Frequently Asked Questions
Can we see all the animals when visiting?
Due to us not applying for our zoo license, our “exotic” animals are no longer on public display. You can read our initial statement from 30th January here.
Can we just turn up without booking?
Yes, you’re welcome to pay on the door, but you do receive discounted rates when booking online!
Are we allowed to come and meet a group of friends at the sanctuary?
Yes, you’re welcome to visit with your friends!
How long can we stay?
As long as you want (during our open hours!).
Can we park our car?
Yes we have plenty of FREE on-site parking.
What should we wear?
It can be muddy during winter so please bring suitable footwear and sun cream and hats for the summer months.
Can we touch the animals?
Some of the animals are quite shy due to their life before the sanctuary, so unfortunately you can’t touch all of them – some of them may come over and say hello though! Please remember to sanitise your hands before and after touching any of the animals.
Can we feed the animals?
We have a strict no feeding policy at Hopefield – due to the nature of our animals being rescues, a lot of them are old or poorly, so are on special diets. You can always help feed our animals by donating towards their food.
Do you accept credit and debit cards?
Yes, we do.
Do you accept cash?
Yes our Gift Shop / Entrance and Max’s Café both accept cash.
Do you offer a family ticket?
Yes, our family ticket is available for £28.00 (2 adults & 2 children, or 1 adult & 3 children) when booking online, or £34.00 on the gate.
What food and drink is on offer?
Max’s Café serves sandwiches, baguettes, cakes, snacks, and hot & cold drinks. You can eat inside the tearoom, the tearoom marquee, or out outdoor eating area located in the events field.
Can I bring a picnic?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring a picnic with you. We have picnic tables set up in our Events Field.
Can I drop my children off and pick them up later?
No, you must stay with your children for your entire visit.
Is Hopefield wheelchair accessible?
We have an accessible toilet on site, along with an entrance to our Gift Shop and Max’s Café. However, most areas of the sanctuary are on grass / mud / woodchip terrain which can become very muddy and uneven during the wetter months, and wouldn’t be accessible by wheelchair unfortunately.
Can we bring a pushchair?
You’re welcome to, but please be aware that most areas of the sanctuary are on grass / mud / woodchip terrain which can become very muddy and uneven during the wetter months, and would be difficult to push a pushchair through unfortunately.
Are there places to wash our hands?
Yes there are plenty of hand-washing stations on site. Please remember to use these frequently during your visit.
Is there anything I need to know if I am pregnant?
We are home to several cats and goats, so please be aware of this before visiting.
What is your smoking policy?
We do not allow smoking or vaping anywhere on site.
Do you have first aiders?
We have numerous staff that are qualified first-aiders. Please use the office, gift shop, or Max’s Café as your points of contact if you need a first aider during your visit. You can call us on 01277 201110.
Are dogs allowed into the sanctuary?
Yes we welcome you to bring your furry friend as long as they’re friendly and remain on a lead at all times.
Do you have disabled parking?
Unfortunately not.
Have a question?
If you have another question that is not listed here, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us via the contact details below:
Have a question?
If you have another question that is not listed here, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us via the contact details below:
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