Powderham Castle has closed its petting zoo and animal encounters attraction as it seeks to ‘reimagine’ the future of its secret garden.

All the resident animals of the Secret Garden, which include chickens, pigs, donkeys, ducks and rabbits, will be rehomed.

The closure follows ‘a detailed review of the space’s long-term sustainability and the welfare responsibilities, as well as the operational challenges of maintaining the offer at the standard we believe our visitors deserve,’ Powderham Castle said in a statement.

The castle, home of the 19th Earl of Devon Charles Courtenay and his family, said it is developing fresh experiences that ‘reflect Powderham’s values, principles, landscape and evolving visitor needs’.

It added that ‘the next chapter for this space will be shaped creatively with care and community in mind.’

The Courtenay Fort Play Area in the Secret Garden is also temporarily closed but the Castle said the garden will remain open where possible this summer and that there will be alternative seasonal programming for visitors to enjoy.

The animal attraction and playground in the Secret Garden were a firm favourite with young families and many have expressed their disappointment at the decision saying that the animals, and Maria, the keeper, were the main reason they made return visits to the attraction.

Powderham Castle said it is grateful to all the staff, volunteers and visitors who have supported the Secret Garden over the years. It is inviting fans to share memories of the Secret Garden via email: [email protected].