needs and the land, so there is always something different to look out for.

Enjoy a winter walk in the Somerset countryside

The animals are only one part of the experience. Ferne is set in a beautiful landscape in the Blackdown Hills, overlooking the River Yarty Valley, making it a lovely place to spend some time outdoors even during the colder months.

A clear winter day brings crisp air, ever changing views and the chance to explore at a more relaxed pace. There are also seasonal trails and activities at different points throughout the year, giving families another reason to explore the sanctuary.

Sturdy footwear is always a good idea during winter, particularly after wet weather, and it is worth checking Ferne’s website or social channels before travelling if conditions are particularly poor.

Is Ferne good for children in winter?

Ferne offers plenty for younger visitors to discover. The Visitor Centre is a good place to start, with information about the sanctuary, maps and details of any trails or activities taking place during your visit.

A day at Ferne is also an opportunity for children to learn more about animal welfare. They can discover why animals sometimes need rescuing, why individual animals have different needs and why giving them choice, space and time is such an important part of caring for them.

And because the experience is not built around performances or guaranteed animal encounters, every visit can be different and encourages a little patience and curiosity too.

Discover the story behind Ferne

Winter is also a good opportunity to learn more about Ferne’s remarkable history. The sanctuary was founded in 1939 by Nina, Duchess of Hamilton and Brandon, after she recognised that people forced to leave their homes during the Second World War needed somewhere safe for their animals to go.

An appeal through the BBC helped begin a story of animal care that continues more than 85 years later.

Visitors can find out more in the Visitor Centre, where Ferne’s history helps put the work taking place across the sanctuary today into context.

Warm up at Perdida

No winter day out is complete without somewhere warm to retreat to afterwards. Ferne’s on-site café, Perdida, serves breakfast and lunch alongside coffee, cakes and other refreshments, with a predominantly plant-based menu and vegetarian options.

You don’t need to enter the sanctuary to visit the café, so it can also be enjoyed as a destination in its own right.

Next to the café you’ll also find Ferne’s gift and pet supplies shop, where purchases help support the charity’s work.

Planning a winter visit to Ferne Animal Sanctuary

Is Ferne open in winter?
Yes. The sanctuary is currently open seven days a week from 10am to 4pm, with last entry at 3pm. Ferne is closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

How much does it cost to visit?
Current standard admission is £5.95 for adults, £4 for children aged 3–16 and £18 for a family of two adults and up to three children. Gift Aid prices are also available.

Booking available here: https://www.ferneanimalsanctuary.org/product-category/day-pass/

Can I see the cats and dogs who are waiting to be rehomed?

The rehoming cattery and kennels are not accessible to standard admission ticket holders. Many of the animals who are waiting to find their forever home have been through some form of trauma, so we protect their wellbeing by only allowing pre-booked visits by potential adopters.

If you want to know more about the welfare of the animals in our rehoming facilities, you may want to book a Behind the Scenes Tour. Prices start from £10 per child to £15 per adult ticket. Booking available here: https://www.ferneanimalsanctuary.org/product-category/behind-the-scenes/

What are Perdida café’s opening hours?
Perdida is currently open daily from 10am to 3pm.

Can I bring my dog?
Yes. Well-behaved dogs are welcome but must be kept on a short lead and under control as some of our animals are free range.

Is there parking?
Yes. Free parking is available, including designated accessible parking close to the Visitor Centre.

Where is Ferne Animal Sanctuary?
Ferne Animal Sanctuary is at Wambrook, near Chard, Somerset, TA20 3DH.

Opening times, prices and activities can change, so please check the Ferne website before travelling.