Royal Exchange

Royal Exchange which includes an administrative building, a city and street scenes
Royal Exchange
Royal Exchange
Royal Exchange


Browse upmarket boutiques and dine in upscale restaurants in this grandiose building, which once functioned as a centre of trade.

The Royal Exchange is a majestic 19th-century building that served as the city’s centre of commerce. Offices, boutiques and restaurants now occupy the imposing neoclassical structure, which has a portico of eight Corinthian columns and a pediment. Consider the historical importance of this site to the country’s economy as you peruse the luxury shops.

The current building is the Royal Exchange’s third incarnation since it was first opened in 1571. Wealthy merchant Sir Thomas Gresham initially founded the institution as a centre for trading stocks. Hear how the first two buildings burned down, before the current one was built in the 1840s. In 2001, the site was transformed into the upscale restaurant and retail centre.

Take photos of the elegant façade, with the equestrian statue of the first Duke of Wellington outside it. Inspect the intriguing sculpture of Paul Julius Reuter, the founder of his namesake news agency.

Enjoy a meal at the Grand Café, a restaurant located in the centre of an attractive internal courtyard. Overlooking it from the balcony is the Sauterelle restaurant. Consider dining at the Gallery or the Threadneedle Bar, which line the arched flanks of the courtyard. Descend to the stunning arched-vault basement for the Imperial City restaurant.

Buy beauty products, jewellery and art in the many boutiques here. High-end brands such as Bvlgari, Hermés, Montblanc and Tiffany & Co. occupy this extravagant shopping centre.

Get a hand massage and other pampering services. Purchase personalized gifts with your name or corporation embossed on the material. Attend an event, such as the launch of a brand’s latest fragrance, etiquette and décor workshops and pop-up shops.

Note that the opening hours of the restaurants and shops vary. Most boutiques open from Monday to Friday between morning and early evening.

Ride the Tube to Bank, Cannon Street or Liverpool Street stations to reach the Royal Exchange. This shopping and dining destination is adjacent to the Bank of England and Mansion House in the City of London, the capital’s financial hub.

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Things to do near Royal Exchange

When visiting the Royal Exchange, indulge in a variety of activities, from exploring its stunning architecture to enjoying a spot of shopping in luxury boutiques. Don't miss the chance to experience the vibrant theatre scene nearby, as well as the captivating art exhibitions that often grace the area. The Royal Exchange offers a delightful blend of culture, retail, and entertainment for an unforgettable day out in the heart of London.

Shopping

Experience vibrant shopping at Borough Market, a bustling public market just 373m from Royal Exchange, offering a variety of local delicacies. For a family-friendly outing, head to Brunswick Centre, a shopping mall 1.2km away, featuring shops and entertainment options.

Recreation

At the O2 Arena, enjoy energetic events that invigorate the spirit, while the ABBA Arena offers a vibrant atmosphere for music lovers seeking entertainment. For a tranquil retreat, Hampstead Heath provides serene landscapes perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation, just a short distance from the Royal Exchange.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the IFS Cloud Royal Docks Station cable car for stunning views over London, only 3.1km from Royal Exchange. For climbing enthusiasts, Vertical Chill offers an exhilarating climbing experience just 621m away, while the Oasis Go-Kart Track, 1.9km distant, promises adrenaline-fuelled racing fun.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Royal Exchange is vibrant and diverse. Enjoy breathtaking views on the London Eye, indulge in cultural performances at the Barbican Arts Centre, or have a fun-filled evening at All Star Lanes for arcade adventures, all within a short distance from your location.

Find the best attractions near Royal Exchange

When visiting the Royal Exchange in London, you'll find a captivating mix of attractions, including charming streets, historic churches, and vibrant piazzas. Ideal for culture enthusiasts and families alike, this area offers various experiences. Don't miss the Royal Exchange Theatre and explore nearby motels for your stay. The Royal Exchange building itself is a must-see, making this locale perfect for a memorable London adventure.

  • Tower Bridge: Marvel at the stunning Victorian architecture of Tower Bridge, an iconic symbol of London. Walk across the glass-floored walkway for a unique view of the Thames below and enjoy the surrounding cultural vibes.
  • Big Ben: Experience the grandeur of Big Ben, an emblematic clock tower that dominates the London skyline. Its rich history and cultural significance make it a must-see, with the nearby Houses of Parliament adding to the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
  • Tower of London: Explore the historic Tower of London, a fascinating castle steeped in intrigue and romance. Discover the Crown Jewels and hear captivating tales of its past, all within a short stroll from Royal Exchange.

Best time to go to Royal Exchange

The best time to visit Royal Exchange is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February41.7°F (5.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March45.0°F (7.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April49.5°F (9.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
May55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
June61.0°F (16.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
September60.4°F (15.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
November47.1°F (8.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Royal Exchange

To save money during your visit to the Royal Exchange, consider travelling between January and March when hotel prices are lower. Book your accommodation about a month in advance, or explore last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Sundays typically offer the best rates, while Wednesdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia's search tool to compare room rates and package deals that combine hotels with flights and activities. Additionally, London’s public transport is budget-friendly; make use of buses or consider walking to explore the area easily.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Royal Exchange are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Royal Exchange is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Royal Exchange is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Royal Exchange is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise the search tool on Expedia to refine your selections based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your Royal Exchange hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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