We looked forward to visiting The Retreat Animal Rescue in Kent after it was closed to visitors for so long. The rescued animals are kept in warmer enclosures over the colder months. And it also allows for essential work to be carried out on the farm by a huge team of staff and volunteers.
On arrival, Blue Badge holders can go through the gate to get closer access to the farm buildings. There is a memorial garden to the left of this main entrance where all previous residents are remembered. Usually there is a flurry of poultry, ducks, chickens and roosters meandering along the driveway. But all was quiet due to the bird lockdown with avian flu.
The pigs were happy, mostly sleeping and some snoring whilst wallowing in mud and straw. And there had been some concreting over the rugged yard. So made for a much smoother ride in areas on my TGA Zest Plus. We ventured to the cafe which is always a favourite for us. The ethos of the Retreat is to care for animals and not eat them, so all the food is vegan. And there are lots of informative signs around the Retreat with facts and figures about the farming industry. Most of the residents have been donated by farmers and businesses when they are no longer profitable, as well as some which have been kept in terrible conditions and rescued from harm.
We sat at a picnic table outside and the lovely owner and founder Billy came over and offered a parasol for us in case it rained. I parked on the edge of the table and spun round the seat at a 90° angle so that I was comfortably seated.
The family explored the Thrift Shop and bought some items. As the entrance is free, we always like to help donate something towards the upkeep of the resident animals. So I always leave with a full basket on my scooter.
There are resident Peacocks, who were exempt from being kept indoors.. They love to display their stunning feathers and make their distinct call to advise on their whereabouts to the rest of the group. After some lunch we ventured on to towards the fields to see the goats, sheep, cows, horses, donkeys, more pigs and poultry. The roosters were surprising quiet in their enclosure.
The paths in places were quite bumpy and uneven.. as you would expect on a working farm setting. But no problem for my Zest Plus. I met a wheelchair user who was struggling. And she said next time would bring her mobility scooter. Before you leave, there is a boot and wheels wash where you can clean the wheels of the scooter if it’s been a muddy visit. Fortunately, our visit was nice and dry!
Image Ⓒ Alex Hare Photography
