The Oakfield at Chester Zoo | Our Story | About us

our story

The Oakfield is where it all began…

HISTORY of CHESTER ZOO

where it all began

In 1930, a beautiful manor house and small parcel of land came up for sale.

George Mottershead had a vision of creating a zoo without bars, a haven for exotic animals to be cared for.  He moved his family to Oakfield House and they started to build their zoo.  A real family affair, ‘The Oakfield’ became the family home, a tea room, an aquarium and now a contemporary British pub that celebrates the rich heritage of Chester Zoo.

Today The Oakfield has been lovingly restored creating a relaxed space that will be the perfect setting to enjoy the best food and drink we can provide.  Around the pub you’ll see precious family photographs and early zoo memories.  We hope you enjoy your visit.

discover more 

explore The Oakfield further

Read through the latest news and updates about The Oakfield, what you can expect from your visit and just how we’ve transformed this beautiful Grade II listed building into a welcoming space for all of our guests.   Find more here >

Chester zoo
discover our Zoo

With over 35,000 extraordinary animals, 125 acres of zoological gardens and 2 million visitors every year there’s so much to find out about our zoo

opening times

Monday 10am - 5pm
Tuesday 10am - 5pm
Wednesday 10am - 5pm
Thursday 10am - 5pm
Friday 10am - 11pm
Saturday 10am - 5pm
Sunday 10am - 5pm