AN HISTORIC country house retreat, which faced possible closure only four years ago, has been given a £1.25m makeover.

Foxhill, near Frodsham – which has historic links to Liverpool and Chester – is to be re-opened to visitors by the Archbishop of York later this week.

The house was at various times home to members of the Pilkington Glass and Greenhall brewing dynasties, as well as James Reynolds, a Liverpool leather merchant who traded from Pilgrim Street in the city.

In the 1960s, the Italianate-style mansion was bequeathed to the Anglican Diocese of Chester by Dr Lawrence Pilkington, of the glass-making family, and has been in use since 1969 for spiritual retreats and meetings.

Set in 70 acres of gardens and woodland in Cheshire, between Chester and Warrington, just four years ago the centre was struggling to survive.

But the Diocese of Chester decided to embark on an ambitious refurbishment to equip it for modern conferences, as well as retreats.

Now re-branded as a Diocesan Retreat and Conference Centre, the completion of the improvements coincides with Foxhill’s 40th anniversary as a diocesan centre.

Already guests are impressed with the refurbishments, and Warden Ian Cameron said those who have seen the make-over have responded positively to the centre’s new and improved facilities.

He said: “We get comments left in our visitors’ book that are wonderful to read, and many marvellous letters from visitors saying how much they enjoyed their stay here.”

All bedrooms at Foxhill are now en-suite. Disabled access is possible to all conference and worship areas. Bedrooms are available for guests with disabilities and their carers.