Royal Exchange

The Royal Exchange, former London stock exchange

The London audio-guided tour has you discover the Royal Exchange, a fine building with eight Corinthian columns that once housed the commodity exchange. Its appearance of an ancient temple makes it one of the most elegant buildings of the City.

A high place of commerce since 1571

The present building, built in 1840 in a neoclassical style, replaces an edifice that occupied the site from 1571 and served as a centre for the trade of shares. A victim of several fires, the old exchange gave way to this new building. Since 2001, the Royal Exchange has changed its vocation: it now houses high-end shops and restaurants, in a prestigious setting.

What there is to see

The façade with Corinthian columns and its sculpted pediment impress with their majesty. Inside, the former exchange courtyard, covered with a glass roof, today hosts luxury shops in a refined decor. In front of the entrance stand monuments and statues that recall the commercial and military history of London. It is an elegant stop in the heart of the City.

Practical information

The Royal Exchange is in the heart of the City of London, facing the Bank of England. The façade can be contemplated freely from the square; the shops and restaurants inside follow their own opening hours.

When was the present Royal Exchange built?

In 1840, in a neoclassical style, replacing a building present since 1571 and destroyed by fires.

What does the Royal Exchange house today?

Since 2001, high-end shops and restaurants, in the former exchange courtyard covered with a glass roof.