3 February 2025
A-listers at The Grand
By Joss Vamplew

Since opening its doors in 1879, The Grand Hotel Birmingham has played host to a dazzling array of famous faces.
Tom Cruise touches down
One of the hotel’s most high-profile recent guests, Tom Cruise, made headlines when he stayed at The Grand in 2021 while filming Mission: Impossible 7. The Hollywood A-lister was seen around the city, drawing crowds wherever he went. His visit added fresh glamour to the hotel’s legacy and reminded everyone that Birmingham continues to play a role on the global stage.
The Beatles and a wave of Beatlemania
In 1965, at the height of their fame, The Beatles stayed at The Grand during their Birmingham tour stop. Their arrival brought a frenzy of fans to the hotel steps, with screams echoing down Colmore Row. It was a moment that cemented The Grand as a magnet for pop culture royalty.
From Churchill to Chaplin: icons of the past
The Grand’s guest list also includes some of the most influential figures of the 20th century. Winston Churchill stayed at the hotel, adding a statesman’s gravitas to its reputation. Charlie Chaplin, the silent film icon, also passed through its doors - no doubt a fitting match for the hotel’s cinematic elegance. And during a groundbreaking visit to the UK, civil rights activist Malcolm X is believed to have visited the hotel, further highlighting its historic significance.
Royal visits and rock legends
Alongside world leaders and film stars, The Grand has also hosted a range of musical and artistic icons. King George VI once stayed during his visits to Birmingham, and the legendary Bob Dylan, as well as actor-musician Johnny Depp, are known to have visited or stayed at the hotel in more recent decades. These visits contribute to a legacy that’s as varied as it is star-studded.
The Grand today: a modern classic
Following a £45 million restoration, The Grand Hotel Birmingham reopened in 2021, reimagining its Victorian grandeur with modern flair. With 185 stylish rooms, the elegant Madeleine cocktail bar, and the buzzing Isaac’s brasserie, it remains a luxurious base for anyone visiting the city - celebrity or not.
From statesmen to superstars, The Grand Hotel continues to be the place where history meets contemporary elegance—right in the heart of Birmingham
About Joss Vamplew
With considerable experience in the hospitality sector, Joss Vamplew has a sharp eye for detail, a deep appreciation for great storytelling, and a knack for understanding what makes people tick. Whether he’s exploring trends in travel, sharing local cultural highlights, or diving into lifestyle and design, Joss writes with clarity, warmth, and a genuine curiosity.
Share this article