Oakfield Manor, Chester

Nestled in the historic city of Chester, United Kingdom, Oakfield Manor is not your typical manor house—it's the heart of Chester Zoo, the most visited zoo in the UK and a conservation and education charity committed to preventing extinction. This charming Victorian manor sets the scene for an immersive zoo experience where visitors can explore a world of wildlife amidst the backdrop of a traditional English estate.

Oakfield Manor's story is intertwined with that of Chester Zoo itself, as the manor was the original family home of the zoo's founder, George Mottershead. He purchased the estate in the 1930s with a vision to create a zoo without bars, revolutionizing the way animals were kept. His dream has since flourished into the expansive Chester Zoo that surrounds the manor, home to over 35,000 animals and 128 acres of zoological gardens.

Today, Oakfield Manor serves as a unique venue within the zoo, offering a quaint and distinguished setting for various events, from weddings and conferences to educational workshops. Its traditional architecture and elegant charm provide a stark contrast to the wild and natural habitats that envelop it, creating a surreal juxtaposition that enchants visitors.

While Oakfield Manor itself is not the primary attraction of the zoo, it remains a piece of living history, standing as a testament to the legacy of conservation and the spirit of innovation that Chester Zoo represents. Visitors to the zoo can catch a glimpse of the manor and, on certain occasions, step inside to enjoy the ambiance of a bygone era, all while supporting the zoo's mission of conservation.