TAKING LIBERTIES

The cat’s out of the bag – award-winning restaurateurs Incipio Group will be launching a brand-new bar and restaurant concept in the vaults of The Royal Exchange later this year. The Libertine will take over the vast basement level of The Royal Exchange, with plenty to look forward to in the form of food, drink and entertainment. Incipio specialises in taking unique locations and transforming them into exceptional venues, so we caught up with the company’s head of creative development, Rory Graham, to discover more of what we can expect. Visit this month’s Conversation With to discover what he had to say and stay tuned for more details coming soon.

SEEING RED

Red Eight Gallery may be one of the newer residents at The Royal Exchange, but things are going from strength to strength for the contemporary gallery with news that it is expanding into a neighbouring plot this summer. The larger gallery space will open on Thursday 25 August, with a suitably grand launch party and brand-new exhibition – Banking on Banksy – to celebrate. You can reserve your spot for the event here but be quick – spaces are limited.

 
ON THE CASE

Can you believe that there’s another new arrival on the horizon at The Royal Exchange? A brand-new branch of premium luggage and accessories brand TUMI will open on Tuesday 9 August. Originally established in 1975, TUMI describes itself as a travel lifestyle brand for “achievement-minded people on the move”. The new store at The Royal Exchange will stock a selection of classic and new-season cases and accessories, as well as offering handy personalisation services such as embroidering and monogramming on the dedicated first-floor customisation area. Visit TUMI at The Royal Exchange for more info

BESIDE THE SEASIDE

British accessories brand Aspinal of London is clinging onto these last halcyon days of summer with the nostalgia-drenched Riviera collection. This cute and colourful new range is inspired by retro artwork depicting Britain’s most famous beaches. Think striped deck chairs and “kiss me quick” kitsch. It includes stylish new bags and accessories for both men and women. Discover more at Aspinal of London at The Royal Exchange

THROUGH THE GRAPEVINE

Join Fortnum & Mason at The Royal Exchange on Thursday 4 August for an evening of world-class wines from the F&M cellars. This exclusive tasting event celebrates the diversity of wine with a variety of styles ranging from fresh rosés, surprising whites, elegant reds and festive sparkling wines. These delightful drops will also be paired with a selection of Fortnum’s food for the ultimate evening of indulgence. The event takes place at Fortnum & Mason at The Royal Exchange on Thursday 4 August at 7pm. Tickets cost £40 per person and can be purchased here