Chester Zoo, one of the UK’s most beloved and diverse zoos, is undergoing a significant expansion that promises to elevate the visitor experience to new heights. From the construction of a luxurious wedding and events venue to the development of lakeside lodges and an immersive African Savannah, this expansion project is set to redefine the way visitors engage with the zoo.
Wedding and Events Venue
At the heart of the expansion lies a new luxury wedding and events venue, set to open in Spring 2023. This impressive facility will boast a capacity of 380 guests, featuring a gated entrance, a private courtyard, exposed brick walls, vaulted rafters, and large windows overlooking the zoo’s botanical gardens. The venue is an extension of an existing Grade II listed stable block, preserving the historical charm of the site.
Lakeside Lodges
The zoo’s expansion plans also include the development of 62 lakeside lodges and a new restaurant, allowing visitors to enjoy an overnight stay and wake up to a close view of the zoo’s giraffe enclosure. This Grasslands zone development was initially approved for 28 lodges and 14 tents in September 2019 but was put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The zoo now aims to tap into the growing demand for immersive overnight experiences, creating a Savannah habitat with an attractive lake, an African street, and a welcoming building.
African Savannah Development
Alongside the lakeside lodges, the zoo is constructing an African Savannah-style village, complete with overnight lodges and an events venue. Recent drone footage has captured the significant progress made on this ambitious project, showcasing the emerging structures and buildings that will transport visitors to the heart of the African continent.
Cost and Timings
While the exact cost of the Chester Zoo expansion is not publicly disclosed, it is clear that the zoo is making a substantial investment in these developments. The wedding and events venue is set to open in Spring 2023, while the lakeside lodges and African Savannah development are currently in progress, with no specific completion dates announced.
Hours and Rates
Chester Zoo is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with admission rates starting at £29.50 for adults and £24.00 for children when booked online in advance. Prices may vary during peak seasons and special events.
Value and Other Quantifiable Details
The expansion of Chester Zoo will provide visitors with unique and immersive experiences, such as staying in lodges overlooking the giraffe enclosure and attending events in a luxury venue surrounded by the zoo’s botanical gardens. These new offerings will not only enhance the visitor experience but also contribute to the zoo’s charitable mission, helping to secure a brighter future for wildlife on our planet.
Real-Life Incidents and Statistics
Chester Zoo is renowned for its commitment to conservation, with over 500 species and 21,000 animals, making it one of the most diverse zoos in the UK. The zoo is actively involved in various conservation projects worldwide, including efforts to save endangered species such as the Sumatran tiger, Asian elephant, and Bornean orangutan.