I prepared this page myself after visiting the Centre in July 1996. It's dead basic, but I just haven't the time to spruce it up just now. The text is taken from their own leaflet. While there we saw, amongst others, dozens of recently rescued battery hens, some almost featherless, some de-beaked, some with horrible sores over their bodies, some obviously painfully weak, and yet there they were, pecking, scratching, dust-bathing and generally doing what chickens do. They looked like they were on their way to health and it was truly heart-warming! We saw all of the animals mentioned below, and even some which weren't, including some cattle.

Mistley Place Park Environmental and Animal and Rescue Centre is home to over 2000 rescued animals and birds ranging in size from mice to fancy rats through and including most indigenous species of animals, up to Shire horses, most of whom roam freely around the site (where practical and safe) for you to fuss over and enjoy.

The Rescue Centre has been established over five years at Mistley Place Park and has rescued thousands of animals and birds from slaughter, ill-treatment, neglect or from homes where they are not wanted any more for whatever reason. When they arrive here they are inspected by our caring and compassionate staff and where neccessary receive veterinary treatment. There is also a hospital area (not open to the public) where weaker animals are cared for until they can be set free in the park.

You will almost certainly be greeted at the entrance by numerous animals wishing to say hello. Chickens, ducks, turkeys and peacocks will inevitably be the first, although Ping and Pong the white Vietnamese pot bellied pigs will not be far behind. So far over 600 hens and cockerels have been rescued here over the last five years from battery farms and from slaughter elsewhere or from unwanted homes. They along with all the other animals and birds will spend the rest of their natural lives in peace and harmony with freedom.

There is a guinea pig hut where a large number are there to be seen from babies to seniors. Rabbit hutches containing almost every breed are scattered around the site and you will see rabbit(s) running around (as each has its turn loose!).

As you walk around, as well as those mentioned above, Vietnamese pot bellied pigs abound, friendly goats and geese stroll about, while circling overhead are over 200 white and fantailed doves and pigeons. In the paddock areas there are all types of goats and sheep, together with over 30 horses, ponies and a donkey, all of which have been saved from a known fate.

After enjoying the animals, take a leisurely stroll across the bridge and around the lovely fresh water lake, home to numerous varietis of fish (carp, tench, perch, roach etc.) an then along the woodland paths. You must enter the maze and see how long it takes you to find your way out again!

In the woods you will also see a splendid Giant Redwood Tree, touch it and see how soft the bark is. There are also delightful views over the River Stour.

After your walk you may care to visit the Tea Rooms and Gift Shop where inexpensive home-made meals, teas, coffees, cold drinks, ice-cream and home-made cakes are a speciality.

Please enjoy your visit to the Centre and remember that all profits go towards helping desperate animals from an uncertain fate.

1996 Information: