The first images of Chester Zoo's new wedding and events venue have been revealed.
The lavish 200-capacity venue, The Square, has launched following a three-year project to restore the zoo's Grade II-listed stable block, which has stood at the heart of the 128-acre conservation zoo since it opened in 1931.
The historic building will offer a unique setting for weddings, with couples able to tie the knot surrounded by the zoo's 27,000 animals. According to bosses, the new venue can also be booked for meetings and events, and will hopefully stage important global summits on wildlife conservation in the future.
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As well as providing couples with a one-of-a-kind wedding experience, income generated by every event taking place at the venue will contribute to the zoo’s charitable mission to prevent extinction, helping zoo conservationists to secure a brighter future for wildlife.
Jamie Christon, CEO at Chester Zoo, said: “There’s nothing else quite like this stunning new venue anywhere in the UK. It’s an incredible building that’s stood at the heart of the zoo for approaching a century and, through careful restoration, it’s now been brought to life.
"It’s a one-of-a-kind space which not only embodies the zoo’s rich history and character, but offers modern luxuries and comforts. And what’s more, who wouldn’t want to get married or have a company away day surrounded by 27,000 animals?
“Most importantly, each and every occasion that takes place at The Square will contribute to our charitable mission to prevent extinction, helping us to secure a brighter future for wildlife worldwide. That’s what makes our new venue incredibly special and we can’t wait to start welcoming people to it.”
Boasting a number of preserved original features that tell the story of its impressive history, the building includes a striking gated entrance, a large private courtyard, exposed brick walls, vaulted rafters and large windows overlooking newly created gardens. Many of the patterns and textures used throughout the building also draw inspiration from the endangered species the zoo is working hard to protect.
The main event room, The Atrium, can accommodate 200 guests while three other reception and breakout rooms take the total capacity of the building to 380. Each of the rooms can be used on their own or used in combination, giving the building the flexibility to be able to host all types of event.
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