Yes. Ferne is open every day except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. In the summer, the sanctuary is open from 10.00am until 5.00pm with last entry at 4.00pm. In the winter the sanctuary opens at 10.00am and closes at 4.00pm with last entry at 3.00pm.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

There is a café on site. Whilst situated at Ferne, Nina’s is separate to the 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.