Stunning new images have revealed what Chester Zoo‘s upcoming luxury wedding and events venue will look like when it opens next year.
The UK’s biggest charity zoo has released an exclusive set of artist’s impressions providing a first glimpse of the wildlife charity’s new 200-capacity wedding destination – which is named ‘The Square’ and is scheduled to open in spring 2023.
The pictures show the building’s bright and spacious interiors, and the rooms feature patterns and textures that draw inspiration from the zoo’s mission to prevent the extinction of endangered species.
The luxury space is an extension of an existing Grade II-listed stable block that has stood at the heart of the 128-acre zoo since it opened in 1931.
The original structures were once home to some of the zoo’s first animals such as lions, bears, and chimpanzees, and conservationists at the zoo say they plan to retain the “rich history and character” of the building through the renovation.
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Artist impression images of The Square at Chester Zoo set to open in 2023 / Credit: Chester ZooArtist impression images of The Square at Chester Zoo set to open in 2023 / Credit: Chester Zoo
The space will also be extended in some areas using sustainably sourced and wildlife-friendly materials.
Featuring an impressive gated entrance, the unique building will also have its own large private courtyard, exposed brick walls, vaulted rafters, and large windows overlooking the zoo’s botanical gardens.
There’ll also be a whole host of preserved historical features too.
Speaking ahead of the venue’s launch next year, Jamie Christon – CEO at Chester Zoo – said: “Work is underway to bring to life this incredible building that has stood at the heart of the zoo for more than 91 years.
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Artist impression images of The Square at Chester Zoo set to open in 2023 / Credit: Chester Zoo
“The Square will be a special, one-of-a-kind space that preserves the zoo’s rich history and character, while also adding a modern twist to its interior that showcases our plans for a more sustainable future.
While the zoo has, for some time, offered an intimate wedding and events space at The Oakfield gastropub, which can hold around 50 guests, we’re frequently asked if we can accommodate larger scale events.
“That’s why we’re really excited to begin welcoming guests to this incredible new venue from early next year.
“But what’s particularly special is that income generated by each and every occasion that takes place at The Square will contribute to our charitable mission and help us to secure a brighter future for wildlife on our planet.
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“When The Square opens in spring 2023, there will be nothing else quite like it in the UK.”
Artist impression images of The Square at Chester Zoo set to open in 2023 / Credit: Chester Zoo
The grand opening of The Square is planned for spring 2023, and wedding dates are still available.
The main event room is planned to have a capacity of 200, while reception and breakout rooms brings the total capacity of the building to 380.
You can find out more, and enquire about your wedding or event here.
Featured Image – Chester Zoo
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Mancs wanted to take part in a new series of the ‘hardest quiz show on TV’
Emily Sergeant
Call yourself a clever clogs? The BBC is currently looking for contestants to take part in what is widely considered the hardest quiz show on TV.
That’s right – Only Connect is back for another series on BBC Two.
Presented by Victoria Coren Mitchell and first broadcast all the way back in 2008, Only Connect takes TV quizzing to the next level, as it sees two teams compete against each other by finding connections between seemingly unrelated clues.
In this quiz show – which viewers have dubbed one of the most challenging there is – knowledge only takes you so far, as the ability to think laterally is also deemed ‘vitally important’.
A casting call for the upcoming 2027 series has been shared on the BBC website, with people from Greater Manchester encouraged to apply.
Mancs wanted to take part in a new series of the ‘hardest quiz show on TV’ / Credit: BBC
The casting call reads: “The popular BBC Two quiz show presented by Victoria Coren Mitchell returns for a new series in 2027.
“Only Connect is seeking teams of three players OR single applicants or teams of two looking for like-minded teammates to pool their combined wits to solve fiendish conundrums and vexing puzzles.
“This is the quiz series where, as in life itself, knowledge will only take you so far: patience and lateral thinking are also vital. It’s all about making connections between things which may appear, at first glance, not to be connected at all.”
Reckon you’ve got what it takes then? Applications are now open, and all applicants must be aged 18 or over and a resident in the UK or Channel Islands.
Massive student night returns to Trafford Centre next month with up to 50% off on big brands
Emily Sergeant
Students can get themselves up to 50% off on food, activities, and loads of big-name brands at the Trafford Centre next month.
With thousands of new and returning students starting to arrive for the new academic year at Greater Manchester‘s universities, one of the region’s biggest student nights will be making a long-awaited comeback for one night only next month – and there’ll be loads of exclusive offers and free entertainment to make the most of across the evening.
Taking over the Trafford Centre in early October, the popular one-off student night is happening in partnership with Student Beans, and gives cash-strapped students the chance to shop a variety of incredible discounts all under one roof.
Just some of the big brands offering big discounts include 25% off at Levi’s and Boux Avenue, 20% off at Gymshark, Hollister and Abercrombie & Fitch, and 15% off at KIKO, Rituals, and Sephora.
It’s not just retail brands you’ll be able to save some pennies on either, as many of the Trafford Centre’s restaurants and cafes will also be offering discounts and freebies on the night too.
Alongside the offers, students can expect plenty of live entertainment and in-store experiences throughout the evening, including a DJ set and drinks at Calvin Klein, in-store fitness challenges and at Gymshark, an exclusive piercing event at Lovisa, and a Beauty Hub takeover at Sephora.
There’ll also be ‘spin-to-win’ opportunities at places like schuh, River Island, and YO! Sushi.
Massive student night returns to Trafford Centre next month with up to 50% off on big brands / Credit: Supplied
“Student Night is one of the highlights of our autumn calendar, and we’re excited to welcome students for an evening of brilliant offers and feel-good experiences,” explained Simon Layton, who is the Centre Director at the Trafford Centre.
“Whether they are updating their wardrobe, stocking up on beauty favourites, grabbing a bite to eat or enjoying the atmosphere with friends, there is plenty to discover across the centre.
“With simple transport links from Manchester city centre and across the region, Trafford Centre is the perfect place for a student night out.”
The Trafford Centre’s Student Night is happening on Thursday 1 October from 6-10pm, and students can now reserve themselves a spot by registering online HERE.
Emily Sergeant -
1st July 2022 
