Family Learning Days

Raystede Animals' Superpowers – Have a spooktastic time this October half term

Visit Raystede during October half term to discover the hidden superpowers of some of the many different animals we care for:

Which animals are chewing champions?
Who are the super-sniffers?
Who are the purr-fect pouncers?

On Wednesday 30 and Thursday 31 October we will be holding free Family Learning Days with trails and activities to help you discover more about the animals at Raystede and to explore our beautiful 43-acre site.

At 11am and 2.30pm each day there will be special animal talks to introduce you to some of the residents and share their stories.

Then visit our yurt garden to discover how to make your favourite felines purr with pleasure. Find out which foods are good and bad for cats, learn how to keep them healthy from head to tail and see if you can find your purr-fect match. Unleash your creative talents with Halloween-themed crafts and take home some spookily-tasty recipe cards for your furry friends.

Come along between 10am and 4pm. Entry is free but these days are very popular so it’s essential to book a ticket to avoid disappointment. Raystede is easy to find on the B2192 between Ringmer and Halland with parking, pet goods and charity shops, plus there’s 10% discount in the café.

Book here

Frequently Asked Questions

You will be welcomed by our friendly education team who will set you off on a trail around the site to explore Raystede and learn about our animals and how we care for them. You can also enjoy craft activities such as making cat toys, dog treat bags and rehoming posters, as well as watching films featuring our furry friends. At 11am and 2.30pm join our animal talks to hear more about the lives of our residents.

Entry is FREE, but we encourage donations to support our work in caring for animals.

Family learning days happen every Wednesday and Thursday, 10am – 4pm, during school holidays (excluding Christmas).

Family learning days are FREE, but online booking is essential. Tickets become available 4 weeks in advance, events fill up quickly so don’t miss out!

Book here.

We care for a wide range of animals at Raystede, all of whom are encouraged to behave naturally. Depending on the season and weather they may choose to be outside or they might retreat inside. No day is the same and we cannot guarantee who you will get to see!

Fun for all the family! You will need to work together to solve clues, answer questions and complete the challenges. Younger ones might enjoy a crafty challenge, whilst the older ones will learn more about our work at animal talks.

Our Café offers a special Family Learning Day discount and our shops provide goodies for you and your animals. We also have a lovely play area where children can let off energy.

Special offer in our café for Family Learning Days!

Enjoy 10% off the bill including drinks, when you spend £10 or more.

Our generously portioned food is freshly cooked to order including breakfast baps, hot and cold mains, an array of tasty snacks and an indulgent selection of cakes. Why not compliment your meal with a hot or cold drink? We have a broad range of Lavazza Coffee, Teapigs Tea, soft drinks, smoothies and more.

Little ones will not be disappointed with our wonderful children's menu - come along for a family meal which won't break the bank!

Eat in or takeaway.

Visitor testimonials

“We loved it! It’s so nice to learn the animal’s stories, and know more about them. Both my children were really engaged."

“For a free day out (we did donate) it was amazing! We’re so lucky to have this place to visit on our doorstep. The kids loved the activity and the craft bits."

“My grandchildren loved making the dog treat bag and the pipecleaner cat toy. The trail was good fun and all educational staff were enthusiastic and keen to engage with the children. Thank you."

“My grandson enjoyed working out the clues and seeing the animals as we went round. Lovely greeting from staff, fun activities for the childr"

Visitor testimonials

“We loved it! It’s so nice to learn the animal’s stories, and know more about them. Both my children were really engaged."

“For a free day out (we did donate) it was amazing! We’re so lucky to have this place to visit on our doorstep. The kids loved the activity and the craft bits."

“My grandchildren loved making the dog treat bag and the pipecleaner cat toy. The trail was good fun and all educational staff were enthusiastic and keen to engage with the children. Thank you."

“My grandson enjoyed working out the clues and seeing the animals as we went round. Lovely greeting from staff, fun activities for the childr"

Raystede Animals' Superpowers – Have a spooktastic time this October half term

Frequently Asked Questions

What is there to do?

How much does it cost?

When do they take place?

How do I book?

What animals will we see?

What ages will it appeal to?

What else is there on-site?

Special offer in our café for Family Learning Days!

Visitor testimonials

Visitor testimonials

Other pages you may find useful

Help keep our animals warm and safe this winter