The Royal Exchange: London's Historic Centre of Commerce and Luxury Shopping
A historic neoclassical landmark in London’s financial heart, blending centuries of commerce with luxury shopping and fine dining.
The Royal Exchange in London is a grand neoclassical building founded in the 16th century by Sir Thomas Gresham and opened by Queen Elizabeth I in 1571. Originally established as a centre for trading stocks and goods, it has endured fires and wartime damage to become a prestigious luxury shopping and dining destination in the heart of the City of London, blending rich history with modern retail elegance.
A brief summary to The Royal Exchange
- Royal Exchange, London, EC3V 3LL, GB
- +442072838935
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Luxury
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 7:30 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-10 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-10 pm
- Friday 7:30 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday lunchtimes to experience the vibrant atmosphere of City workers enjoying retail and dining.
- Look for the historical murals inside the courtyard depicting London’s rich past.
- Don’t miss the limestone bust of Abraham Lincoln near one of the entrances, a unique historic feature.
- Explore the luxury boutiques on the ground floor for high-end shopping options.
- Take time to admire the building’s grand neoclassical architecture and sculptural details.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Take the London Underground to Bank station, served by the Central, Northern, Waterloo & City, and DLR lines. The station is approximately a 5-minute walk from the Royal Exchange. Trains run frequently throughout the day, with fares starting from £2.50 using contactless payment or Oyster card.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Bank junction, including routes 8, 11, 23, 26, and 133. Buses run regularly with a typical journey time of 15-30 minutes from central London areas. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for fares, generally around £1.75 per journey.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Taxis and ride-hailing services can drop you off directly at the Royal Exchange. Travel times vary depending on traffic but typically range from 10 to 30 minutes from central London. Expect fares starting around £10-£20.
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Walking
If staying nearby in the City or the West End, walking to the Royal Exchange is a pleasant option. The terrain is flat and fully accessible, with walking times from nearby landmarks ranging from 10 to 25 minutes.
The Royal Exchange location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Royal Exchange
Origins of London's First Purpose-Built Trading Hub
The Royal Exchange was established in 1566 and officially opened in 1571 by Queen Elizabeth I, who granted it its royal title and a licence to sell alcohol and valuable goods. Inspired by the Antwerp Bourse, the world's oldest financial exchange, Sir Thomas Gresham designed the Exchange to serve as a dedicated centre for commerce in the City of London. The site was provided by the City of London Corporation and the Worshipful Company of Mercers, who still jointly own the property today. Originally, it was a place where merchants and traders could conduct business indoors rather than in crowded streets or shops, marking a revolutionary development in London's commercial landscape.Trials by Fire and Rebirth
The original building was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666. A second Exchange was constructed and opened in 1669 but was also lost to fire in 1838. The current building, designed by Sir William Tite, opened in 1844 and preserved much of the original layout with a trapezoidal floor plan surrounding a large central courtyard. This neoclassical structure features imposing Corinthian columns and pediment sculptures symbolizing commerce. Despite damage during the Blitz of World War II, the building survived and transitioned from a trading floor to a luxury shopping and dining venue by the early 21st century.Architectural Grandeur and Artistic Heritage
The Royal Exchange’s façade is an imposing sight overlooking Bank junction, with its grand portico and Corinthian columns. Inside, the central courtyard is adorned with murals dating from 1892 that depict scenes from London's history, a subtle nod to the building’s rich past. The ornamental cast ironwork and pediment sculptures add to the building’s architectural significance. Notably, a limestone bust of Abraham Lincoln watches over one of the entrances, symbolizing the Exchange’s historical connections beyond Britain.A Modern Luxury Shopping Destination
Today, the Royal Exchange houses high-end boutiques such as Tiffany & Co and Omega, catering primarily to City workers and visitors seeking luxury retail experiences. The ground floor is lined with exclusive shops, while mezzanine levels offer restaurants and dining options. Despite its commercial modernity, the Exchange retains a sense of tradition, balancing its historic legacy with contemporary luxury. Its location amidst the financial district makes it a unique blend of heritage and upscale retail.Legacy and Cultural Significance
The Royal Exchange is not just a shopping centre but a symbol of London’s evolution as a global financial hub. It represents centuries of commercial history, from the Renaissance era through the Industrial Revolution to the present day. The Exchange’s survival through fires, war, and economic shifts underscores its resilience and importance. It remains a landmark that connects London’s past mercantile ambitions with its present-day status as a centre of wealth and commerce.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to the Royal Exchange encounter a blend of historic grandeur and modern elegance. The building’s grand architecture and historical artworks create a refined atmosphere, while the luxury shops and restaurants offer a sophisticated urban experience. The Exchange’s location near Bank station and the Bank of England places it at the heart of London’s financial district, making it both a cultural landmark and a bustling commercial venue.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of James Henry Greathead
0.0 km
Discover the statue honoring James Henry Greathead, the engineer whose invention shaped London's iconic Underground tunnels.
Cornhill Fountain
0.1 km
A historic cast-iron water pump outside the Royal Exchange, symbolizing centuries of London's civic pride and public health innovation.
113 Cannon St
0.3 km
A distinguished Grade II listed classical building in London’s financial district, showcasing early 20th-century architectural elegance.
London Stone (remaining part)
0.3 km
Discover London Stone, the ancient and mysterious limestone relic at 111 Cannon Street, a symbol of London's enduring history and legend.
Lloyd's of London
0.3 km
A high-tech architectural masterpiece blending tradition and innovation in the heart of London’s financial district.
Historic England
0.4 km
Discover the rich tapestry of England's history at Historic England, a key organization dedicated to preserving the nation’s architectural treasures.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
0.4 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
St Michael's Church : Paternoster Royal
0.4 km
Historic Anglican church on College Hill, rebuilt by Wren and linked to Dick Whittington, featuring stunning stained glass and a Hawksmoor spire.
30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin)
0.5 km
A striking, sustainable skyscraper in London’s financial heart, blending innovative design with panoramic city views and historic roots.
30 Saint Mary Axe - Swiss Re
0.5 km
Discover The Gherkin, London’s pioneering eco-friendly skyscraper with its iconic spiraling glass façade and panoramic city views.
St James Garlickhythe
0.5 km
Wren's luminous masterpiece on Garlick Hill, where medieval history meets architectural brilliance and mystery.
Liverpool Street
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant heart of London at Liverpool Street Station, a historic transport hub with modern amenities and access to iconic attractions.
Billingsgate Roman House & Baths
0.6 km
Explore the rich Roman heritage at Billingsgate Roman House & Baths, a fascinating museum revealing ancient life in the heart of London.
Custom House
0.6 km
Historic Custom House on London’s Thames waterfront, a grand 19th-century customs hub echoing centuries of maritime trade and empire.
Bevis Marks Synagogue
0.6 km
Discover Bevis Marks Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the UK, where rich history and stunning architecture meet in the heart of London.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bank of England Museum
0.1 km
Explore over 300 years of British financial history and try lifting a real gold bar at this free, interactive museum in the heart of London’s financial district.
Royal Exchange
0.1 km
London’s historic Royal Exchange: a grand neoclassical hub where centuries of commerce and culture converge in the heart of the financial district.
Threadneedle St & Royal Exchange
0.1 km
Historic crossroads where London’s financial legacy meets neoclassical grandeur and luxury shopping in the heart of the City.
Change Alley
0.1 km
Historic passageway in London’s financial heart, where coffee houses sparked the birth of modern stock trading and commerce.
IMPRINT Church London: St Mary Woolnoth
0.1 km
Historic Anglican church in London’s financial district, blending striking Baroque architecture with rich heritage and vibrant community life.
Threadneedle St
0.1 km
Discover Threadneedle Street, the historic financial artery of London, home to the Bank of England and centuries of economic heritage.
Lombard St
0.1 km
Discover Lombard Street, London’s medieval banking hub where historic signs and financial legacy meet in the heart of the City.
St Michael Cornhill
0.1 km
Discover centuries of history, architecture, and music at St Michael Cornhill, a serene medieval church standing atop Roman London’s ancient basilica.
Mansion House
0.2 km
Explore Mansion House, the grand Palladian residence of the Lord Mayor of London, rich with history, art, and ceremonial splendor.
St Margaret Lothbury
0.2 km
Discover St Margaret Lothbury, a Baroque masterpiece by Christopher Wren nestled in London's financial heart, rich with history and exquisite woodwork.
St Stephen Walbrook
0.2 km
Discover the serene beauty and historic grandeur of St Stephen Walbrook, Wren’s architectural gem with its iconic dome and modern artistic altar.
1 Poultry
0.2 km
A striking postmodern landmark in London’s financial heart, blending bold design, rich history, and panoramic rooftop views.
St Mary Abchurch
0.2 km
Discover the tranquility of St Mary Abchurch, a historic church designed by Sir Christopher Wren in London's financial district, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE
0.3 km
Discover the ancient Roman Temple of Mithras beneath Bloomberg’s headquarters in a captivating blend of archaeology, immersive art, and history in London’s heart.
City of London
0.3 km
Discover the City of London’s unique fusion of ancient history and modern finance in the vibrant Square Mile.
Essential places to dine
14 Hills
0.5 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Madison
0.6 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
La Dame de Pic London
0.8 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
0.8 km
Experience freshly handcrafted Japanese udon and crispy tempura in a lively open kitchen setting at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street, London’s authentic udon destination.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
0.9 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
0.9 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
George
1.1 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
St. John
1.2 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
1.3 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Lyle's
1.4 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Restaurant Story
1.4 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
Sea Containers Restaurant
1.5 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Nest Restaurant Old Street
1.6 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
The Clove Club
1.6 km
Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.
Nomadic community
1.7 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
One New Change
0.6 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
Traders Gate
0.8 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Middlesex Textiles
0.8 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Petticoat Lane Market
0.8 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
Barbican Shop
0.8 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
Tower of London Shop
0.9 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Borough Yards
0.9 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
Hay's Galleria
0.9 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Spitalfields Market
1.0 km
Historic yet vibrant, Spitalfields Market blends East London’s rich heritage with a lively mix of food, art, and shopping all week long.
Commercial St
1.1 km
Historic East London artery blending industrial heritage, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks in the heart of Spitalfields.
Fashion St
1.1 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
Sclater Street Market
1.2 km
Vintage treasures and eclectic finds in the heart of Shoreditch's bohemian marketplace.
Smithfield Market
1.2 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
Bankside Arches Boutique
1.2 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
DPUS Designer Outlet
1.3 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Demon, Wise & Partners
0.2 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
The Bootlegger
0.3 km
Step into The Bootlegger’s hidden Lime Street basement for expertly crafted cocktails, live jazz, and a true 1920s speakeasy vibe in the heart of London.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.3 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
0.6 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
0.6 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
Moonshine Saloon
0.7 km
Step into London’s Moonshine Saloon for an immersive Wild West cocktail adventure with live actors, games, and bespoke drinks made from your own spirits.
Dirty Dicks
0.7 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
The Astronomer, EC1
0.8 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
0.8 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
The Bell
0.9 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Discount Suit Company
0.9 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
Aviary
0.9 km
Elegant rooftop dining with botanical cocktails and panoramic London skyline views in the heart of Finsbury Square.
Flight Club Shoreditch
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant social darts scene with great food, cocktails, and fun at Flight Club Shoreditch in East London.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Old Street
1.0 km
A vibrant and stylish cocktail bar in London’s Old Street area, known for creative drinks and a lively urban atmosphere.
Nine Lives
1.2 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.4 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
XOYO LONDON
1.3 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
The Hoxton Pony
1.4 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
London Best Night Clubs
1.5 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Trafik
1.6 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
Basing House - Shoreditch
1.8 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
E1
1.9 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Ministry of Sound
2.0 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Proud Late
2.2 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Carwash Nightclub
2.3 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
2.3 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
2.3 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
2.3 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Corsica Studios
2.4 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
2.4 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
