About This Pub
You know, when I think about The Exchange Bar, it's got this lovely mix of old-school vibes and modern fun that just draws you in – it's set in a stunning building that was once a corn exchange, with exposed brick and wooden beams that give it real character. From the reviews, it sounds like a top spot for grabbing a craft cocktail or catching some live music, and folks really rave about the cosy nooks and outdoor area for a chilled afternoon. It's got a solid 4.4 rating overall, which makes sense with all the positive buzz about the atmosphere and events – I can imagine it being a great place to pop in for a laugh with mates or to soak up that community spirit. On the downside, there was that one gripe about a drink not being made properly, which is a shame as it could put a dampener on things if you're expecting the classics. Still, it's worth checking out if you're in the area; just keep your expectations in check and maybe go for something simple to avoid any surprises. All in all, it's a welcoming spot that bridges the past and present, but like any place, it's not perfect – a balanced choice for a night out in Leicester.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The historical charm and cosy atmosphere really make it feel like a welcoming spot for a relaxed catch-up with friends.
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Outdoor seating is brilliant for enjoying a drink while people-watching on a sunny day in Leicester's Cultural Quarter.
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They've got a great vibe with live music and events, keeping things lively and full of creative energy.
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Comfortable seating and retro furniture add a nice touch, making it perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Cons
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Some drinks might not live up to expectations, like that margarita that got mixed up with the wrong ingredients – a bit disappointing if you're after something specific.
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It can be quieter than you'd hope, even on a Saturday night, so it might not always feel buzzing.
Contact Information
50 Rutland St, Leicester LE1 1RD
+441163323301
Bar
Open Now
Opening Hours
| Monday | 10:00 - 23:30 |
| Tuesday (Today) | 10:00 - 23:30 |
| Wednesday | 10:00 - 23:30 |
| Thursday | 10:00 - 23:30 |
| Friday | 10:00 - 01:00 |
| Saturday | 12:00 - 01:00 |
| Sunday | 12:00 - 21:00 |
Recent Reviews
Came here for a couple of cheeky daytime drinks...The outdoor seating is awesome for people-watching! Will definitely be back the next time I'm visiting Lesta!
Used to be good but I didn't appreciate ordering a margarita and overhearing the waiters say there was no triple sec, but just use a peach liqueur because they'll "get away with it." I agreed to have the drink they made me that was definitely not a margarita and it was ok (really, just ok. Don't add it to a menu any time soon!) but I just don't think that's a great attitude and it doesn't impress me as a cocktail bar. They should have been up front with me.
WOW the atmosphere in here was great. pretty quiet for a Saturday night but the music was great and we could've stayed there all night. very cosy seating and lovely decor.
I don't really go out in Leicester and I am glad that I let myself be talked into it. It was not all nighter or a big drinking session, just a couple of glasses of wine and let's reminisce and change the world type of conversation.
And the Exchange perfectly suited this as a venue.
Being next to the Curve and near some pedestrianised area it is rather quiet - or was on the Thursday evening when we were there.
There is a decent selection of wines, beers and spirits. And not necessarily too expensive either.
The street level seating is great, you can see through the windows onto both sides of the building but there is also a huge (well it was a bit dark and hard to see) basement seating area as well.
A great place to relax and have something to drink as well as get some very nice Food!! There are some very comfortable Chairs which includes Retro Furniture, it's also a Great Place to destress after Work and also a Great Place to get Food and a Drink before Visiting the Curve Theatre as it's literally a few meters away from the Doors of the Curve Theatre, and The Exchange sits directly in the Center of Leicesters Newly Created Qualtural Quarter, which is an absolutely Amazing place to Visit and another Great Tourist Attraction for anyone wanting to visit Leicester!!
SF
Scott Freiherr von Memerty-Thomas
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