Royal Exchange London
A historic 1844 trading center now housing luxury boutiques, fine dining, and an iconic afternoon tea.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere
Royal Exchange London
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1844 trading center now housing luxury boutiques, fine dining, and an iconic afternoon tea.
"Step into a world of grandeur and luxury at the Royal Exchange, a historic gem in London's financial heart."
🎯 Book Afternoon Tea Early
Secure your spot for the popular Fortnum & Mason afternoon tea by booking in advance.
⌚ Watch Shopping Hub
Find reputable watch retailers like Watchfinder & Co. located conveniently in Royal Exchange Square.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fortnum & Mason's Afternoon Tea
Fortnum & Mason
Indulge in a classic afternoon tea experience with finger sandwiches, scones, and exquisite cakes.
Luxury Shopping Boutiques
Various Boutiques
Explore high-end fashion, jewelry, and watch retailers within this magnificent 1844 trading hall.
Architectural Grandeur
The Building Itself
Admire the impressive Pantheon-style facade and the historic trading floor, a testament to Victorian commerce.
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to the Royal Exchange
Navigating the Royal Exchange
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Afternoon Tea Early
Secure your spot for the popular Fortnum & Mason afternoon tea by booking in advance.
⌚ Watch Shopping Hub
Find reputable watch retailers like Watchfinder & Co. located conveniently in Royal Exchange Square.
📸 Capture the Architecture
Don't miss the stunning columned facade and the grand interior for memorable photos.
🏛️ Explore the History
Learn about its past as London's first dedicated commerce center, modeled on Antwerp's bourse.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Afternoon Tea Early
Secure your spot for the popular Fortnum & Mason afternoon tea by booking in advance.
⌚ Watch Shopping Hub
Find reputable watch retailers like Watchfinder & Co. located conveniently in Royal Exchange Square.
📸 Capture the Architecture
Don't miss the stunning columned facade and the grand interior for memorable photos.
🏛️ Explore the History
Learn about its past as London's first dedicated commerce center, modeled on Antwerp's bourse.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Royal Exchange for its stunning architecture and historical significance, often highlighting the luxurious shopping and dining experiences, especially Fortnum & Mason's afternoon tea. Some find it a bit exclusive, but most appreciate its grandeur and central location.
"Royal Exchange London:
Location
Nestled at Bank junction in the City of London, the Royal Exchange occupies a trapezoidal site bounded by Cornhill and Threadneedle Street .
Its historical role as a nexus of commerce and banking placed it at the centre of London’s financial heartbeat.
Founded in 1571 by merchant Sir Thomas
Events & Ceremonial Role
Not just a commercial site, it holds ceremonial significance, and has long been one of the traditional spots for official royal proclamations—including dissolution of Parliament and announcing a new monarch—delivered by a herald from its steps .
Most recently, it featured in the 2022 proclamation of the new Sovereign, continuing its centuries-old public ceremonial tradition .
Plenty of shopping:
Shops & Dining
Royal Exchange has transformed into a luxury shopping and dining destination, harmonizing historical grandeur with contemporary lifestyle .
Notable Shops:
Fortnum & Mason: A famed British institution offering gourmet goods and its elegant Bar & Restaurant set in the courtyard .
SageBrown: Known for high-quality leather goods—handbags, briefcases, travel accessories—with lifetime service guarantee .
Pretty Ballerinas: Boutique specialising in ballet flats, sandals, sneakers, accessories, with styles for adults and children .
Tateossian: Contemporary jewellery—cufflinks, leather bracelets—even offered unusual materials like meteorites and fossils .
Smythson, Aspinal of London, Georg Jensen, Jo Malone, Sirplus, and the Red Eight Gallery are other notable luxury and lifestyle retailers present .
Dining & Refreshments: A vibrant array of food and drink options includes the best French Martini.
Absolutely beautiful building and a lovely spot for a bite to eat , with a cocktails and why not browse the shops . I've done many events here and its such a wonderful venue"
Nicholas Martin
"Beautiful Stock Exchange Building renovated as a luxury mall
This is a great place to come and admire how you can re-invent and re-purpose sites. The Old Stock Exchange is now home to some iconic UK & International brands, like Fortnum & Mason, LV, etc. This is obviously a high class place but really nice to visit."
Paul Vivas
"What a building! The royal exchange is a beautiful historic building that has a combination of all wonderful shops/restaurants inside. It is pure elegance inside and you are left breathless. From jewellery shops including Tiffany and Co to the Fortnum and Mason restaurant it truely is a pleasure visiting here. A must if you’re in London."
emily
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Royal Exchange is easily accessible via the London Underground. The nearest station is Bank, served by the Central, Northern, Waterloo & City lines, and the DLR. Several bus routes also stop nearby.
Parking in the City of London can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport. If driving is necessary, look for NCP car parks in the vicinity, though they are often costly.
Yes, the Royal Exchange is centrally located in the City of London. It's a pleasant walk from St. Paul's Cathedral, the Tower of London, and the Monument.
For a stress-free shopping trip, the Tube to Bank station is ideal. It drops you right at the doorstep of the Royal Exchange and surrounding luxury stores.
Bank station has step-free access, making it accessible for most visitors. The Royal Exchange itself is generally accessible, with ramps and lifts available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Royal Exchange building itself is free. You only need to purchase items or services if you choose to dine, shop, or experience afternoon tea.
Opening hours vary for the boutiques and restaurants within the Royal Exchange. Generally, shops are open Monday to Saturday, with some Sunday hours. Restaurants have their own specific hours. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
No, there is no admission fee to enter and explore the stunning architecture of the Royal Exchange.
While there aren't always formal public tours, you can learn about its history through informational plaques and by exploring the building's design. Guided historical walks often include the Royal Exchange.
The Royal Exchange occasionally hosts events and exhibitions. Check their official website or social media for announcements regarding any upcoming happenings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can indulge in luxury shopping, enjoy world-class dining and afternoon tea, admire the stunning architecture, and learn about its historical significance as a trading hub.
While it's a high-end destination, families can appreciate the architecture and perhaps enjoy a treat. However, it's primarily geared towards adults interested in luxury shopping and dining.
The Royal Exchange houses a curated selection of luxury brands, including high-end jewelry, watches, fashion, and accessories.
Absolutely! The building itself is a historical landmark, designed by Sir Thomas Gresham. Look for details that reflect its past as a center for merchants and traders.
Capture the grandeur of the exterior columned facade and the intricate details of the interior courtyard. Early morning or late afternoon light can be particularly beautiful.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Royal Exchange offers a range of dining experiences, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants and the renowned Fortnum & Mason for afternoon tea.
Yes, Fortnum & Mason at the Royal Exchange offers a delightful afternoon tea experience, complete with traditional treats and a selection of teas. Booking is recommended.
Most restaurants in the Royal Exchange are accustomed to catering to various dietary needs. It's advisable to check menus online or inform your server upon arrival for vegetarian, vegan, or other specific requirements.
Dining prices can vary significantly, from mid-range cafe options to high-end restaurant experiences. Afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason is a set price, typically in the mid-to-high range.
Yes, there are cafes and some restaurants that offer lighter fare or quicker meal options if you're looking for a brief respite during your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed inside the Royal Exchange. However, professional photography or commercial shoots may require prior permission.
The grand courtyard with its dome, the intricate facade with its columns, and the elegant interiors of the boutiques and restaurants offer excellent photo opportunities.
While you can take photos of the building's architecture, it's best to ask permission from individual shop staff before photographing specific luxury items for sale.
Early mornings or late afternoons can provide softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing your photographic experience. The interior can be well-lit at any time.
Drone photography is strictly prohibited in central London, especially around historic buildings and busy public areas like the Royal Exchange, due to safety and privacy regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💍 Couples and Special Occasions
💼 Business Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Royal Exchange
Walking through its halls, you can almost hear the echoes of bustling trade and important negotiations. The architecture itself tells a story of wealth, ambition, and the evolution of commerce. From its origins as a place for brokers and merchants to its current role as a luxury destination, the Royal Exchange has consistently been a focal point of London's economic and social life.
Luxury Shopping and Dining Experiences
Beyond shopping, the Royal Exchange is a culinary hotspot. Fortnum & Mason, the iconic British retailer, offers a celebrated afternoon tea experience within its walls, complete with delicate sandwiches, warm scones, and a vast selection of teas. Several other restaurants and bars provide diverse gastronomic options, ranging from sophisticated dining to more casual yet elegant settings, ensuring a memorable experience for every palate.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit