Why Raystede is unique

All animals deserve to be understood and cared for with respect, compassion and kindness. Inspired by our founder Miss Mabel Raymonde-Hawkins who established Raystede’s first rescue centre in 1952, we remain committed to help, rehabilitate, rehome and give sanctuary to animals that need us.

Today we are one of the most diverse rescue centres in the UK because we care for so many different species of animals. We currently have around 400 vulnerable animals at any one time on a 43-acre site in East Sussex.

It’s not a zoo, a farm, or a fun park - it is a place where animals can feel safe.

View a timeline of our history

Our impact - the difference we made last year

Rehoming, rehabilitating and providing sanctuary

Raystede cares for and rehomes dogs, cats and small animals, while our aviaries are a permanent home to many exotic birds. We look after fowl, tortoises and larger animals, all of which are supported by your generous donations.

Because they need specialist care, many of the larger animals call Raystede home, including elderly goats, alpacas and equines. Some equines or goats would be happy in an environment outside Raystede, and we encourage them to be rehomed.

Rehoming

Rehoming, rehabilitating and providing sanctuary

Rehoming

Education is essential for a better future for animals and humans

Raystede is a place where adults and children alike can learn about animal welfare. It underpins our education programmes on site and in the community because we are passionate about instilling a life-long awareness of how to respect animals. We also go out into the community offering free pet advice.

We also offer:

Pet care guides for when you’re ready to adopt
Family learning days
Talks and events such as healthcare days for microchipping and neutering

When you visit us

You will find out how and why we do what we do while sharing the tranquil surroundings that many animals call home. Here you can book your free ticket in advance and our friendly Welcome Team volunteers will greet you at the entrance. There is ample parking, good accessibility and we are dog-friendly.

We have a dedicated charity shop where you can bag a bargain (designer labels and other hidden gems have been discovered) and a dog-friendly café with a great selection of meals, snacks, cakes and drinks and lots of vegan and vegetarian options.

Book your visit

When you visit us

Book your visit

Your support is crucial

Although Miss Raymonde-Hawkins was a hero in her own right, Raystede has always been about our supporters. We couldn’t do what we do without our volunteers and generous donations from our local community that allows us to rescue and care for animals in need.

Donate

Your donation will help give animals the lives they deserve. More Info

Fundraise for Raystede

Support the animals here at Raystede with your own fundraising activity. We are here to help you with our top tips, inspirational ideas and helpful resources. More Info

How a gift in your Will can make a huge difference

Let your love of animals live on with a gift like no other. Find out more about how you can make a difference to the animals in our care for years to come. More Info

Volunteer with us

Raystede is an exciting and rewarding place to volunteer. We have over 300 volunteers at Raystede all committed to giving animals a better life. More Info

Help keep our animals warm and safe this winter

As the cold weather sets in, our animals need your help more than ever. Winter is a challenging time for our animals who have often been mistreated, neglected or abandoned.

But, with your help they will spend Christmas in the care of our amazing animal welfare team.

Donate