Chester Zoo Wedding Photography
Welcome to the modern world of weddings. Traditionally, weddings were held in churches and banquet halls, but today, couples can exchange vows in almost any setting, including unique locations like Chester Zoo. With its lush greenery, stunning wildlife, and picturesque landscapes, Chester Zoo offers couples the chance to tie the knot surrounded by nature’s beauty and exotic animals’ enchanting presence. This flexibility allows couples to have their special day within the zoo, creating memories that will last a lifetime for themselves and their guests. How many people can say they had their wedding with 27,000 animals in attendance?
As a recommended supplier for wedding photography at Chester Zoo, and having photographed weddings at the zoo I have gained an excellent knowledge of where to capture those amazing photographs of your special day in this amazing wedding venue.
Award Winning Cheshire Wedding Photographer
I’m Phil Antrobus, an award-winning wedding Chester Zoo wedding photographer with a decade of experience, based in Cheshire, UK. My journey began in catering, but photography is my passion as it allows me to capture unforgettable wedding moments. I find immense joy in being part of couples’ special days, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Chester Zoo Wedding Photos
Chester Zoo Wedding Venue
Chester Zoo is a dream wedding venue location in the Cheshire countryside for animal lovers. With two amazing and totally different reception rooms to have your wedding from the recently opened Square or go back in time to the 1930’s Manor House.
The Square – New Ceremony Venue at Chester Zoo
New for 2023! The Square is a stunning new venue based in the original stable block where the zoo began back in the 1930s. Offering a large open plan venue as well as a set of unique smaller meeting spaces, the Grade II listed building has been sustainably renovated into a timeless space where old meets new.
You’ll find The Square in a secluded setting in the heart of the zoo. Featuring an impressive gated entrance, the building features a large private courtyard, exposed brick walls, vaulted rafters, large feature windows overlooking the garden and a host of original features which tell the story of the original building.
The venue offers ultimate flexibility for weddings and events, with a 200 capacity venue as well as a courtyard and beautiful private garden.
The Oakfield – the 1930’s Manor House Venue at Chester Zoo
The Oakfield has stood at the heart of the zoo since 1931 when our Founder George Mottershead moved in with his family and his vision of a ‘zoo without bars’.
Since then, The Oakfield has had many uses from a family home to an aquarium, before becoming a stunning Grade II listed wedding venue. Today, the building’s original structure has been retained, and its original features preserved. Our spaces in The Oakfield are set apart from the rest of The Oakfield so you are ensured privacy for your events, while still allowing you flexibility to use the whole venue if you wish. Our zoological gardens provide an inspirational backdrop for successful meetings.
The Oakfield is where it all began for the zoo, serving as our pioneering founder George Mottershead’s family home. Beautifully restored and renovated in 2018, The Oakfield retains many stunning original features like the intricate wood panelling in the Library and the sumptuous luxury of the Boardroom.
Chester Zoo Weddings – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can you get married at Chester Zoo?
Yes — Chester Zoo is a licensed wedding venue and offers several beautiful spaces for ceremonies and receptions. Couples can get married surrounded by stunning botanical gardens, exotic habitats and unique animal backdrops, making it one of the most memorable wedding venues in the North West.
2. Which ceremony and reception spaces are available at Chester Zoo?
Chester Zoo offers a selection of flexible spaces, including The Oakfield, a stunning Grade II–listed building; The Square, a modern venue overlooking the zoo; and botanical spaces like the Tropical Realm for unforgettable photos. Each area has its own charm and works brilliantly for weddings of all sizes.
3. How many guests can Chester Zoo accommodate for a wedding?
Capacity varies by space, but most weddings at Chester Zoo can host between 40 and 200 guests. The Oakfield suits intimate weddings, while The Square is ideal for larger celebrations. The venue team can help tailor the day to your numbers.
4. Are there opportunities for animal encounters during the wedding?
Yes — one of the biggest highlights of Chester Zoo weddings is the chance to book animal experiences. Couples can enjoy private encounters, talks or exclusive photo moments near certain enclosures. These add a completely unique element to your day and make for amazing wedding photography. Please arrange this with the zoo before your wedding day.
5. Can we have outdoor photos around the zoo on the wedding day?
Absolutely. With beautifully landscaped gardens, exotic plants and incredible habitats, Chester Zoo offers endless options for wedding photos. Your photography session can include areas near the islands, botanical gardens and vibrant walkways perfect for natural, storytelling images.
6. Does Chester Zoo provide catering for weddings?
Yes Chester Zoo provides in-house catering, offering seasonal menus, canapés and evening food. The catering team can tailor menus to your tastes and any dietary requirements, ensuring your guests enjoy a memorable dining experience.
7. Is The Oakfield available for exclusive use for weddings?
Yes, The Oakfield can be hired exclusively for your wedding. This means you and your guests enjoy private use of the building, gardens and dining spaces, creating an intimate celebration right in the heart of the zoo.
Chester Zoo is stunning all year round. Spring and summer bring lush greenery and colourful flowers, while autumn offers warm tones and unique foliage. Even winter weddings work beautifully thanks to cosy indoor spaces and atmospheric lighting throughout the zoo.
9. Is Chester Zoo suitable for families and children at weddings?
Definitely. Chester Zoo is naturally family-friendly, with plenty to keep children entertained. Weddings here often include time for guests to explore selected areas of the zoo, making it a fun, interactive experience for all ages.
10. Do you need a separate ticket to access the zoo on your wedding day?
Wedding guests don’t need separate entry tickets for the zoo. Access to designated areas is included as part of the wedding package, and the venue team guide guests on where they can and can’t explore during the celebration.
The History of Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo has a fascinating history that’s worth exploring. It all began in 1931 when George Mottershead, a man passionate about animals, decided to create a zoo without bars. He envisioned a place where animals could roam freely in naturalistic habitats, rather than being confined in cages. George faced numerous challenges, including financial struggles and skepticism from others, but his determination never wavered.
In 1934, George found a suitable location in Upton-by-Chester, and with the support of his family, he opened Chester Zoo to the public. It quickly gained popularity for its innovative approach to zookeeping and its commitment to conservation and education.
Over the years, Chester Zoo has grown significantly, expanding its collection of animals and becoming a leader in wildlife conservation efforts. Today, it is one of the largest and most visited zoos in the UK, attracting millions of visitors each year.
As for Chester Zoo wedding photography, the picturesque surroundings of the zoo provide a stunning backdrop for couples looking to capture their special day. From lush gardens to exotic animal exhibits, there are countless opportunities for beautiful and unique photos. Professional photographers can take advantage of the natural light and diverse scenery to create unforgettable images that capture the love and joy of the occasion.
Whether you’re an animal lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a truly memorable wedding venue, Chester Zoo offers a magical setting that’s sure to make your big day unforgettable.
The zoo has been featured on Channel 4 in the programme called the Secret Life of the Zoo which takes viewers behind the scenes at Chester Zoo showing the hard work and dedication of the staff, how it works with other zoo’s to help in the conservation of the animal population and much more. There are over 65 episodes in total and you can catch the episodes on All 4.
Chester Zoo’s Role in Animal Welfare
Help to make a difference by choosing Chester Zoo as your wedding venue, you are helping in our fight to prevent extinction. As you celebrate your happy day, you can do so with the added joy of knowing that you’ve made a real difference.
All the profits from every event at The Square will go towards our conservation work to help prevent extinction both here and around the world.
How to find Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo is easy to get to and not far from the M56 or Chester city centre.
You’ll see lots of signposts on the main roads around Chester. If you’re visiting via the motorway, follow the signs to Chester until you see the brown tourist zoo signs.
Once you get onto the A41, stay on that road until you reach a roundabout with signs for Chester Zoo. Sat navs often get confused so please ignore them once you get onto the A41. Dont turn down Flag Lane North as it is a dead end.
We’re going to the Chester Zoo how about you?
Once you have decided to have your wedding at Chester Zoo, please contact me regarding your wedding day. As a wedding photographer who is familiar with the Zoo I can provide you with many ideas on what backgrounds to use and what traditional photos can be taken in specific areas. In addition, the palace is known for its distinct style, and I can help bring things together to create beautiful images that you will love.
Your wedding is one of the most important days of your life. As a professional wedding photographer, it is my job to create images that you will look back at with a smile. Capturing your happiest memories is my job, and I cherish every minute.
Wedding photography at Chester Zoo is, unlike any other wedding venue. The unique setting of the zoo, the animals, and two different buildings allow you to have the wedding of your dreams.
Contact Me
If you’d like to get in touch and check my availability, use the contact form.