Inside world-renowned gastropub once home to lions, chimpanzees and parrots

18 May 2024 , 06:37

999     0

The Oakfield was once a Victorian country house (Image: Chester Zoo)

Nestled within the grounds of Chester Zoo lies a hidden gem that's won over food lovers and wildlife fans alike.

The Oakfield, once a Victorian country house, has undergone a fascinating transformation to become one of the world's most acclaimed gastropubs. Originally built in 1884, The Oakfield's storied past includes serving as a hospital for Belgian war victims during the First World War. But it was George Mottershead, a forward-thinking veteran, who turned this old building into the heart of his groundbreaking idea – a "zoo without bars" – focusing on the well-being of animals above all else.

Yet, what truly sets The Oakfield apart is its former residents. Once inhabited by majestic lions, playful chimpanzees, and colourful parrots and pelicans, this place has seen it all. From a family home to a cosy tea room and even an aquarium, The Oakfield's transformation over the years is truly remarkable.

The pub once housed lions, chimpanzees, parrots and pelicans (Chester Zoo)

Since its doors swung open in 2018, The Oakfield has been raking in awards, from local honours like the Taste Cheshire Awards to global recognition in TripAdvisor's Travellers Choice Awards, where it sits proudly among the top 10 per cent of eateries worldwide. Now, responding to overwhelming demand, The Oakfield has extended its opening hours to include not only Fridays but also Sunday evenings.

Chloe Gill, the food and beverage operations manager, expressed her delight at the overwhelming response to their Friday evening trial. She said: "Our Friday evening trial proved to be super popular. So, in response to the phenomenal demand we’ve had, and as we head into summer months and begin to enjoy lighter evenings, we’re thrilled to extend our opening hours to include not just Fridays but Sunday evenings too.”

Brit 'saw her insides' after being cut open by propeller on luxury diving trip

The Oakfield will extend their opening hours due to demand (Chester Zoo)

Visitors can now relax in the pub's sun garden, serenaded by the symphony of birdsong and lion roars, all while supporting the zoo's conservation efforts. She added: "Our guests can enjoy our sun garden while taking in the sights and sounds of nature, brimming with bird song and the majestic roars of lions in the distance - all while knowing every sip of their drink or bite of their food supports our charity, helping to create a brighter future where wildlife thrives."

So, whether you're craving a gourmet dining experience or seeking to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature, The Oakfield invites you to join them every Friday and Sunday evening from 5 pm to 11 pm. Located at the zoo's brand-new events entrance on Caughall Road in Upton, it promises an unforgettable pub experience amidst the beauty of Chester Zoo. For reservations and further details, visit www.theoakfield.org.

Florence Freeman