HOTEL: THE GRAND HOTEL BIRMINGHAM

THE HOTEL Originally opened in 1879, a lack of investment and TLC meant this historic hotel – that once welcomed Churchill, Cagney and Chaplin – was forced to close in 2002. Lovingly restored (to the tune of £45m), it re-opened last summer. It's in Colmore Row, one of Birmingham's most elegant and prestigious streets, a 10-minute walk to New Street Station.

covid strategy Meeting and event spaces have sanitising stations and the hotel has engaged the services of Global Secure Accreditation.

THE check-in Guests now enter through a discreet side entrance, up a staircase and into an intimate lobby. Three smartly-dressed staff greeted me and escorted me to my room.

THE room As with most historic hotels, the 185 bedrooms come in all shapes and sizes, making them all refreshingly quirky. My junior suite had an enormous four-poster bed, a scattering of sofas and chairs to lounge about in, and a fabulously bright white bathroom with two marble sinks, a gorgeous standalone bath and a walk-in shower. Molton Brown toiletries and fluffy bathrobes added to the luxury. Nice touches included a yoga mat and an old-fashioned telephone.

THE business Wi-fi was speedy and easy to access and meeting rooms have video conferencing technology. The spectacular Louis Xiv-style grand ballroom, with its intricately-carved ceiling, is worth a peek if you don't have the pleasure of wining and dining there.

THE facilities Quirky cocktails are served at Madeleine, a stylish and opulent ground-floor bar with gothic fireplaces, contemporary chandeliers and low-backed bucket chairs in rusts, reds, and pink velvet and leather. In the basement is Isaac’s, an American dinerstyle restaurant named after the hotel’s founder, Isaac Horton, where breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served. Breakfasts change regularly so long-term guests don't get bored. There's also a private gym, which needs to be booked.

THE verdict Victorian grandeur with art deco glamour, this historic hotel has been given a wonderful new lease of life that respects its glamorous past but embraces a new generation.

THE details The Grand Hotel Birmingham, Colmore Row, B3 2BS; 0121 827 9600; thegrandhotelbirmingham.co.uk Doubles from £136 B&B