Hotel Review: The Grand Hotel Birmingham

By Binita Shah-Patel on February 25, 2026

If you're planning a city break in the Midlands, The Grand Hotel Birmingham is one of the most iconic and luxurious places to stay. This luxury hotel in Birmingham city centre has hosted famous names including Winston Churchill and Charlie Chaplin, and after a multimillion-pound refurbishment, it continues to impress with historic charm, contemporary style, and exceptional dining.

Whether you're travelling for business, leisure, or a weekend getaway, here's everything you need to know about staying at The Grand.

Why Stay at The Grand Hotel Birmingham?

From the outside, the hotel's grand façade immediately sets the tone but step inside and the sense of splendour only grows. The interiors combine French Renaissance, Victorian, and Art Deco features, with ornate ceilings, mosaic-tiled floors, and original period details carefully restored throughout the property.

One of the most striking features is the grand staircase, sweeping through all ten floors of the building and supported by gilded marble columns. It's as impressive today as it was when the hotel first opened in 1879, and while there are lifts with modern touches (including miniature screens displaying the day's headlines and weather), the staircase remains a true centrepiece.

Rooms: Grand Deluxe Suite

The hotel offers a range of bedrooms and suites. We stayed in the Grand Deluxe Suite.

Spacious and stylish: High ceilings, period features, and chic décor bring together historic charm with modern design.

Comfortable: With a king-sized bed, plush seating, and a generous bathroom, it's ideal for longer stays or special weekends. The duvet reminded me of my Hybrid Duvet back home, so snuggly and cosy.

Well-equipped: Smart TVs, coffee machines, and thoughtful extras, such as a Yoga Mat, ensure comfort and convenience.

If you're planning a romantic weekend break in Birmingham or simply want a more indulgent base, upgrading to a suite is worth it.

Location: Colmore Row

The Grand Hotel Birmingham is perfectly placed on Colmore Row, one of the city's most prestigious addresses. Its central Birmingham location makes it ideal for:

Quick access to Birmingham New Street station and Snow Hill station
Shopping at the Bullring and Grand Central
Visiting cultural spots such as Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
Exploring the city's bars, cafés, and restaurants

It's hard to beat the convenience of being right in the middle of everything while still enjoying a peaceful, luxurious base.

Dining at The Grand: Isaac's and Madeleine

Guests are spoiled for choice when it comes to dining. The Parisian-inspired Madeleine cocktail bar is a stylish spot for pre-dinner drinks, featuring exposed lights glimmering against charcoal wood panels. It's atmospheric, chic, and the perfect place to start your evening with a glass of wine. Afternoon Tea is also served in this gorgeous space if you wanted to book a leisurely afternoon if indulgence.

Dinner at Isaac's (named after the original founder of the hotel) offers a completely different experience. Marketed as a "New York-style brasserie with a twist of Brum," Isaac's is finished with gleaming pine-green tiles, tessellated floors, and comfy leather booths. The vibe is relaxed but polished, and the menu focuses on classic American comfort food at a reasonable price point.

Highlights include:

Creative cocktails and pre-dinner drinks
Brasserie-style classics alongside modern dishes
A lively yet relaxed atmosphere, ideal for both casual and business dinners

For anyone searching for a restaurant in Birmingham city centre that balances great food with a vibrant setting, Isaac's is a strong choice.

Entertainment: Downstairs at the Grand

One of the most unique features of The Grand is its very own live music venue, Downstairs at the Grand. Styled as a speakeasy, it's one of the best options for live music in Birmingham city centre.

What to expect:

Regular jazz, soul, and modern performances
A curated drinks menu featuring cocktails and premium spirits
A stylish, intimate vibe that makes it perfect for ending the evening

If you're looking for a Birmingham hotel with live music, The Grand stands out thanks to this unique venue.

The Grand Hotel Birmingham is more than just a place to stay. From the gilded marble columns of its grand staircase to the stylish Grand Deluxe Suite, it offers a complete city-centre experience. Add in cocktails at Madeleine, dinner at Isaac's, and live music Downstairs at the Grand, and you have one of the most memorable hotel stays in the city.

Best for: Weekend breaks, business trips, and special occasions
Highlights: Historic features, central location, Grand Deluxe Suite, Isaac's brasserie, Madeleine cocktail bar, and live music venue
Tip: Book a table at Isaac's in advance and check live music listings before your visit.

For anyone looking for the best hotel in Birmingham that combines heritage, style, and entertainment under one roof, The Grand is a standout choice.

Find out more here: https://www.thegrandhotelbirmingham.co.uk/?

I was kindly hosted but all views are my own.