
Why should I care about where to stay in Birmingham, we hear you ask, I already have somewhere to live. But what if you have family and friends visit? Or you just need to escape the squalor of your housemates for a weekend? Nothing beats a staycation in your own city; the opportunity to see Birmingham from a new perspective.
Look no further than The Grand Hotel in the City Centre if you need a hometown escape. The gorgeous hotel was recently named on The Times‘ 100 Best Places to Stay in Britain for 2023. The Grade II* listed building was the only hotel in Birmingham to make the cut!
Built back in 1879 to rival London’s finest hotels, The Grand Hotel attracted the likes of George VI and Charlie Chaplin in its heyday. The glamourous hotel closed in 2002, however, but reopened after 19 years in 2021 after a £50 million refurbishment. Just in time for Birmingham to host the Commonwealth Games, returning with style.
The Times describes its “seductive architecture” as a main pull, while it is also located close to some of Birmingham’s best bars and restaurants. The Grand Hotel “offers a contemporary raciness across 185 rooms and a sassy New York deli vibe in its restaurant.”
“In our first year, we have worked hard to place our guests’ experiences at the fore, providing the best experience possible,” said Peter Kienast, The Grand Hotel Birmingham’s General Manager. “This recognition… is testament to the passion and dedication of our team.”
No other Birmingham made the list, but Hampton Manor in the West Midlands did. A fantastic destination for foodies, the hotel offers an “immersive restaurant-with-rooms experience” thanks to Grace & Savour and onsite chef David Taylor.
The country’s best hotel stay in Britain, however, is The Retreat at Elcot Park in Berkshire. Only a two hour’s drive from Birmingham! To see the entire 100 Best Places to Stay in Britain for 2023 head here.