June reopening for £1.5m Boathouse makeover in Parkgate

The Boathouse in Parkgate, owned by Hydes Brewery, is set to reopen in mid-June following a major refurbishment of the 19th-century venue.

The project includes a new bar area, upgraded bathrooms, a full roof replacement, and a rooftop terrace with a second bar.

Hydes Brewery has appointed Chris Bell as head chef.

Mr Bell said: "This is a brilliant step up for me within Hydes, a company that truly treats its staff like family and invests heavily in career progression through initiatives like its chefs academy.

"Everyone knows The Boathouse for its location, but the new rooftop terrace gives us a massive edge that will change how we handle outdoor dining and summer bookings.

"I am looking forward to getting stuck into the new kitchen, pulling together a brand-new team, and giving the returning crew a fresh start in a brilliant workspace."

Mr Bell has 25 years of experience and has worked across Hydes’ pubs since 2016, including a recent three-year role as senior sous chef at The Harry Beswick in Heswall.

He joins general manager Dale Tozer to lead The Boathouse’s reopening.

The Boathouse at Parkgate is due to re-open later this month after a £1.5m refurbishment (Image: Hydes Brewery)

The pub’s redesign takes inspiration from the Dee Estuary, with terracotta tones, artwork, and bird motifs reflecting the nearby RSPB reserve and Parkgate’s heritage as a Victorian bathing resort.

Adam Mayers, Hydes Brewery managing director, said: "The Boathouse is a flagship site for us and we are setting the bar high.

"All major building work is now complete, including the main repairs and the brand-new extension.

"We saw how well received The Harry Beswick was when we launched it three years ago, and we are putting that exact same level of premium investment into its sister pub."

The revamped Boathouse will offer seasonal menus, chef specials, and Hydes’ traditional cask ale selection.

The refurbishment has also created 25 new jobs across front-of-house and kitchen roles.

Hydes Brewery, based in Media City, Salford, was founded in 1863 and operates more than 40 pubs across the North West and North Wales.