You can do gin tasting in many a place these days, but no where quite as special as this.
Chester Zoo is opening up its doors after hours for an exclusive, one-off event where visitors will get to sample a selection of gin cocktails inspired by the plants at the attraction.
The gin-tasting event is being brought to guests by the zoo's plant conservationists and visitors will be given the chance to explore the zoo's exotic rare plant collection and talk to the expert hosts.
The event will take place in the zoo's grade II listed restaurant, The Oakfield, and will feature specially created botany inspired gin cocktails and canapes.
Guests will also get to take a behind the scene trip to the orchid greenhouse and take a walk of the Foragers Garden where you get to taste some of the edible plants that are planted at the zoo.
They'll also reveal how the zoo's 125 acres of zoologicial gardens play a part in the the secret creation of the award-winning Cuckoo Gin.
Phil Esseen, Chester Zoo's Curator of Botany and Horticulture, said: "Everyone knows that the zoo is a world leader in animal care and conservation, but scratch beneath the surface and you’ll find a hidden zoo, full of delicate flowers and incredible gardens.
"Indeed, the zoo is home to over 900 different species of orchid, many critically endangered; boasts three National Collections of cacti and many truly unique UK native species.
"As a conservation charity, we are determined to prevent the extinction of threatened species, and that includes plants.
"We're always keen to inspire our visitors into helping us protect rare plants, as well as animal species. For many of us, understanding the importance of botany in gin seems a good place to start!"
The exclusive event will take play on Friday, August 30 with ticket prices set at £60. Income from ticket sales supports the zoo’s work as a global conservation charity.
To book your place you can do so on the Chester Zoo website here.
