The Retreat Animal Rescue Animal rescue service in Ashford, Kent

Charlotte Windsor

"Me and my boyfriend booked for the sanctuary tour with Billy and we had the best day ever! Everyone at the sanctuary is so friendly and kind and you feel welcomed as soon as you arrive. Billy took us around to all of the different animals in their care, he had so many stories to tell us about each of their journeys and was really informative. He knows every animal by name which I think is so sweet and shows how much he loves each individual animal. All the animals are so well cared for and it’s such a fantastic place to visit. There are some really friendly goats that loved the attention and we got to spend some more time with Lara the cow (and give her some massages), we did this after the tour and lunch, when we were given hi-vis jackets to go back to some of the areas of the tour to spend time with some of the animals by ourselves. I would definitely recommend visiting before they shut to the public towards the end of November for winter! There’s a mini vegan supermarket which is on site called Jennings Plantry, which you can also order online from, so many different products! We loved their vegan cafe/restaurant, so much to choose from on the menu, really tasty, we can’t wait to go there again. There’s also a thrift shop and a gift shop for their sister dog rescue charity! Thank you to everyone at the retreat animal sanctuary! We can’t wait to come back and to also volunteer🩷"

Kate Gilmore

"I just love what they are doing there. Yes, it might not be the most pristine place to visit, but I couldn't care less! The free roaming chickens were fantastic, and I loved the seagull bit. The staff are all lovely, the animals are well cared for and it is just such a tremendous cause. Keep up the top work guys!"

Luce Lapadula

"The founder of this rescue is an incredibly kind and inspiring person who has dedicated his entire life to caring for animals and protecting nature. The place itself feels like a living story part book, part documentary filled with love and compassion. All the food served is completely vegan, and the staff couldn’t be more welcoming and friendly."

L Bee

"The Retreat Animal Sanctuary is an incredible place that combines animal rescue, education, a wildlife hospital and vegan food all in one. It’s home to around one thousand animals, all rescued and now living in safety and free from harm.The sanctuary has a peaceful atmosphere, and it’s clear how much the staff and volunteers care about the animals.On site, there is a vegan café serving home-cooked style meals. I enjoyed a jacket potato with cheeze and beans, served with a fresh side salad.In addition to the café, there’s a second-hand store, gift shops, and a well-stocked grocery shop, all supporting the sanctuary’s work.The Retreat closes for visitors for the winter season."

Mr T

"Lovely to visit and see all the animals being looked after. Great vegan cafe too."