Hopefield Animal Sanctuary
Essex sanctuary rescuing 700+ animals with ethical encounters and countryside peace.
A 53-acre animal sanctuary in rural Essex caring for nearly 700 rescued animals, from horses and goats to exotic species. Open seasonally (March–December), visitors can meet rescued residents, enjoy plant-based refreshments at Max's Café, and participate in ethical animal experiences. The sanctuary operates as a working charity dedicated to animal welfare and rehabilitation, offering an affordable, family-friendly day out with meaningful encounters and educational value.
A brief summary to Hopefield Animal Sanctuary
- Sawyer's Hall Farm, Sawyers Hall Ln, Brentwood, CM15 9BZ, GB
- +441277201110
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during school holidays or event weekends when hours extend to 4 p.m., allowing more time to explore the 53 acres and meet the animals without feeling rushed.
- Book ethical animal experiences in advance to secure your preferred time slot for hands-on encounters like hand-feeding goats or cuddling cows.
- Bring a picnic or plan to dine at Max's Café, which offers plant-based options and overlooks the children's play area—ideal for families needing a break.
- Plan your visit for March through December; the sanctuary closes in winter. Check the website before travelling to confirm opening hours, especially during school holidays.
- Do not feed the animals—many are on special diets due to age or medical conditions. Violations result in immediate removal from the sanctuary.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Bus
From Brentwood or Shenfield train stations, take a bus to Brentwood High Street (approximately 10–15 minutes depending on service frequency). The sanctuary is a 10-minute walk from the High Street along Sawyers Hall Lane. Journey time from central London is approximately 45–60 minutes including the walk from the station.
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Car and Parking
Drive to Sawyers Hall Lane, Brentwood CM15 9BZ. The sanctuary offers ample onsite parking at no charge. From central London, allow 45–60 minutes depending on traffic; from Essex towns like Chelmsford or Colchester, allow 20–40 minutes. Parking is accessible and suitable for families with young children.
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Walking from Brentwood Town Centre
If arriving by train or bus at Brentwood High Street, the sanctuary is accessible via a 10-minute walk along Sawyers Hall Lane. The route is relatively flat and suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, though terrain is rural. Allow extra time if visiting with young children or mobility considerations.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-share services operate from Brentwood and Shenfield stations. Journey time is approximately 10–15 minutes from either station to the sanctuary. Estimated cost ranges from £12–£20 depending on traffic and service provider.
Hopefield Animal Sanctuary location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Hopefield Animal Sanctuary
A Haven for Rescued Lives
Hopefield Animal Sanctuary stands as a beacon of compassion in the Essex countryside, providing a permanent home to nearly 700 rescued animals spanning over 100 species. Founded in 1983, the sanctuary has grown into one of the UK's most significant animal rescue operations, caring for creatures ranging from horses, donkeys, goats, and sheep to more exotic residents including reptiles, parrots, and raccoons. Each animal here has a story—many arrived malnourished, injured, or traumatized—and the sanctuary's dedicated team ensures they receive the specialized care, medical treatment, and love needed to heal and thrive.Exploring the Countryside Grounds
Spread across 53 acres of beautiful Essex countryside, the sanctuary invites visitors to wander gently through its grounds at their own pace. The landscape is thoughtfully designed to balance animal welfare with visitor experience, featuring picnic areas, seating spaces, and a dedicated children's play area. Whether you choose to take a leisurely stroll or settle into a quiet spot to observe the animals, the setting encourages connection with nature and the rescued residents. The grounds feel peaceful and unhurried, allowing genuine moments of interaction with the animals and reflection on their journeys to safety.Max's Café and Visitor Facilities
Named after a beloved bull who arrived at just four days old, Max's Café serves plant-based refreshments including baguettes, paninis, cakes, hot and cold drinks, and alcoholic beverages. The café features both an indoor area and an adjoining marquee that opens onto the children's play area, making it an ideal spot for families to rest and refuel. Beyond dining, the sanctuary provides restrooms, accessible facilities, baby-changing areas, a gift shop, and ample onsite parking. These amenities ensure visitors of all ages and abilities can spend a comfortable 2–3 hours exploring.Ethical Animal Encounters and Experiences
Unlike traditional zoos, Hopefield deliberately chose not to pursue a zoo licence, meaning exotic animals appear on public display only six days per year during designated Exotic Animal Weekends. This decision reflects the sanctuary's commitment to animal welfare over spectacle. Instead, the sanctuary offers ethical animal experiences where visitors can engage meaningfully with residents—tickling a pig's belly, cuddling a cow, or hand-feeding goats. These encounters are designed to foster genuine connection and understanding of individual animal personalities rather than treat animals as attractions. The sanctuary also hosts birthday parties, school trips, and special events throughout the year, all structured around educational and compassionate engagement.Seasonal Operations and Planning Your Visit
The sanctuary operates seasonally from March through December, closing during winter months to allow the grounds to rest and reduce stress on the animals during colder weather. During school holidays and special event weekends, opening hours extend until 4 p.m. Regular visiting hours are Monday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday closed to the public. Admission is affordable—adults pay £9, children aged 2–15 pay £8, and under-twos enter free—with optional donations supporting the sanctuary's vital work. Groups of 12 or more should book in advance. Dogs on leads are permitted, though summer visits may be crowded with families and prams. The sanctuary maintains strict policies protecting animal welfare, including a prohibition on feeding animals, as many residents have special dietary or medical needs.Supporting a Living Charity
As a registered charity, Hopefield relies entirely on visitor admissions, donations, and sponsorships to fund daily operations costing over £2,000 per day. Visitors contribute directly to this mission simply by attending. The sanctuary also offers animal sponsorships from £30 annually, with 100% of proceeds supporting individual residents' care. Beyond admission fees, the gift shop and online store offer merchandise, season tickets, and gift vouchers. Every purchase and donation extends the sanctuary's capacity to rescue more animals and provide lifelong care to those already in residence.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Laindon War Memorial
10.5 km
A solemn tribute in Basildon honoring Laindon's wartime heroes, blending history with community remembrance.
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
16.0 km
The only complete Chain Home radar tower in the UK, a towering symbol of WWII air defence and Cold War innovation in Great Baddow.
Falklands Island Monument
17.0 km
A solemn tribute in Grays honoring merchant seafarers who sacrificed their lives in the 1982 Falklands War.
The Gypsy Stone
20.4 km
Discover the Gypsy Stone in Woodford, a serene forest monument honoring evangelist Rodney 'Gipsy' Smith and Romani heritage.
North Greenwich Pier
24.7 km
Modern Thames gateway where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture and entertainment.
Two Tree Island
25.1 km
Explore the natural beauty and tranquility of Two Tree Island, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers in the UK.
Rye House Gatehouse
25.6 km
Discover the historical essence of England at the Rye House Gatehouse, a captivating landmark and museum in Hoddesdon, showcasing its rich heritage.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
25.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, a unique blend of nature, history, and community nestled in the heart of London.
National Trust - Sutton House and Breaker's Yard
25.9 km
Discover the enchanting Sutton House and Breaker's Yard, a historical jewel in London offering a glimpse into Tudor life and vibrant cultural events.
Cutty Sark
26.3 km
Step aboard the world's fastest tea clipper, suspended in time above Greenwich's Thames, where echoes of ocean races and salty decks invite maritime dreams.
Anchor Iron Wharf
26.3 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
St Anne's Church, Limehouse
26.4 km
Discover St Anne's Church, Limehouse—an 18th-century Baroque maritime landmark with rich naval heritage and mysterious architectural features.
Hackney Museum
26.5 km
Explore Hackney Museum, a vibrant cultural destination showcasing Hackney's rich history and diverse community through engaging exhibits and events.
Trafalgar Tavern
26.6 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
26.8 km
Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
Unmissable attractions to see
Weald Country Park
2.6 km
Explore 520 acres of historic Essex parkland with deer, lakes, play trails, and scenic walking and cycling routes for all ages.
Thorndon Country Park
4.0 km
Explore 500+ acres of ancient woodlands, scenic parkland, and the original Gruffalo Trail in Essex’s historic Thorndon Country Park.
Warley Place Nature Reserve
4.0 km
Explore the historic gardens and vibrant wildlife of Warley Place Nature Reserve, a tranquil 25-acre sanctuary near Brentwood, Essex.
Old MacDonald's Farm & Fun Park
4.5 km
A vibrant family farm and fun park in Brentwood, blending hands-on animal encounters with thrilling rides and indoor play for all ages.
Mountnessing Windmill
4.8 km
Historic 1807 post mill in Essex, fully restored and working, offering heritage milling and scenic village charm.
Kelvedon Hatch Secret Nuclear Bunker
5.6 km
Explore the vast underground Cold War bunker hidden beneath a modest Essex bungalow, revealing Britain's secret nuclear defense history.
Thorndon Country Park South
6.3 km
Rolling parkland with sweeping views, perfect for picnics, dog walking, and fishing at Old Hall Pond in Brentwood, Essex.
UnHenged
6.9 km
Explore Romford’s unique concrete Stonehenge replica, blending prehistoric inspiration with modern art in a tranquil meadow setting.
Ingatestone Hall
7.1 km
Explore the intimate grandeur and Tudor heritage of Ingatestone Hall, set within serene gardens in the heart of Essex countryside.
Bedfords Park
7.8 km
Explore 215 acres of historic parkland with red deer, wildflower meadows, and sweeping views over East London and Kent.
Cater Museum
8.1 km
Discover Billericay’s heritage at the quaint Cater Museum, where local history comes alive in a charming High Street setting.
Barnards Miniature Railway
8.2 km
A charming 7¼ inch gauge miniature railway on a working farm near Brentwood, perfect for families and rail enthusiasts on select days from spring to winter.
Norsey Wood Local Nature Reserve
9.8 km
Explore the tranquil trails and vibrant wildlife of Norsey Wood, a scenic local nature reserve in Billericay perfect for family walks and seasonal beauty.
Langdon Nature Discovery Park
9.9 km
Explore Essex’s largest inland nature reserve with diverse wildlife, scenic trails, and a welcoming Nature Discovery Centre.
Havering Museum Ltd
10.2 km
Discover the rich local history of Havering in the charming former Romford Brewery, where community heritage comes alive through engaging exhibits and stories.
Essential places to dine
Alec's Restaurant
4.0 km
Alec's Restaurant in Brentwood offers exquisite seafood and fine dining in a beautifully restored historic setting with impeccable service.
Dukes Head Billericay
8.1 km
A charming gastropub in Billericay blending traditional British fare with a warm, inviting atmosphere and scenic outdoor spaces.
Bartellas Restaurant
10.3 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine in a warm, inviting setting nestled in the Essex countryside near Ingatestone.
The Magic Mushroom
10.5 km
A stylish fine dining experience blending British and Mediterranean flavors in a charming converted barn on Billericay’s outskirts.
Hoop at Stock
10.7 km
Historic 15th-century gastropub in Stock village serving award-winning modern British cuisine in a cozy, traditional setting.
The Cart Shed Restaurant
15.3 km
A rustic yet refined British dining experience in the tranquil village of Thornwood near Epping, blending seasonal local produce with countryside charm.
The New London
15.8 km
Upscale Chelmsford restaurant offering scratch-made dishes, attentive service, and a cozy contemporary lounge atmosphere.
Samphire Restaurant @ The County Hotel
16.3 km
Award-winning British cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a stylish, family-friendly Chelmsford setting.
Acanteen
16.4 km
Chelmsford’s all-day bar, restaurant and live music venue – brunch, pizza, cocktails and events in a buzzing city-centre setting.
Fête at Grays Brewery Yard
16.5 km
Eclectic global flavours and vibrant cocktails in a quirky, welcoming eatery at Chelmsford’s lively Brewery Yard.
Cosy Club
16.6 km
Experience timeless art deco charm and inclusive British dining at Cosy Club Chelmsford, open all day for every occasion.
Bill's Chelmsford Restaurant
16.7 km
A vibrant British restaurant in Chelmsford’s town centre, serving all-day meals, seasonal specials, and welcoming guests with a lively atmosphere.
Russells Restaurant
16.8 km
Historic vaulted barn setting meets refined French and English fine dining with seasonal dishes and exceptional service in Great Baddow.
The Chequers Matching Green
17.0 km
A charming gastro-pub overlooking Matching Green’s cricket pitch, blending traditional English village charm with modern dining comfort.
Pig & Whistle Restaurant
18.3 km
Charming 16th-century countryside restaurant in Chelmsford offering award-winning British cuisine and a cosy, intimate dining experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
French Quarter
1.3 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan homewares in Brentwood’s welcoming French Quarter boutique.
Minnie's Boutique
1.3 km
Discover unique styles and personalized service at Minnie's Boutique, a charming ladies' clothing shop in Brentwood, perfect for every fashion enthusiast.
The Baytree Shopping Centre
1.3 km
A practical and accessible shopping centre at the heart of Brentwood, offering everyday essentials and local services.
B-Invogue - Ladies Clothes Essex
15.0 km
A friendly Epping boutique offering stylish, affordable ladies’ fashion in a welcoming, personal setting.
Blush Boutique Essex
15.1 km
Chic and contemporary ladies’ fashion boutique on Epping High Street, blending quality, style, and comfort in every piece.
Riverside Retail Park
17.2 km
A convenient and lively retail hub in Chelmsford offering diverse stores, eateries, and accessible parking on Victoria Road.
Unique Store
21.4 km
Explore London's Unique Store: Your go-to convenience shop for local snacks, souvenirs, and essentials, right in the heart of the city.
The Factory Shops
21.6 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a diverse range of discounted goods at The Factory Shops, Rayleigh’s favorite value retail destination.
Gifts for All Home Decor
22.9 km
Discover unique, stylish home decor and gifts at Gifts for All Home Decor, Hadleigh’s charming boutique with quality and affordability.
Triangle Store
25.4 km
Independent East London boutique championing sustainable fashion, ethical homeware, and conscious living.
La Luna Boutique
25.9 km
Discover unique bohemian fashion with a vintage rock ’n’ roll edge at La Luna Boutique in Leigh-on-Sea.
The Trading Centre
26.0 km
Explore a treasure trove of antiques at The Trading Centre in Hoddesdon, where every item has a story waiting to be discovered.
Store Thirty3
26.3 km
A charming gift shop on Elm Road offering unique local treasures in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea’s vibrant coastal town.
Latham Street
26.3 km
Discover sustainable vintage fashion reimagined with style and care at Latham Street in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea.
Palace Exchange Shopping Centre
26.5 km
Discover a vibrant shopping experience at Palace Exchange Shopping Centre, Enfield, with diverse shops, cafes, and exciting events.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Merchant Brentwood
1.2 km
A vibrant pub on Brentwood High Street serving artisan comfort food, lively sports, and spirited social gatherings from day to night.
George And Dragon Mount Nessin
4.3 km
A charming British gastropub in Mountnessing blending rustic tradition with modern dining and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Leather Bottle Blackmore
7.0 km
A charming gastropub in Blackmore blending quirky decor, seasonal British cuisine, and a welcoming village atmosphere all year round.
Cristi's Bar
8.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and expertly crafted cocktails in Billericay’s vibrant and stylish Cristi's Bar.
Harry's Bar
8.1 km
A stylish and welcoming bar and restaurant in Billericay’s heart, perfect for relaxed dining and vibrant socializing.
Top Oak Restaurant & Pub Essex Venue Hire Stapleford Abbotts
8.2 km
A charming Essex country pub blending rustic ambiance with contemporary comfort and classic British cuisine.
Fête Lounge
9.0 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktails and afternoon teas in a lively, welcoming lounge at Upminster’s Fête Lounge.
Vertigo
9.5 km
A lively multi-level bar and restaurant in Hornchurch, perfect for casual drinks, celebrations, and enjoying great music in a stylish setting.
The Bear Inn - Stock
10.4 km
A warm, traditional gastropub in Stock offering hearty British fare, a large beer garden, and a welcoming village atmosphere.
The Fox and Goose
11.2 km
A modern gastropub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with seasonal British cuisine and inviting garden dining.
The Prim and Proper Cocktail Bar
11.9 km
Basildon’s premier mobile cocktail bar delivering expert mixology and stylish service to your private events and celebrations.
The Bar People
14.6 km
Expert cocktail bar and event specialists in Theydon Bois, blending bespoke drinks with professional event management for unforgettable celebrations.
Fox & Hounds
14.7 km
A welcoming Chelmsford pub offering hearty British classics, lively sports viewing, and a warm, friendly atmosphere for all visitors.
The Orange Tree
15.8 km
A lively gastro pub in Chelmsford offering excellent ales, hearty meals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Woolpack
16.3 km
A vibrant Victorian pub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with lively events, great ales, and hearty American-British fare.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Loft Basildon
12.8 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
Epping Roof Garden & Nightclub
15.2 km
A stylish rooftop nightclub in Epping blending lively nightlife with blooming garden charm and sophisticated cocktails.
Club Tantalize
16.3 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
16.4 km
A large, lively nightclub in Chelmsford known for affordable drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and a mix of praise and controversy around its staff and music.
Popworld - Chelmsford
16.6 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
Faces NightClub
17.1 km
A stylish, vibrant nightclub in Gants Hill with immersive sound, dynamic visuals, and a versatile space for unforgettable nights and events.
Air & Breathe Nightclub
21.4 km
Vibrant dual-zone nightclub in Dartford blending youthful energy with plush exclusivity for over 25s.
CQ LOUNGE
23.3 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
LA Lounge
24.1 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
American Express Invites Lounge
25.0 km
A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
25.1 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
Oliver's Jazz Bar
27.2 km
Experience the soulful rhythms and vibrant atmosphere at Oliver's Jazz Bar, where great music meets delightful drinks in the heart of London.
The Lounge Jazz Club
27.5 km
Experience intimate jazz and soul performances in a cozy, elegant venue near Southend Airport with fine drinks and a lively atmosphere.
The Bunker
28.4 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
E1
28.5 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Scenic
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
