Families, horse lovers and animal welfare supporters are being invited to spend an afternoon meeting some of Essex’s most inspiring rescue animals when Remus Horse Sanctuary opens its gates for its Summer Open Day on Sunday 2 August.
The event offers visitors far more than simply a chance to see horses. Guests will be able to meet rescued horses, ponies, donkeys and a variety of other animals while learning about the daily work involved in caring for more than 100 residents, many of whom have been rescued from neglect, abuse or abandonment.
Why events like this matter
Running an equine rescue centre is a year-round commitment, and recent weather extremes have highlighted just how difficult that can be.
Following months of heavy rainfall that left paddocks waterlogged, the recent spell of hot, dry weather has created an entirely different set of welfare challenges. Hard, baked ground can increase the risk of injury, while maintaining suitable grazing, managing fields and ensuring every animal remains comfortable all require additional time, resources and expense.
For charities such as Remus Horse Sanctuary, these changing conditions add further pressure to an organisation that already provides lifelong care without receiving government funding.
Founder Sue Burton explained:
“Every season brings its own challenges. Whether we’re coping with waterlogged paddocks during the winter or trying to manage animals safely through long periods of dry weather, the work never stops. Our Open Days are a wonderful opportunity for people to see what goes on behind the scenes and understand how their support helps us continue caring for animals that have nowhere else to go.”
What visitors can expect
The Summer Open Day will run from 1pm until 5pm, giving visitors the chance to:
- Meet many of the sanctuary’s rescued horses, ponies and donkeys.
- Discover the stories behind some of the rescued animals.
- Speak with the sanctuary’s staff and volunteers about the work they do.
- Browse trade and charity stalls.
- Enjoy refreshments in the Essex countryside.
- Take part in children’s entertainment and family-friendly activities.
The relaxed atmosphere makes the event suitable for families, equestrians and anyone interested in animal welfare.
Supporting rescued horses for life
Remus Horse Sanctuary provides lifetime care for the animals it rescues. That long-term commitment means ongoing costs for veterinary treatment, specialist feeding, field maintenance, shelter and everyday care.
As an independent charity, every visitor, donation, purchase and membership contributes directly towards helping the sanctuary continue its rescue and rehabilitation work.
Open Days also provide an opportunity for supporters to better understand the realities of caring for vulnerable equines throughout the changing seasons, particularly as increasingly unpredictable weather continues to affect horse welfare and land management across the UK.
Event details
Remus Horse Sanctuary Summer Open Day
Date: Sunday 2 August 2026
Time: 1:00pm – 5:00pm
Location: Remus Horse Sanctuary, Ingatestone, Essex
Tickets can be booked in advance via the Remus Horse Sanctuary website or by calling 01277 356191.
