The present hall was constructed in 1745 and was first occupied by the Ashton family, other members of which lived at Burscough Hall untill 1890 demonstrating the Ashtons were a highly established and influential family in the area. Their name can still be seen inscribed on the front of the hotel to this very day.

Mr. J. Ainscough of H&R Ainscough Ltd acquired the hall in 1902 and oversaw significant modifications. By 1910, it was among the first local homes with electricity, supplied from Briars Mill, which had been generating power since 1885—Burscough and Lathom did not receive electricity until 1932. The Ainscoughs were also early adopters of the telephone, their number being “Burscough 1.”

H&R Ainscough, founded by Hugh Ainscough in the early 19th century, built mills at Parbold and Burscough, benefiting from direct canal access for importing American wheat via Liverpool.

The family ran a prize-winning shire horse stud at the hall, with champions including Burscough Premier, Burscough Boadicea, Burscough Beautiful, and Burscough Ironcladia. More recently, Ginger McCain grazed exceptional horses here, including the legendary Red Rum.

After extensive renovations, Briars Hall opened as a hotel on 12 February 1970, proudly celebrating its rich history and heritage.