Our History

The Grand View Hotel’s story began in 1851, standing proudly as a cornerstone of Cleveland’s history for over 170 years. From its early days as Cleveland House and The Brighton Hotel to the beloved Grand View it is today, this place has been more than just a hotel — it has been a gathering point for generations. Countless memories have been made here — celebrations, quiet moments on the verandah, and shared stories over a drink, all with the bay’s gentle breeze as a constant companion.

Recognised for its historical significance, the Grand View was added to the Queensland Heritage Register on October 21, 1992 — a nod to its enduring presence in the heart of the community. And just as it has stood the test of time, we look forward to it welcoming guests for centuries to come.

1

1851

The origins of the Grand View Hotel trace back to August 1851, when the Hon. Francis Edward Bigge, a grazier from Mount Brisbane Station and a member of the New South Wales Legislative Council, acquired the site. Bigge was a fervent advocate for developing Cleveland into a major port, investing substantially in local industry and housing to bolster the area’s growth.

2

1852

The earliest section of the hotel, built as a prominent demonstration of confidence in Cleveland’s future development, appears to have been erected by 1852, but appears to have remained unoccupied for several years. Known colloquially as Bigge’s Folly, and formally as Cleveland House, it contained two sitting rooms and five bedrooms with a kitchen and servants’ rooms connected via a covered passageway. The core was surrounded by a 3-metre (9.8 ft) wide verandah.

3

1855 to 1860

From 1855 to 1860 John Vincent Cassim, a Kangaroo Point boarding house keeper, leased Cleveland House as a boarding establishment. Stabling, a coach-house, store and tap were erected in mid-1860. By 1862 the building had been leased by publican William Rae as the Brighton Hotel, with its own bathing-house and jetty, and 10-metric-ton (9.8-long-ton; 11-short-ton) pleasure cutter.

4

1874

Prior to the construction of St Pauls Anglican Church in 1874, the building served as a venue for Anglican services, highlighting its role as a community hub during Cleveland’s formative years.

5

1878 to 1936

In 1878, publicans Andrew and Mary Goodall acquired the property, initiating extensions to the southeast. Significant renovations in the late 1880s to mid-1890s resulted in the two-storeyed structure recognised today, coinciding with the opening of the Cleveland railway line to Cleveland Central and later to Cleveland Point. Around 1910, the establishment adopted the name Grand View Hotel and remained under the stewardship of the Goodall-Singh family until 1936.

6

1940s to 1992

Post-1940s, additional outbuildings were constructed. The 1950s introduced five miniature murals behind the public bar, adding artistic flair. Renovations in 1982 and 1992 modernised facilities while preserving the hotel’s historic essence.

7

1992 to 2019

The Brock Family and Partners owned the Grand View Hotel from 1992 to 2019, enhancing its offerings and solidifying its status as a cherished local establishment. In 2019, the hotel was sold to a private hospitality company and managed by Rydges Hotels & Resorts.

8

2022

In 2022, Kickon Group, led by founder and director Craig Shearer, acquired the Grand View Hotel, marking a new chapter in its storied history.

9

2024

In mid-2024, the Grand View Hotel temporarily closed its doors to undergo an exciting new phase — a thoughtful renovation designed to honour its storied past while embracing modern comforts and innovation.

Notably, during the renovation, a 19th-century water well was discovered beneath the old ‘Emu Bar’ (and what was initially planned to be the new kitchen). This unexpected find has been integrated into the new design, allowing guests to connect with the hotel’s rich past.

10

2025

The Grand View Hotel is slated to reopen in early July 2025 — refreshed and ready to welcome guests once again. With its breathtaking views of Moreton Bay, rich history, and a renewed sense of elegance, the hotel is set to reclaim its place as a beloved icon of Cleveland — a space where heritage, hospitality, and community converge.