The Exchange Bar Travel Guide

The Exchange Bar occupies a striking building modelled on New York’s Flatiron, located at 50 Rutland Street in Leicester’s Cultural Quarter. Originally constructed as part of Leicester’s rich commercial heritage, the building has seen many lives—from a bustling corn exchange to a printing press and furniture store—before its transformation into the vibrant bar it is today. This historic setting lends the venue a unique character, blending vintage charm with modern urban energy.

Situated among creative neighbours such as The Curve Theatre, The Phoenix Cinema, and The Leicester Print Workshop, The Exchange Bar thrives as a cultural hotspot. It hosts a lively calendar of events including live music, comedy nights, and art exhibitions, making it a focal point for Leicester’s creative scene. The venue’s atmosphere is both intimate and energetic, inviting visitors to connect over shared experiences in a space that feels both welcoming and inspiring.

Step inside to find exposed brick walls and rustic wooden beams that create a warm, inviting environment. The bar’s interior design balances elegance with a casual vibe, featuring comfortable retro furnishings that encourage relaxation and socialising. Whether enjoying a quiet drink or dancing to live bands, guests are enveloped in an ambience that is both stylish and approachable.

The Exchange Bar offers an extensive selection of beers, gins, wines, and cocktails crafted by attentive staff who know their craft. Alongside drinks, the menu features popular pizzas that can be paired with fries, coleslaw, and drinks for a satisfying meal deal. The bar’s dedication to quality and variety ensures there is something for everyone, from casual visitors to foodies seeking a hearty bite.

The venue boasts multiple areas including a cellar bar with a capacity of 85 and an upstairs space for 25 guests, accommodating everything from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations. The Exchange Bar welcomes bookings for parties, corporate meetings, and special events, providing a flexible blank canvas for guests to personalise their experience. Music can be curated by the venue or brought by guests, with options for DJs or live performances.

The Exchange Bar is inclusive and family-friendly, allowing under-18s to attend parties under supervision. It also adheres to strict policies regarding responsible drinking and behaviour to maintain a safe environment. Accessibility is considered with a disabled toilet on the ground floor, although the cellar bar is only accessible by stairs. The venue’s friendly team ensures every guest feels part of the community.