I'm a regular visitor to Heronfield Animal Rescue Centre with my family and also with a volunteer group & we all think it's a really special place.
I understand how previous reviewers have said that it's not the most gleaming / modern / pristine of zoological establishments but that's actually part of it's humble charm in our opinion. It's down to earth & homely so please don't judge by any initial thoughts on the centre's appearance. I do feel that I can say that, as I volunteer there myself, along with others. We help with the jobs, which are definitely too much for one family to keep on top of. Mitch & Leoni's priority is the welfare of the animals & that's where the majority of their time is spent & rightly so, as well as raising their own family.
They accept both abandoned pets & injured or orphaned wildlife & their knowledge & enthusiasm about those animals' medical needs is incredible. They nurse them back to health & get them fit enough to be released as much as possible or care for those who can't be released, until the end of their natural lives.
There are (currently) ponies, sheep, friendly goats, pigs (with 6 new gorgeous piglets - see photo), a Llama, rabbits, guinea pigs, a family of ferrets, foxes and an array of birds including ducks, geese, pigeons & doves, some impressive European eagle owls, parrots, buzzards, chickens. a peacock & a golden pheasant.
Donations are welcome for both useful items to help with animal care and bric-a-brac to sell in the Aladdin's cave of a shop. A small donation is suggested (£4 adults, £3 seniors & £2 children) to look around the rescue centre which is open daily apart from Wednesdays. There are toilets there, but take your own snacks as they don't sell food / drinks. Please don't feed any of the animals though, as some need certain food or small-sized portions.
You can easily spend an hour or so there enjoying the animals, exploring the wildlife area, using the play equipment, having a picnic & chatting to Mitch about the animals & their stories.
I would recommend that you visit if you're interested in animals & would like to support a local worthy cause, as all donations will help the wonderfully dedicated owners continue their good work.