Willows Animal Sanctuary - Image 1

Willows Animal Sanctuary

Fraserburgh, United Kingdom•4.8(208)•Farm, Wildlife Center

Visit hundreds of rescued animals including horses, donkeys, cats, and farm animals in their natural sanctuary homes, plus a vegan coffee shop and nature walks.

Willows Animal Sanctuary is Scotland's largest ethically managed equine, farm, and domestic animal sanctuary, established in 1998 as a registered charity. The sanctuary provides permanent homes for nearly 100 horses and ponies, approximately 70 cats and dogs, over 80 sheep, and many other farm animals and birds—many of which have been rescued from neglect or abuse. Visitors can see these rescued animals living in as natural an environment as possible, where they have the opportunity to heal and simply be themselves. The sanctuary offers multiple attractions for family visits, including a dedicated Donkey Barn, Nature Walk, Mindfulness area, Beastie House, and Education room. The on-site Vegan Coffee Shop serves sandwiches, soup, and cake, while the gift shop features ethical and fair-trade items and second-hand books. A charity shop and dedicated shop selling vegan food and cheese are also available. The venue operates a strict no-kill policy and specializes in helping elderly and vulnerable animals that have been refused assistance elsewhere. Willows is suitable for families and visitors of all ages interested in animal welfare and conservation. By visiting, guests directly support the sanctuary's ongoing rescue and care work. Please note: the sanctuary is currently closed to regular visitors until Easter 2027, except for designated Open Days and Special Events. Contact the venue for current visiting information.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: Closed
Friday: Closed
Saturday: 10:30 – 16:00
Sunday: Closed

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor & Outdoor

Typical visit duration

1-3 hours

Booking

Contact venue for details

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

Willows Coffee Shop

Coffee shop serving cakes, teas, coffee, and a selection of vegan food

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Google Reviews

4.8(208 reviews)
Z
Zombiecazz

Zombiecazz

2 months ago

What a wonderful day out. Petting the animals, taking in the outside, having a tasty leasurely vegan lunch, checking out the second hand books , the gift shop and best of all supporting the animals. Can't wait to go again

G
Glen Grass

Glen Grass

3 months ago

Really care about the animals....cats happy to be petted...and the donkeys ....my husband loved fussing them ...right up to the time one bit the tag on the zip of his fleece and would NOT let go !!! I did get my husband back shame I didn't get the donkey too. Lovely place to visit ...don't forget the cafe and bookshop!!

K
Kara W

Kara W

10 months ago

Really great experience! The cafe food was good, signage was clear, and we had a great time seeing all the animals and reading about each of them. My 10 month old found it to be a really interesting experience. There’s a nice short loop walk to see some of the animals in pastures too.

C
Chantelle Clark

Chantelle Clark

a year ago

After watching them on Facebook for a wee while I decided this weekend would be perfect for a little adventure with the mini-mes and they had a great time! £16 for 1adult and 2kids to get access, we mostly wondered around as wasnt sure what to visit first! My littlests favourite was the donkeys! We stopped in for lunch at the little cafe for soup and a cake, as 3fussy eaters we normally struggle to get anything that isn't just 'chips and cheese' It was well priced, the kids both enjoyed the soup available (little doesn't like soup usually but enjoyed pinching my veg soup) we'll definitely return but would try to get there earlier as when we visited the cat hotel the ones sleeping were (rightfully so) grumpy, we have a cat at home and understand their body language so we appreciated them from afar and didn't bother them from their sleep. The cats we saw while we visited the horses and donkeys were very friendly to the point one actually sat in my oldests lap and wanted cuddles 😂 spent roughly 3/4hours there and highly recommend it for a visit!

D
David Pearce

David Pearce

a year ago

An amazing space for animals and humans alike... The place is spotless with lots of shade for the animals and space alike... Keep doing the amazing work you doing Ohhhh and the coffee shop is reasonably priced too, you'll definitely need refreshment if you follow the cut grass path walk must stretch best part of 1.5 miles each way

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026

Events at Willows Animal Sanctuary

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about Willows Animal Sanctuary

Is Willows Animal Sanctuary free to visit?

Willows Animal Sanctuary is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

Is Willows Animal Sanctuary dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at Willows Animal Sanctuary.

Is there parking at Willows Animal Sanctuary?

Willows Animal Sanctuary doesn't have parking — public transport is recommended.

Is there food at Willows Animal Sanctuary?

Yes — Willows Coffee Shop is on site at Willows Animal Sanctuary. Coffee shop serving cakes, teas, coffee, and a selection of vegan food

Is Willows Animal Sanctuary pushchair-friendly?

Willows Animal Sanctuary isn't the easiest for pushchairs, prams or buggies — stairs or uneven terrain may make a baby carrier a better option.

How long should we plan to spend at Willows Animal Sanctuary?

Plan 1–3 hours for a visit to Willows Animal Sanctuary.

How do I get to Willows Animal Sanctuary by public transport?

Willows Animal Sanctuary isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.

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