The Crewe Arms Hotel A Brief History 

The Crewe Arms Hotel has been a focal point of Crewe since it was built in the 19th century. It is one of the few remaining buildings from the 19th century ‘new town’. 
Crewe was named after the railway station, built in 1837 with the locomotive works at the forefront. Naturally, because of the railway, the Crewe Arms Hotel was built in 1880, although other records show it was actually built in 1830s. 
 
Whatever the date, the Crewe Arms Hotel was one of Britain’s first railway hotels with its doors opening onto the platform, and remains an impressive brick red building at the gateway to Crewe. 

A Royal Affair 

Queen Victoria’s presence is still felt at the Crewe Arms Hotel. From the fireplace in the lounge, to the blocked-up tunnel that once allowed the Queen to make her way from the station to the hotel in privacy, as well as the royal-named restaurants, her memory is alive and well. 

Who has Visited and Stayed at the Crewe Arms Hotel? 

Arguably, the most famous is Queen Victoria on a stopover on her way to Scotland. A tunnel was purpose-built to protect her from the Cheshire weather and the public eye. This still remains today, although it is now blocked at either end. 
Many celebrities have stayed at the Crewe Arms Hotel over the years including musicians, sportspeople and thespians – who have trodden the boards at another historical Crewe building, The Crewe Lyceum. Rising stars of football have made the hotel their home while building their career with Crewe Alexandra FC, and many football and rugby teams have stayed for a pre-match meal and rest prior to their big game. 
There are even tales of ghostly apparitions in the hotel! A Grey Lady Ghost has been seen and heard by a number of guests, floating up and down the corridor... 

A Modern Day Hotel 

Today, the Crewe Arms Hotel is enjoyed by the people of Crewe as a venue for celebrations, and a local meeting place to enjoy a coffee, lunch or dinner.