Ferne Animal Sanctuary

Chard

Save up to 25% with a family ticket

Book Ferne Animal Sanctuary tickets & enjoy a peaceful day out in Somerset

Set amongst the beautiful Blackdown Hills, Ferne Animal Sanctuary offers a unique day out where animal welfare, nature and relaxation come together. Home to over 300 rescued animals, the sanctuary provides a safe and loving home for animals from difficult backgrounds while welcoming visitors to explore its peaceful grounds, woodland trails and family-friendly attractions.

  • Visit a genuine working animal sanctuary caring for over 300 rescued animals
  • Explore peaceful woodland walks and scenic countryside trails
  • Discover inspiring rescue stories and the history of Ferne since 1939
  • Relax at Perdida's Café with hot drinks, light lunches and sweet treats
  • Enjoy seasonal trails, quizzes and activities for younger visitors
  • Support a charity dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals
  • Every visit helps provide lifelong care for animals in need

Ferne Animal Sanctuary in Somerset

  • Location: Wambrook, Near Chard, Somerset TA20 3DH
  • Suitable for: All ages
  • Open: Daily from 10am - 4pm (last entry 3pm)
  • Tickets Include: Entry to the sanctuary grounds, woodland walks, visitor centre and family activities

Meet rescued animals, enjoy beautiful walks & support an incredible cause

Ferne Animal Sanctuary offers a different experience to a traditional zoo or animal attraction. First and foremost, Ferne is a working sanctuary where animal welfare always comes first.

The sanctuary's residents have the freedom to live on their own terms in spacious environments designed around their needs. Some animals may choose to spend their day grazing in open fields, others may relax in quieter areas away from visitors, while some may be receiving essential care, treatment or training from the dedicated animal care team.

Because of this, no two visits are ever the same. You may see lots of animals during your visit, or you may only spot a few. Ferne encourages visitors to enjoy the sanctuary as the animals do - at a slower pace, surrounded by nature, with the understanding that the animals choose when and how they interact with their surroundings.

  • Working Sanctuary: Experience a genuine rescue sanctuary where animal welfare takes priority
  • Over 300 Rescued Animals: Home to farm animals, birds, horses and domestic animals
  • Freedom for Animals: Residents can roam, relax and retreat as they choose
  • Woodland Walks: Explore peaceful trails through the Somerset countryside
  • Visitor Centre: Discover Ferne's history and inspiring rescue stories
  • Perdida's Café: Enjoy refreshments, lunches, cakes and hot drinks
  • Gift Shop: Browse gifts and treats while supporting the sanctuary
  • Family Activities: Seasonal trails, quizzes and activities for younger visitors
  • Dog Friendly: Well-behaved dogs are welcome on leads
  • Supporting Rescue Work: Every visit helps fund the care of rescued animals

Please note that animals available for rehoming are not part of the visitor experience. Cats and dogs for rehoming can only be met through Ferne's rehoming process, following a successful application and arranged appointment.

Book Ferne Animal Sanctuary tickets today and enjoy one of Somerset's most peaceful days out while helping provide a brighter future for rescued animals.

Location

Ferne Animal Sanctuary

Wambrook,
Chard,
Somerset,
TA20 3DH
Show on Google Maps

How to find us

By car: 

From the A30 turn onto James Lane. Follow this for 1.4 miles then, staying on James Lane, go around to the left and continue for 0.2 miles then turn left onto our driveway (signposted Ferne) and follow along (carefully) until you arrive at the Sanctuary car park.

Facilities
  • Nina's Café
  • Gift shop
  • Pet supplies shop
More Info
Is Ferne Animal Sanctuary open all year?

Yes. Ferne is open every day except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. 

  • Opening Hours: Thursday - Monday: 10am - 4pm, all year round
Can I pet or feed the animals at Ferne Animal Sanctuary?

Ferne does not hold petting sessions at the sanctuary. Most of the resident animals have come from difficult circumstances, some have suffered at the hands of people and as a result, have some behavioural issues or anxiety around people. Many of them also have complex dietary needs and extra food could make them ill.

How long should I allow for my visit at Ferne Animal Sanctuary?

Most visitors spend up to three hours wandering around and enjoying the sanctuary, many stay much longer and treat themselves to a delicious lunch in Nina’s.

Is there a children’s play area at Ferne Animal Sanctuary?

Yes, there is an outdoor play area situated at the lower end of the sanctuary and Ferne also has a children’s area in Nina’s.

Is Ferne Animal Sanctuary accessible to wheelchair users?

Ferne has a very good network of tarmac paths but due to the operations of the sanctuary, there is a large number of gates so it is recommended that wheelchair users are accompanied by an able bodied person. Ferne also has designated parking spaces for wheelchair users and visitors with special needs next to the Visitor Centre as well as in the main car park.

Do I have to pay to park at Ferne Animal Sanctuary?

Parking at the sanctuary is free but space is limited so it is recommended that you arrive early to avoid disappointment. The main visitor car park is a short incline walk from our Visitor Centre with several accessible parking bays; three additional spaces for visitors with special needs are just outside the Visitor Centre for easy access.

Is there a café at Ferne Animal Sanctuary?

Yes, Ferne Animal Sanctuary is home to Perdida @ Ferne, and features a beautiful decked area overlooking the lake with vegetarian and vegan options.

Please note: There is no children's play area in Perdida.

Can I bring my dog to Ferne Animal Sanctuary?

Well-behaved dogs are welcome to visit the sanctuary. They must be kept under control on a short lead. Dogs are also welcome in the café.

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