AN iconic pub in Parkgate has been relaunched after a £250,000 makeover.

The Red Lion’s new look follows investment by owner Greene King Pub Partners and new tenants, Marc Edmunds and Jess Bennett.

The renovation has ensured the traditional features of the pub have been retained while the internal layout has been improved to open up the pub.

The bar has been relocated and walls removed so the space can be fully utilised with drinkers now catered for by one room on two levels served by a central bar.

A full trading kitchen has been installed so a new menu of pub classics like fish and chips and Sunday roasts can be served.

Dating back to at least 1788, the Red Lion is now the last old traditional inn in Parkgate on the main road on the edge of the River Dee Marshes.

Its position gives panoramic views towards Wales and the Dee Estuary and there is a large, attractive beer garden at the rear.

It serves three regular beers with Black Sheep Best Bitter, Morland Old Speckled Hen and Timothy Taylor Landlord all available alongside one changing cask ale.

Marc and Jess, who already operate the Wellington pub in Bebington with Greene King Pub Partners, combined their local knowledge and pub experience to transform the Red Lion with the joint investment.

Marc said: “This pub has such a standout location and looks beautiful now inside and out.

“We have lots of tourism here so we are really looking forward to welcoming back the local community and visitors alike.”

Peter Cunningham, business development manager for Greene King Pub Partners, said: “The Red Lion is in safe hands with Marc and Jess at its helm.

“They know what makes a pub great and how to become central to the community and we wish them every success in this new venture.”

n Red Lion, The Parade, Parkgate, CH64 6SB.

Telephone 0151 336 1548.