Please note: Due to private functions, The Oakfield will be closed to the public on the following Friday evenings:

15 March 2024
12 April 2024
19 April 2024

The doors of The Oakfield will now open every Friday evening, from 5pm – 11pm, and visitors are able to access our pub via the zoo’s new events entrance on Caughall Road, Upton.

Standing at the heart of our zoo since it was first opened in 1931 by George Mottershead, our founder, The Oakfield is steeped in history and was once home to species including lions, bears, chimpanzees, pelicans and parrots.

In 2018, we lovingly restored the impressive Grade II listed building and turned it into a gastro pub, serving a menu of locally sourced and freshly prepared food and drinks. It has since gone on to win a host of accolades, from regional Taste Cheshire Awards to the international Traveller’s Choice Awards hosted by TripAdvisor – ranking the pub in the top 10% of all of the world’s restaurants.

Don’t get lost on your way! Click to here save the address of our new events entrance.

Jamie Roberts, Food and Beverage Manager at Chester Zoo, said:

“Since The Oakfield reopened in 2018 it has become renowned for its fantastic, fresh food offering. We’ve received some brilliant feedback from zoo visitors – both those from the local area and those coming from further afield. Over the years guests have asked us countless times if The Oakfield could remain open in the evenings, so we thought we’d trial it – who wouldn’t want their local to be inside a zoo surrounded by thousands of animals?

“So, from the beginning of February, we’ll be opening our doors to the public every Friday from 5pm – 11pm, for people to come and enjoy The Oakfield and all it has to offer after the zoo has closed its gates for the day. Whether you’d like to enjoy our tasty menu or would simply like to pop by for a drink, all are welcome to join us right in the heart of Chester Zoo.

“And best of all, everything we make at The Oakfield contributes to the zoo’s vital conservation work – meaning you can enjoy a nice pint or a glass of wine at the end of a busy week knowing that you’re helping to protect endangered species from extinction with every sip.”

*Please note, our current 2 for 1 offer which runs from 15 January to 16 February 2024 does not apply outside of usual zoo opening hours and such, does not apply on Friday evening.*