We’re delighted to share some eggcellent news – Hopefield will be reopening to visitors on Wednesday 27 March, perfectly timed for the Easter holidays and ahead of our much-loved Easter Fun Weekend, taking place from 4–6 April. We can’t wait to welcome you back for fresh air, family fun, and of course, seeing our rescued animals enjoying the spring sunshine.
Many of you ask why Hopefield closes over the winter months. From December through to spring, our focus has to be entirely on our animals. Winter brings extra challenges: increased feed and bedding costs, higher veterinary and care needs, colder temperatures – and yes, a lot of mud! Our animals always come first, and closing to visitors during this time allows our small team of humans to give our residents the extra care and attention they need to stay happy and healthy.
As a registered charity and one of the few animal sanctuaries in Essex open to visitors, this closed season means we have no visitor-generated income, while our costs are actually at their highest. Every animal at Hopefield has been rescued and given a safe, lifelong home, and we rely entirely on the kindness of our supporters to make that possible. A huge thank you to everyone who has contributed to our Winter Campaign so far – your support through our JustGiving fundraiser truly makes a difference and helps carry us through until reopening. For anyone who would like to send a few pennies our way, the link is HERE.
Thank you for standing by us, supporting rescued animals, and helping Hopefield be here for them – all year round. We can’t wait to see you again very soon.
