The Exchange Bar: Leicester's Historic Cultural Hub
Historic charm meets vibrant culture in Leicester’s iconic Exchange Bar, a lively hub for drinks, music, and community spirit.
Nestled in Leicester’s vibrant Cultural Quarter, The Exchange Bar is a lively venue housed in a striking historic building once known as the Leicester Corn Exchange. Famed for its eclectic live music, extensive drink selection, and vintage-industrial charm, it offers a welcoming atmosphere blending history with contemporary urban flair. Whether enjoying craft cocktails, local ales, or social events, visitors experience a unique fusion of heritage and creativity in the heart of the city.
A brief summary to The Exchange Bar
- 50 Rutland St, Leicester, LE1 1RD, GB
- +441163323301
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-12 am
- Tuesday 10 am-12 am
- Wednesday 10 am-12 am
- Thursday 10 am-12 am
- Friday 10 am-1 am
- Saturday 10 am-1 am
- Sunday 1 pm-8 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed atmosphere and enjoy live music events scheduled regularly.
- Try the vegan scotch egg and pizza meal deals for a satisfying food experience alongside your drinks.
- Book the cellar bar or upstairs space in advance for private parties or corporate events.
- Enjoy the unique urban flare décor and vintage charm that create a cozy yet lively setting.
- Check the bar’s event calendar online to catch comedy nights, live bands, and social games.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Exchange Bar location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Exchange Bar
A Landmark Steeped in History and Character
The Exchange Bar resides in one of Leicester’s most iconic buildings, originally constructed in the late 19th century as the Corn Exchange. This triangular, Flatiron-style structure was once a bustling marketplace for grain merchants, reflecting the city’s commercial heritage. Over the decades, the building evolved through various uses—a printing press, furniture store—before its transformation into the vibrant bar it is today. The architecture retains its historic essence, with exposed brick walls and rustic wooden beams that echo the building’s storied past while providing a warm, inviting environment.A Dynamic Venue in Leicester’s Cultural Quarter
Located on Rutland Street, The Exchange Bar sits amid Leicester’s thriving Cultural Quarter, neighboring creative hubs such as The Curve Theatre, The Phoenix Cinema, and The Maker’s Yard. This proximity to arts and entertainment venues enriches the bar’s atmosphere, making it a favored spot for pre- and post-show gatherings. The venue hosts a diverse calendar of events including live music, comedy nights, and community activities, fostering a lively yet intimate ambiance that caters to a broad audience.Eclectic Drinks and Culinary Offerings
The Exchange Bar boasts an extensive selection of beverages, from craft beers and fine wines to expertly crafted cocktails. The drink menu is complemented by a food offering that includes popular pizzas and meal deals with sides and drinks, catering to varied tastes including vegan options. The bar’s atmosphere is enhanced by its urban flare décor, combining vintage charm with contemporary design elements that appeal to both locals and visitors.Spaces Designed for Every Occasion
Versatility defines The Exchange Bar’s interior layout, with spaces suitable for intimate conversations, lively socializing, or private events. The cellar bar accommodates up to 85 guests, while the upstairs area offers a cozier setting for smaller groups. The venue welcomes bookings for parties, corporate meetings, and celebrations, providing a flexible canvas for memorable experiences. Music can be personalized by guests, with options to play their own playlists or hire DJs, adding to the bar’s inclusive and creative spirit.Community and Culture Intertwined
More than just a bar, The Exchange is a cultural hub that embraces Leicester’s diverse community. Its programming often features local artists and musicians, supporting the city’s creative scene. The staff are known for their friendly and attentive service, contributing to a familial atmosphere where patrons feel valued. The venue’s commitment to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment is evident in its policies and attentive management.Accessibility and Practical Details
Open daily with varying hours that extend late into the night on weekends, The Exchange Bar is accessible for a wide range of visitors. While the cellar bar is reached by stairs, a disabled toilet is available on the ground floor, ensuring some level of accessibility. The venue’s location in Leicester city center is convenient for those exploring the Cultural Quarter, making it an ideal stop for both casual drinks and special occasions.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Welford Place
0.5 km
Explore the historic John Biggs statue at Welford Place, a Victorian landmark celebrating Leicester’s reformist legacy and civic pride.
23 St.Nicholas Pl
0.8 km
Leicester's oldest place of worship, where Roman foundations meet medieval splendour and 1,100 years of history.
Leicester Roman West Gate site
0.9 km
Explore Leicester’s monumental Roman baths and the iconic Jewry Wall, a testament to ancient urban life and architecture.
Museum Development East Midlands
4.7 km
Supporting East Midlands museums with expert guidance, grants, and training from County Hall, Leicester.
King Lear
5.5 km
Explore Leicester’s legendary ties to King Lear, where Roman ruins and medieval myths converge in a captivating historical landmark.
Earl Shilton Castle
13.6 km
Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.
Memorial Clock Tower
19.4 km
A towering Gothic-revival memorial in Coalville honoring 354 fallen WWI soldiers with a commanding clock and rich community history.
Westmorland Drive
28.0 km
Experience seamless travel in Nuneaton at the Westmorland Drive bus stop, your gateway to local attractions and vibrant community life.
Bedworth Water Tower
29.6 km
A towering Romanesque water tower blending industrial heritage, architectural charm, and urban wildlife in the heart of Bedworth.
Rushton Triangular Lodge
32.0 km
Explore the architectural wonder of Rushton Triangular Lodge, a unique heritage building steeped in history and stunning design.
Old Trent Bridge
33.6 km
A historic river crossing in Nottingham blending medieval origins with Victorian engineering and enduring local heritage.
Lamport Hall
34.3 km
Explore Lamport Hall, a stunning historical landmark in Northamptonshire, where rich heritage and breathtaking gardens await every traveler.
Wollaton Park Lake
34.7 km
Discover the tranquility of Wollaton Park Lake in Nottingham, an ideal retreat for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Public Art - The Sneinton Dragon
34.9 km
Discover the enchanting Sneinton Dragon, a striking public art sculpture in Nottingham, embodying local heritage and artistic expression.
Mortimer’s hole
35.0 km
Explore Mortimer's Hole in Nottingham - a captivating historical landmark steeped in legend and medieval intrigue.
Unmissable attractions to see
Leicester Market
0.4 km
Europe’s largest outdoor covered market, blending 700 years of history with vibrant multicultural produce and lively community spirit.
The Clock Tower
0.4 km
Discover the historic Clock Tower in Leicester, a stunning landmark that encapsulates the city's rich heritage and vibrant local culture.
Veeno
0.5 km
Experience authentic Sicilian wines and Italian small plates in Leicester’s vibrant St Martins Square at Veeno.
King Richard III Visitor Centre
0.6 km
Discover the incredible story of King Richard III’s life, death, and rediscovery at the site where history was unearthed beneath a Leicester car park.
Highcross
0.6 km
Leicester’s vibrant shopping and entertainment destination with over 120 stores, diverse dining, and a luxury cinema experience.
Leicester Cathedral
0.6 km
Discover the historic Leicester Cathedral, home to King Richard III’s tomb and centuries of Gothic splendor in the heart of Leicester.
The Guildhall Museum
0.7 km
Explore 600 years of Leicester’s history in a beautifully preserved medieval timber-framed Guildhall, from Shakespearean theatre to Victorian police cells.
Leicester Museum and Art Gallery
0.7 km
Discover Leicester’s rich heritage through captivating art, natural history, and interactive family galleries on historic New Walk.
The Newarke Houses Museum
0.9 km
Explore Leicester’s Tudor heritage, immersive WWI trench, and vibrant Victorian shops amid tranquil historic gardens.
Jewry Wall & Roman Baths
0.9 km
Explore one of Britain’s largest Roman masonry structures and immerse yourself in Leicester’s ancient Roman baths and heritage museum.
Leicester Castle
0.9 km
Explore Leicester Castle’s medieval heritage and royal connections in the heart of the city, where history and architecture intertwine.
Abbey Park
1.4 km
Discover Abbey Park, Leicester’s historic riverside haven blending tranquil gardens, medieval ruins, and family-friendly fun just north of the city centre.
Leicester Abbey
1.7 km
Explore the evocative 12th-century Leicester Abbey ruins amid tranquil riverside gardens and family-friendly attractions in historic Abbey Park.
The Blackbird
1.9 km
A welcoming Leicester grill pub serving hearty sizzling dishes and classic pub fare in a lively community atmosphere.
National Space Centre
2.1 km
Explore the UK’s largest planetarium and iconic rocket tower at Leicester’s National Space Centre, a hub of space discovery and interactive science fun.
Essential places to dine
Casa Romana Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm at Casa Romana, Leicester’s cherished seafood and pasta haven.
The White Peacock
0.5 km
Elegant modern European dining with innovative tasting menus and warm service in Leicester’s vibrant city centre.
The Frame
0.5 km
A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Leicester’s St Martins Square, blending refined flavours with stylish, inviting surroundings.
Bistrot Pierre - Leicester
0.5 km
Experience authentic French bistro dining in Leicester’s city centre with classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a warm Parisian atmosphere.
Merchant of Venice
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and Renaissance-inspired charm in Leicester’s Merchant of Venice, a unique dining destination blending culture and cuisine.
Varanasi Boutique Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Leicester’s majestic Varanasi Boutique, where culinary artistry meets opulent ambiance.
Wygston's House Bar & Restaurant
0.7 km
Historic 15th-century timber-framed house in Leicester’s Old Town serving classic English pub fare and real ales in a vibrant, heritage-rich setting.
Cosy Club
0.8 km
Stylish British dining and vibrant bar in Leicester’s heart, blending timeless glamour with all-day menus and festive event spaces.
Restaurant263
0.8 km
Experience innovative modern British fine dining with personal chef touches and vibrant vegan options in Leicester’s stylish city centre venue.
Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant
0.8 km
Savor fresh seafood and American-inspired dishes in a lively, casual setting at Leicester’s vibrant Sapphire Seafood Kitchen.
OGGI Italian Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality at OGGI Italian Restaurant in Leicester’s vibrant London Road.
Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto
1.5 km
Authentic Romanian flavors and generous portions await you at Grande Gusto, Leicester’s cozy hub for traditional Eastern European cuisine.
Black Iron
3.5 km
Modern British steakhouse in a historic Georgian mansion, offering charcoal-roasted meats and a refined dining experience in leafy Leicester parkland.
Sapori Restaurant & Bar
5.9 km
Family-run Italian dining in a stylish Victorian setting, blending Neapolitan tradition with modern elegance and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Dom restaurant and bar
10.4 km
A celebrated small plates restaurant in Thurlaston offering refined flavors and a warm, intimate dining experience in a charming village setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Pot Pourri Shop Leicester
0.2 km
Discover Leicester’s hidden gem for natural aromatherapy and handcrafted gifts on Free Lane, blending quality, charm, and personalized service.
Haymarket Shopping Centre
0.4 km
Leicester's pioneering indoor shopping centre with 60+ stores, dining, and award-winning facilities.
Urban Outfitters
0.4 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Leicester: a stylish blend of fashion, accessories, and homewares in the vibrant heart of the city.
Nim's Boutique ltd
0.4 km
Discover timeless Indian and Asian women's fashion with inclusive sizing and exquisite bridal wear at Nim's Boutique Ltd in Leicester.
Just Fair Trade
0.5 km
Discover Leicester’s ethical gem offering fair trade gifts and sustainable clothing with a heart for global artisans.
The Wardrobe
0.5 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Leicester’s longest-running vintage clothing shop in the historic Royal Arcade.
St George's Shopping Park
0.5 km
A vibrant open-air retail park in Leicester offering diverse shops, extended hours, and convenient amenities for a comprehensive shopping experience.
Very Bazaar Leicester
0.6 km
Discover Leicester’s vibrant Very Bazaar, a colourful haven of crystals, unique gifts, and mystical charm in the city centre.
Set
0.6 km
Award-winning gifts, jewellery, and cards in a historic High Street gem with royal connections.
Arciide
0.6 km
Leicester's premier vintage and Y2K streetwear destination for curated pre-loved fashion and authentic brand collections.
Niche Store
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and thoughtful treasures in Leicester’s charming Niche Store, where quality meets personal service.
The Source
0.6 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts with expert service at The Source, Leicester’s cherished family-owned gift shop on Church Gate.
Menkind
0.6 km
Discover unique gadgets, quirky gifts, and exclusive toys at Menkind Leicester in the vibrant Highcross shopping district.
The Range, Leicester
1.7 km
Inspiring homes and creative lives—where furniture, décor, and imagination meet under one expansive roof.
Valley Discount Store
1.8 km
A vibrant Leicester discount store offering diverse homewares, kitchenware, toys, and more under one roof with great value and friendly service.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Exchange Bar
0.0 km
Historic charm meets vibrant culture in Leicester’s iconic Exchange Bar, a lively hub for drinks, music, and community spirit.
Brick & Beam
0.1 km
A stylish rooftop bar in Leicester offering live jazz, craft drinks, and unique event spaces with stunning city views.
Watson's Cocktail Bar
0.2 km
A vibrant vegan-inspired cocktail bar in Leicester blending quirky charm, expert mixology, and a warm, inclusive atmosphere.
Fat Cat Cocktail Bar & Lounge
0.4 km
A vibrant Leicester hotspot blending creative cocktails, lively entertainment, and a stylish atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Inside No 9
0.4 km
A stylish Leicester cocktail bar blending expert gin craft, live music, and intimate private events in a historic city centre setting.
Knight & Garter
0.5 km
A stylish Italian-inspired steakhouse and vibrant bar in Leicester, offering expertly cooked local beef, boutique drinks, and a lively weekend atmosphere.
The Distillery
0.5 km
Lively city-centre pub offering craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, stacked burgers, and a vibrant atmosphere for dining and socializing in Leicester.
Tønne Bar
0.5 km
A stylish craft beer and cocktail bar in Leicester’s heart, perfect for late nights and diverse drink lovers.
Duffy's Bar
0.5 km
A vibrant, affordable city-centre pub in Leicester known for its welcoming atmosphere and lively social scene.
Firebug
0.5 km
Leicester’s energetic pub and live music venue blending cocktails, comedy, and culture in a vibrant city centre setting.
The Bottle Garden Leicester
0.5 km
An urban garden oasis in Leicester serving creative cocktails and live jazz in a stylish, relaxed setting.
The Blue Boar
0.5 km
A historic Leicester micropub blending traditional real ales with a fresh, sociable atmosphere and classic British pub fare.
The King's Head
0.6 km
A traditional Leicester pub famed for its exceptional ales, warm community spirit, and charming character in the city centre.
The Globe - Pub & Kitchen
0.6 km
A traditional Leicester pub blending classic Everards ales, hearty local fare, and warm community spirit in a cozy historic setting.
The Gadabout
0.6 km
A stylish, quirky cocktail bar in Leicester offering a vast selection of drinks in an intimate, character-filled setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Helsinki
0.2 km
Leicester’s vibrant LGBTQ+ nightclub with electrifying drag shows, diverse music, and late-night celebrations in the heart of the city.
Waikiki Nightclub
0.3 km
Experience Leicester’s electric nightlife with futuristic vibes, trendy cocktails, and top RnB beats at Waikiki Nightclub every weekend.
TRUTH Leicester
0.4 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at TRUTH, a dynamic nightclub pulsing with music and energy in the city centre’s entertainment heart.
The Basement
0.5 km
Leicester’s underground hotspot for late-night dancing, eclectic music, and unforgettable private events in a vintage-inspired setting.
Motto Nightclub
0.5 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at Motto Nightclub, a dynamic venue where music, dancing, and late-night energy come alive.
The Fan Club
0.6 km
Leicester’s vibrant weekend nightclub with four rooms, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Club Republic
0.6 km
Experience Leicester’s ultimate clubbing hotspot with immersive audiovisuals, live gigs, and a vibrant student-friendly atmosphere.
Corah Works
0.7 km
Experience Leicester’s rich textile heritage transformed into a vibrant nightlife hotspot at Corah Works on St John Street.
Mosh
0.8 km
Leicester’s vibrant three-floor alternative nightclub, buzzing with indie, emo, and metal beats and budget-friendly drinks.
The 2Funky Lounge
1.2 km
Leicester’s energetic two-floor nightclub with live music, private parties, and a rooftop terrace for unforgettable nights out.
Echo's Night Club
16.2 km
Loughborough’s energetic nightclub with dual rooms, affordable drinks, and a lively student-friendly atmosphere on Biggin Street.
The Emporium
19.3 km
Experience Coalville’s vibrant nightlife at The Emporium, where legendary DJs and electric atmospheres create unforgettable weekends.
Tubes
21.8 km
Energetic nightlife and affordable drinks come alive at Tubes, Melton Mowbray’s go-to nightclub and bar for fun and dancing.
Ciros Nightclub
26.2 km
Energetic nightlife hotspot in Ashby-de-la-Zouch offering music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene in a central market town setting.
Ocean Nightclub
35.0 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly