[3] Barnston is mentioned in the Domesday Book as Bernestone and comprised two mills, a manor house and a hospital.

[10][11][12] On 1 April 1974, local government reorganisation in England and Wales resulted in most of Wirral, including Barnston, being transferred from the county of Cheshire to Merseyside.

[13] Village landmarks include Christchurch parish church, which was opened in 1871,[14][15] a primary school[16][17] and the Fox & Hounds public house.

[18][19] The Barnstondale Centre, originally Scott's Field and known locally as 'The Camp', is set on a 15-acre (6.1 ha) site which includes woodland.

[21] Heswall railway station on the Borderlands Line is located approximately 1.1 miles (1.8 km) from Barnston and provides services between Wrexham and Bidston.