So, Deva, that old chestnut - opened in 1829, designed by architect William Cole Jr and originally housed less than 100 patients, various annexes and wings were built expanding this number to more then 1500. it has had many names, The Cheshire County Asylum, Cheshire County Mental Hospital, Upton Mental Hospital and Deva Mental Hospital.

In the 50's, there were many changes in the treatment of psychiatric patients, with new drugs and a focus on rehabilitation and recovery instead of imprisonment, because of this the number of residential patients was drastically reduced. By the 1980s, less than 4% of patients were compelled to remain in hospital.

In 1983, a new general hospital and an accident unit were opened on the West Cheshire Hospital site and following the visit of the Prince and Princess of Wales on 30 May 1984, the present name, Countess of Chester Hospital, was acquired.



Daz in the hazard room




























The view from the top of the water tower