Donkey rides are a traditional feature of seaside resorts in England. Children are allowed to ride donkeys on a sandy beach for a fee in summer months while on holiday, normally led in groups at walking pace. Typically the donkeys used have their names on their harnesses so they could be identified by children and parents alike.
In Bridlington donkey rides have been available since 1895.
The tradition started in Victorian times, but is now much less popular. It is probable that the donkeys offered to ride on were originally working draught animals in the cockle industries around the coast.
Famous quotes containing the words donkey and/or rides:
“Heaven is the place where the donkey at last catches up with the carrot.”
—Anonymous.
“Our age is very cheap and intelligible. Unroof any house, and you shall find it. The well-being consists in having a sufficiency of coffee and toast, with a daily newspaper; a well glazed parlor, with marbles, mirrors and centre-table; and the excitement of a few parties and a few rides in a year.”
—Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)