‘Beautiful’ Heswall restaurant announces closure

Sheldrakes based on Banks Road in Heswall was known for its stunning panoramic coastal views overlooking North Wales and the Dee Estuary.

The building was once a sailing club in the 1980s before it turned into the much-loved restaurant.

Now the popular restaurant will be saying goodbye to its loyal customers after its owner, Helen Demetrios, announced her decision to close Sheldrakes.

Helen, who has run the restaurant for two decades, described the business as her “proudest achievement to date” as she thanked customers for supporting the venue over the years.

Sheldrakes on Banks Road, Heswall (Image: Google Maps)

In a message to Sheldrake's customers, she said: “I would like to announce I have taken the decision to close Sheldrakes.

“I have had the great privilege of creating a thriving celebration venue and iconic fine dining restaurant with famous ‘views to dine for’. I have enjoyed two decades of beautiful summer evenings on the terrace and winters inside with the roaring fires.

“It is without a doubt my proudest achievement to date, and I will always treasure the happy memories I have been a part of, during the Sheldrakes legacy.

“I would like to thank all the customers, staff, and suppliers who have supported the venue over the last 20 years to make Sheldrakes the household name it has become.

“I will now be focusing my professional efforts on my hotel, Brook Hall, based in Childer Thornton. The doors are always open to any past Sheldrakes customers to visit in the future.”

Helen’s message was met with hundreds of responses from friends and customers, sharing their fond memories at Sheldrakes.

Scott Beeland said: “Oh, I'm absolutely gutted to hear this. Sheldrakes has been my favourite place to eat or even just enjoy a glass of red watching the sunset, over the last 12 years. Thank you, Helen and  all your team, for everything you've done.”

Victoria Plum said: “Ah shame. Such a great venue for summer evenings on the terrace.

Hope it’s not going to be sold for housing plots. Beautiful parts of the Wirral still need to be savored with a lovely meal an amazing view and a class drink.”

Karen McFarland posted: “A very special place to me going back to the days when it was the Dee Sailing Club. I had my wedding reception at Sheldrakes in 1997 and have had many lovely times there. It will be a huge loss to Heswall if it changes from a venue to a residential house.”

Sandy Smith commented: “Enjoyed sitting on that beautiful terrace and shooting so many beautiful weddings here. So many memories were enjoyed too. Wish you the best Helen for your future plans.”

Joanne Mitchell said: “Ah I'm really sorry to hear this. My husband and I have been to Sheldrakes many times and have lots of fond memories there. Such a beautiful setting and gorgeous food. Best of luck with everything.”

Heather Amelia said: “Thank you so much for wonderful memories in an amazing place. Many a happy family occasion was shared here and it will be a sad loss.”