UK / South West / Somerset
The Golden Retriever Experience
Unit 4C, Hawksworth Road, Minehead, TA24 5BZ
The Golden Retriever Experience Ltd (The GRE) is a family-run attraction in West Somerset that gives the unique opportunity for guests to have a personal encounter with a pack of trained Golden Retrievers!
Play Fetch with a Pack of Dogs (Summer Experience Only)
For those who don’t/can’t own a dog, The GRE gives you the opportunity to have a couple of hours of dog-filled fun; from doggy cuddles to playing fetch.
Experience the Joys of Owning a Dog
If you’ve been considering dog ownership, why not find out what it’s really like with us before making that big commitment.
Overcome Your Fear of Dogs
GRs are famous for being one of the most gentle and intelligent breeds! That’s why we entrust them to resolve your fear of dogs within our specially controlled environment.
Pet Bereavement
Have you lost a pet or loved one recently? Or know someone who has? Many people who are bereaving find it very therapeutic coming to The GRE because they are reminded of the joys of having had their pet and receive the healing love and attention they’ve been missing.
PTSD Treatment & Stress Relief
If you need some time out of your busy lifestyle or are suffering from Combat Stress, The GRE is perfect for you! We’re based in the quiet countryside of Exmoor National Park, surrounded by rolling hills with a 10 minute walk to the beach.
Special Occasions
The GRE is a great way to spend your Valentine’s day, birthday, anniversary or any other special occasion! Makes a perfect Wedding Gift and we do Gift Certificates. You can book out our grounds (dogs included of course) for up to 6 hours of dog-filled fun.
Learning, Social and Behavioural Difficulties
We specialise in the therapeutic needs of children and adults with all forms of learning/social/behavioural disabilities including Autism and other associated conditions. We support SEND (Special Education Needs & Disabilities).
Acquired Brain Injury Care
The GRE has shown to be a beneficial and therapeutic experience for clients suffering with ABI and we are pleased to tailor your sessions to suit your patient’s specific needs.
Additional Expertise and Accessibility
We have experience working with the blind, elderly patients and children and adults with Down syndrome. The GRE is fully wheelchair accessible and we have ample parking for minibuses and coaches.
Wear something you don't mind getting dirty and hairy. The perfect outfit is jeans or tracksuit bottoms with trainers and a t-shirt/hoodie/sweater. We don't recommend wearing white or anything expensive. A spare change of clothes is a great idea if you want to go for something to eat after your experience. If you don't get dirty here you haven't had enough fun!
Visit WebsiteOpening Times
Wednesday - Sunday
10.00 - 18.00
We’d love to see all of you at The GRE but we don’t accept walk-ins because we have a limited capacity, all bookings must be made in advance via the ‘book now’ button on our website.
WINTER EXPERIENCE 20th October 2023 to 14th April 2024
SUMMER EXPERIENCE 17th April 2024 to 29th September 2024
Prices
Experiences
Adult 2-Hour Session (18+ years old)
£70.00
Student/Youth 2-Hour Session (13 - 17 and 18+ with University Student Card. No Student Discount Cards if you aren't a student please!)
£60.00
Senior 2-Hour Session (66+ Years Old)
£60.00
Child 2-Hour Session (2 - 12 Years Old)
£35.00
Military Personnel & Partners 2-Hour Session (Military Personnel & Partners 2-Hour Session)
£60.00
Infant 2-Hour Session (Under 2 Years Old)
FREE
Doggy Daycare
2-hour Doggy Daycare
£25.00
Due to Licensing and Insurance restrictions, we can no longer allow outside dogs to participate in the experience, but you can leave your dog at our new Doggy Daycare facility during your session which is also located on the GRE property.
Facilities
Car Parking
Disabled Access
Toilets
Latest News
Top 5 places in the UK to birdwatch
The UK is home to some fantastically colourful, elusive and rare species. To celebrate their numerous species, we have put together a list of top 5 places in the UK to birdwatch.