Radcliffe Donkey Sanctuary

The Radcliffe Donkey Sanctuary sits just outside Alford in Lincolnshire, and it does exactly what it says on the tin - gives a home to rescued donkeys and lets you spend time with them. You're looking at a hands-on animal encounter rather than a zoo in the traditional sense. You can feed and pet the animals, watch them potter about the paddocks, and learn a bit about donkey welfare in the process.

It's brilliant for families with younger kids who actually want to interact with animals rather than stare at them from a distance. Older children might find it a touch dull if they're after more action, but anyone with a soft spot for donkeys will find it genuinely moving. The staff are clearly passionate about the animals' rehoming work, and there's a real sense of purpose to the place rather than just entertainment for entertainment's sake.

The sanctuary works well as a half-day stop during a wider park holiday around the Lincolnshire coast. You're barely ten minutes from the cluster of caravan sites near Sutton-on-Sea and Anderby - The Nurseries, Cottage Waters, and Cherry Tree Springs are all within spitting distance. Perfect for breaking up a week of seaside time with something a bit different. Pop in, let the kids feed some donkeys, grab an ice cream in Alford, and you've got yourself a decent morning out. Allow a couple of hours maximum. Ring ahead to check current opening hours and admission charges before you head over.