Redwings Horse Sanctuary
Published date: May 2020
Redwings is the largest horse sanctuary in the UK, with 5 centres, 2 of which are located in Norfolk – Caldecott and Aylsham. They care for more rescued horses and donkeys every day than anyone else and are able to do so thanks to kind donations. Redwings began with a small but committed group of people who were desperate to make a difference and their story started with the rescue of a single pony called Sheba. Her rescue and recovery inspired the formation of a sanctuary in 1984, dedicated to saving horses from a life of fear and neglect.
Today Redwings is a registered charity that cares for more than 1,500 horses, ponies, donkeys and mules every day at their farms across the country. They also have 500 horses living in Guardian homes through their rehoming programme. Their headquarters are still based in Norfolk, but they now operate nationally with an incredible team who work tirelessly to save horses and ponies, that have in most cases sadly been rescued from abuse or neglect.
These centres are all FREE to enter, but they do welcome donations to help them continue their work. There are a number of ways that Redwings generate revenue, including fundraising events, appeals, through animal adoption, and their online shop. They also accept donations via their website. Redwings are always keen to hear from new volunteers, to find out more, please visit either of the websites listed at the bottom of this article.
Redwings Caldecott
Redwings Caldecott is their largest visitor centre and is home to a vast array of horses, ponies, donkeys and mules. Located on the A143 between Great Yarmouth and Beccles, it is a popular Norfolk attraction, suitable for visitors of all ages, and is free to enter.
Oliver"s Café, named in memory of beloved Adoption Star Oliver Twist, generates much needed funds for the sanctuary. This and the gift shop are in the beautiful surroundings of Caldecott Hall and are both worth visiting when at the sanctuary. Knowing you are helping the animals by having another slice of cake takes lessens the guilt!
The Memory Garden at Redwings Caldecott offers a reflective space for their supporters to remember lost loved ones.
Facilities at Redwings Caldecott include disabled parking, disabled toilets, free parking, gift shop, picnic area and café. Dogs on leads are welcome.
Redwings Aylsham
Located 12 miles from the centre of Norwich, Redwings Aylsham is situated off the A140 junction at Henry Page Road, Aylsham, in the idyllic Norfolk countryside. Home to many residents who have previously suffered abuse and neglect, this is a happy place to visit with a very warm welcome guaranteed. Free to enter, Redwings Aylsham plays host to a busy schedule of activities throughout the year and is a popular place for schools and groups to visit.
The Nosebag Café at Redwings Aylsham raises much needed revenue, with all profits going towards funding the work of the sanctuary. Every time visitors buy something to eat or drink, they are helping to keep the horses and donkeys fed too.
Facilities at Redwings Aylsham include disabled parking, disabled toilets, free parking, gift shop, children"s play area, picnic area and café. Dogs on leads are welcome.
Most paddocks are accessible, although in adverse weather, some may be difficult to navigate. The wildlife walk is mainly a grass track and so can be difficult at times. Redwings Aylsham has a fully accessible, purpose built stable facility where ponies can be brought in and groomed.
Other Redwing centres are in Essex, Scotland and Warwickshire.
To find out more about either of the Redwings Horse Sanctuaries in Norfolk, including opening times and days, how to volunteer and how to donate, please go to the following websites:
Redwings Caldecott:
https://www.redwings.org.uk/get-involved/visit/caldecott-visitor-centre
Redwings Caldecott - Caldecott Hall, Beccles Road, Fritton, Norfolk, NR31 9EY
Redwings Aylsham:
https://www.redwings.org.uk/get-involved/visit/aylsham-visitor-centre
Redwings Aylsham - Spa Lane, Aylsham, Norfolk, NR11 6UE