Founded in 1983, the Orchestra was originally connected with St Bridget's Church in West Kirby, and known as the St Bridget’s Orchestra. It changed its name in September 1995 to the Wirral Symphony Orchestra (WSO) to reflect its increasing size, repertoire and prominence. By 2005, the Orchestra had become a large and vibrant musical body, and established itself as an independent organisation in its own right. The Wirral Symphony Orchestra is a Registered Charity (No 1112140). 

From 1995 to 2008 the WSO was conducted by Gabrielle Horne, and in Autumn 2008 the Orchestra announced the appointment of Jonathan Small, Principal Oboe of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra as its new Conductor.

The majority of concerts are performed at Hoylake Chapel, although the Orchestra has played also in Wallasey Town Hall, Pacific Road Arts Centre and in West Kirby.