You Can Now Get Married In Chester Zoo’s Former Lion Sanctuary Near The Thousands Of Animals
Bride and grooms to be can tie the knot in what might well be the North West's most unique wedding venue.
Laura Rogan - Editor
As Chester Zoo continues to expand with some of the UK’s most unique experiences – Savannah lodges included – the popular UK zoo has announced its latest venture: a stunning wedding venue situated amongst tens of thousands of animals.
Constructing a bright and airy barn-style venue in a structure that formerly housed the zoo’s lions, bears and chimpanzees, couples can celebrate their big day with a capacity of 380 guests, in a venue packed with tons of beautifully-designed spaces to entertain your guests in.
Think exposed brick walls, beautiful ceiling vaults, tons of original features from the former animal sanctuary, an outdoor courtyard and even views of the zoo’s botanical gardens, all in the heart of the famous zoo.
Expanding on and retaining much of the original building, in true Chester Zoo-style, the build will be sustainably-focused, using sustainably sourced, wildlife-friendly materials that stick with their conservation ethos. In addition to the sustainability promise, Chester Zoo plans to donate all profits from their new wedding venue to their conservation efforts, helping them continue their fantastic work helping to save endangered animals from extinction.
Jamie Christon, CEO says: “The Square will be a special, one-of-a-kind space that preserves the zoo’s rich history and character, while also adding a modern twist to its interior that showcases our plans for a more sustainable future.
“While the zoo has, for some time, offered an intimate wedding and events space at The Oakfield gastropub, which can hold around 50 guests, we’re frequently asked if we can accommodate larger-scale events. That’s why we’re really excited to begin welcoming guests to this incredible new venue from early next year.
“But what’s particularly special is that income generated by each and every occasion that takes place at The Square will contribute to our charitable mission and help us to secure a brighter future for wildlife on our planet. When The Square opens in spring 2023 there will be nothing else quite like it in the UK. Who wouldn’t want to get married surrounded by 27,000 animals?”
The Square will open in spring 2023, with room enough for 200 for the ceremony and 380 elsewhere in the venue. Wedding guests will get to enjoy free access to the zoo, and there’ll even be options to add unique animal experiences to the big day, too. Find out more here.