Frolicking with Goats at Buttercups Sanctuary

I’m delighted to tell you about one of my favourite experiences ever, the day I spent with Billy and the kids at Buttercups Sanctuary for Goats in Kent.

Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Boughton Monchelsea, near Maidstone, the sanctuary spans over 40 acres of ancient parkland.

This idyllic setting provides a peaceful retreat for over 140 resident goats, with an additional 120 cared for in foster homes.

The first thing you realise when you enter the enclosure is that goats are not shy! They come barrelling right up to you which can be slightly daunting at first. After the initial surprise, you learn that these confident, friendly creatures just want a good ear scritch and maybe some special goat-friendly treats.

The sanctuary's name, "Buttercups," is inspired by the golden flowers that carpet the fields each May.

We visited the sanctuary as part of the “Buttercups and Daisies” walk for the Heart of Kent Walking Festival. This was my second year joining the festival, following last year's Augustine Camino walk. I love that this festival combines three of my favourite things: Kent, walking and nature.

How majestic are these creatures?

Buttercups Sanctuary began in 1989 when Bob and Valerie Hitch agreed to care for two unwanted goats from the RSPCA. This compassionate act soon blossomed into a full-fledged sanctuary as more goats in need found their way to the couple. By 2003, the sanctuary had grown significantly and was granted charitable status, becoming the UK's only registered charity dedicated solely to goat welfare .

Buttercups steps in and rescues goats for a number of reasons, including abandonment, neglect, and situations where they need a more spacious environment or the company of other goats.

There are so many ways to get involved in the sanctuary. You can adopt a goat for £25 year and contribute to the care of a chosen goat. Alternatively, for £25 a month, you can become a guardian and have the opportunity to visit and bond with your chosen goat throughout the year.

Buttercups also accepts applications from carefully vetted foster homes in the nearby area.

The sanctuary welcomes visitors on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays, with opening hours varying by season. From May to October, it's open from 11am to 4pm, and from November to April, from 11am to 3pm. Visitors can enjoy feeding the goats (feed available for £1 per bag), relaxing in the tea room, and exploring the serene surroundings.

Our walk leader for the day was Michael Harden of Walk Wild, a passionate advocate for inclusive outdoor experiences. As co-director of Wild With Wheels, he leads accessible nature walks across Kent, ensuring that individuals with disabilities and impairments can enjoy the beauty of the countryside. My mum would have loved that!

Did you know that female goats, also known as does or nannies, can have horns? Their horns are often smaller or thinner than those of their male counterparts.

Conversely, some goats (or breeds of goats) are born without horns, a condition known as being “polled”.

Depending on their collars, you could tell which goats were available for adoption and which were a bit spiky and therefore to be avoided. Imagine my surprise when a to-be-avoided goat demanded a neck scratch!

Speaking to staff at the sanctuary, we learned that they really suffered during lockdown. Not only did they not receive visitors, but people weren’t able to buy manure from them which is a vital service in cleaning up the site. While I often avoid activities that bring you in contact with animals (due to concerns for their welfare) I really appreciated that at Buttercups, it’s the goats who seek you out. Visitors play a vital role in keeping the sanctuary going, and there’s a lovely sense of connection between the sanctuary and the local community. It’s a brilliant day out for little ones too!

Buttercups Sanctuary for Goats
Wierton Park, Wierton Road,
Boughton Monchelsea,
Kent, ME17 4JW