One of our absolute favourite places in London – scratch that, the world! – is The Royal Exchange.With striking and stunning architecture that hits you as soon as you exit Bank Station, it’s one of London’s landmark shopping destinations.
It first opened for business on 23rd January, 1571 as Britain’s first dedicated commercial business, although with a very different design. Fast forward past two fires, two rebuilds, and residencies from Lloyd’s and Reuters, and the Exchange is back to doing what it was originally intended for… with a caveat.
That caveat being that The Royal Exchange was a shopping destination – on weekdays only! But now that’s changed, as they’re officially a weekend destination as the equally legendary Fortnum & Masons are opening their doors on Saturdays.
As we’re always looking for literally *any* excuse to visit, we did just that.
Fortnum & Masons
The headline news is that Fortnum’s is now open on Saturdays from 10am–6pm. That means all those special gifts like teas and chocolates are ready and waiting, as if you ever find yourself looking for something to impress, this is the place.
Our particular favourite is the exclusive Royal Exchange blend of tea they offer, which says “I care, but I also had a nice day out”. On Saturdays, they only serve their all-day dining menu, but trust us, that's not a problem at all when you get to experience it.
Engel
Engel is great if you’re looking for a classy experience to match the Exchange’s historic facade. For mornings, they’ve got their Saturday brunch, with beautiful savoury and sweet treats for any palette.
If you’re visiting throughout the day, you can enjoy a lovely coffee and people-watch from above. If you’re coming in the evening, that means you truly get to enjoy their adventurous options, including the viral paint-your-own cocktails!
Credit: Eleonora Boscarelli
The Libertine
Now let me tell you – this is definitely one of our top picks for a post-work pint! Hidden underneath the Exchange is this lovely bar for both dining and drinking.
They’ve got warm, low light for a friendly atmosphere, along with private dining areas and a special whisky vault for clandestine meetings. But we’re here to talk weekends, and it just so happens The Libertine has a well-regarded and surprisingly affordable Sunday Roast every weekend – a must try.
Now, of course, you also have the beautiful facade, the boutiques and – as we’re writing this in May – gorgeously colourful flowers blooming outside.
So the next time you’re looking for last-minute gift shopping or have friends and family visiting for the weekend… You know exactly where to go!