Formerly the Gala Casino, I was informed that Grosvenor Casino Birmingham Hill Street underwent a major refurbishment back in 2012 before it opened its doors. I was, therefore, intrigued to see whether the décor was still holding up or whether it was starting to look a little tired.

What’s more, I knew from my pre-visit research that this place openly promotes itself as the Midland’s ‘number one’ entertainment venue – quite a statement considering its sister branch is located on Birmingham’s famous Broad Street. So, it’s safe to say that my expectations were pretty high going in.

Having also recently visited said sister casino, I was on a personal mission to size them up against each other and see which one I thought was the better choice. So, carry on reading and all shall be revealed.

This Grosvenor Casino is located at 84 Hill Street, just across the street from New Street Station. That is pretty close to the centre and supportive of people wishing to arrive by public transport.

The first thing I have to mention is the building itself. Upon first glance, I found it to be clinical and maybe even a little foreboding. However, as the famous saying goes, it’s what’s on the inside that counts so I tried not to let the architecture sabotage my impartiality. And I’m glad I didn’t, as the inside was definitely a step up.

In terms of size, the building itself is impressive but if you’re expecting it all to be filled with tables and machines you’d be wrong. Spread across three floors, you’ll find the casino on the ground floor, the restaurant and bar area on the first floor, and a poker room on the third floor.

Having visited many Grosvenor Casino’s in my time I could tell that this one had undergone refurbishment at some point, despite the fact it was starting to show its age in some places. The carpet sported a luxurious design, there was an imposing chandelier that acted as a centrepiece to the casino floor, and the dimmed lighting added to the atmosphere.

The casino floor itself is not the biggest but I felt as though they had used the space wisely with a complimentary layout. 

In the centre of the room, you’ll find a row of tables offering Roulette, Blackjack, Baccarat, and Three Card Poker. I noticed that not all of them were being manned throughout my visit.

Opposite the line of table games, you’ll find the electronic roulette machines along with all of the slot machines. Speaking of which, the majority of the slot machines on offer are Super V+ Gaminator machines so if that’s your thing, you’re in luck.

On account of it being so quiet, I did manage to try out a good handful of the slots before I chanced my luck at a few rounds of roulette. I had a little natter with the staff member in charge and he informed me that things usually began picking up around dinner time – no surprise there.

A running theme within Grosvenor Casino’s, there was an impressive 150-seat poker room available at this particular venue. I liked that the poker room was on an entirely different floor and therefore away from the hustle and bustle of the main casino floor as it gave it more of an intimate feel. 

I didn’t sit in for any hands during my visit, but I popped in and was pleased with what I found. Only a couple of the tables were being used but considering it was early on in the afternoon, this was justifiable. 

Something else to add is that the casino often puts on poker tournaments and offers specific poker promotions to keep things fresh. The best way of keeping up to date with what’s on offer is via the venue’s dedicated poker Facebook page – Grosvenor Poker Birmingham, Hill Street. Similarly, you can download the Poker Live App which will have all the information about available and tournaments and cash games.

I didn’t find the fact that there is no hotel attached to the casino a big deal really considering the number of them available within walking distance. 

For starters, the easyHotel on John Bright Street is just across the street, or there’s the Travelodge Birmingham Central Bull Ring, Holiday Inn Express, or the Malmaison Birmingham all within a ten-minute walk. You’ll find plenty more options if you head closer into the city centre too.

Just like its sister branch on the other side of town, the Grosvenor Casino Birmingham Hill Street is open 24-hours a day, seven days a week. Though, unlike its sister branch, the tables aren’t all open 24-hours. Table opening hours are from 11am to 6am Monday to Thursday and then from 11am on Fridays until 6am on the following Monday.

Considering the venue is open 24/7, I was impressed with the cleanliness of it. I imagine it is incredibly difficult to keep on top of such things when you never shut the doors but there was nothing out of place during my visit.

Restaurant / Bar: As I mentioned before, the restaurant and bar are located on the first floor. I really enjoyed it being separate from the casino floor as it gives you a chance to unwind and take a proper break. 

In terms of the food on offer, after a quick glance at the menu I realised there was probably going to be something for everyone. From chargrilled chicken, steaks, and fish, to pizzas, pasta, burgers and desserts, you’re spoilt for choice at this place.

The drinks menu was equally as impressive, with beers, cocktails cider, champagne, prosecco, and range of premium spirits on offer. 

There was also a bar located on the casino floor too, so don’t worry about having to climb the stairs every time you fancy a drink while enjoying your favourite games.

Sports: All of the biggest sporting events are covered on various HD screens throughout the bar area on the first floor. This is another reason why I favour sports bars in casinos to be separated from the casino floor – it means customers that are there just to enjoy a drink and watch the game don’t get in the way of people at the tables and vice versa. 

Parking: Those wishing to drive to the casino will be glad to know that there is free parking which comes with a complimentary valet service – fancy! 

Smoking: While smoking is not permitted anywhere within the building, there is a smoking terrace for customers to use. 

Dress Code: A smart/casual dress code is in place but overall, it’s fairly relaxed. Avoid hoodies, offensive slogans, caps, and shorts, if you can, and there won’t be an issue.

Wheelchair users are catered for at this venue thanks to the lift which provides access to all of the floors. There’s also access to disabled toilets. 

I tend to find that bonuses and promotions are few and far between at land-based casinos, especially when you compare it to the best online casinos. However, after enquiring about any available promotions I was directed to the venue’s Facebook page and, on there, I was able to see the various promotions they had running.

Remember, offers are subject to change or may have already ended. However, some of the promotions on offer at the time of my visit included a complimentary breakfast and scratch card, stake £100 to get £20 on slots, spin and win, and various food deals.

I was really impressed by this actually as, like I mentioned, I usually find that land-based casinos can be a little stingy when it comes to customer incentives.

If you are planning a visit to this casino, I’d definitely recommend checking out their Facebook page beforehand, just to see if there are any offers that tickle your fancy.

My experience on a whole was a positive one, but I wouldn’t say it blew me away. Firstly, the décor wasn’t entirely to my taste as I tend to prefer a more traditional take on things, but it was pleasant.

Having driven to the casino I took advantage of the free parking and valet service which was a great touch. 

As it was quiet, it gave me the opportunity to properly scope the place out. Despite the lack of custom, at least one of everything was being manned which meant I could have had a go at anything I fancied. 

The restaurant and bar area did have a nice atmosphere and was the busiest part of the whole place during my visit. I got the impression that it could be quite a popular rendezvous on days when a big sporting event was on.

⭐ Standout Moment

As a self-certified poker devotee, my favourite part of Grosvenor Casino Birmingham Hill Street was the large poker room on the top floor. Separated from the rest of the goings-on of the casino, I felt as though I could have completely lost track of time up there.

Plus, the added bonus of regular tournaments and specific poker promotions only add to this.

Ultimately, Grosvenor Casino Birmingham Hill Street does have a lot to offer but I just don’t think it quite measures up to its sister brand on Broad Street. Perhaps if Grosvenor Casino Birmingham Broad Street was not in the equation, I would rate it more favourably, but with only a mile distance between them, I think it would be an easy decision for me.

The main difference between the two was the atmosphere. I felt the Hill Street Casino lacked atmosphere, possibly on account of it being much bigger.  

However, this is not me advising you to actively avoid the place. I enjoyed my visit and would be happy recommending it as a casino option within the area. The staff were great, the restaurant and bar had ample options, there were enough tables and machines to keep you busy. The poker room on the top floor was fantastic as well. 

If a lively atmosphere is not at the top of your list of desires, I have no doubt you’d have a good time at this casino. 

If your main focus is on poker, I would recommend stopping by on account of the regular tournaments and promotions on offer.

🧭 How to get there

Conveniently located on Birmingham’s popular Hill Street just south of the city centre, people without a car and wishing to arrive by public transport would be best served by arriving at Birmingham New Street station which is just over the road. You’ll find connections to pretty much anywhere from there.

There are some bus stops dotted around which provide transport around the city itself, though none directly outside the venue. 

If you are planning on driving and taking advantage of the casino’s free parking then B5 4AH is the postcode you’ll want.