The Great Escape

If you're looking for a place with a relaxed atmosphere and a touch of English charm, The Great Escape is an excellent choice. This popular bar, a highlight of Lausanne, has long been a legendary spot among the establishments Switzerland is famous for. Since 2003, it has been bringing students, tourists, and locals together under the roof of its cozy, rustic-style pub.

The Great Escape. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The main feature of The Great Escape is its independence: as a free house, the venue offers an impressive selection of craft and international draught beers, including the famous London Pride and high-quality IPAs. The interior, with its industrial design elements and plenty of wood, creates a warm and welcoming environment where it’s just as pleasant to spend a quiet evening as it is to be in the heart of a lively celebration.

The bar takes particular pride in its spacious outdoor terrace. In the warmer months, it transforms into a bustling open-air venue where guests enjoy drinks and socializing. Located on Rue de la Madeleine, the bar is the perfect place for those who want to feel the true rhythm of Lausanne's city life.

For more details on upcoming broadcasts or to book a table (recommended for large groups), you can use the following contact information:

The main draw for visitors to The Great Escape is undoubtedly the sports broadcasts. The venue is equipped with large screens showing key matches of the English Premier League, top European football championships, and major rugby games. During large tournaments, screens are even set up on the terrace, creating a stadium-like atmosphere right in the city center.

Beyond the entertainment, the local cuisine is well worth your attention. The menu is famous for its juicy burgers, made from premium Swiss beef sourced from the city's best butchers. Guests can also enjoy delicious chicken wings, nuggets, and fresh salads, making the bar a great spot for a full dinner with friends.

Socializing is an equally important "activity" here. The Great Escape has such a friendly environment that making new acquaintances happens naturally. People often share tables during popular matches, sharing their excitement and discussing the game. It’s an ideal place to unwind after work or study, enjoying quality drinks and truly lively conversation.

Finding The Great Escape is quite simple, as it is located in the very heart of Lausanne. The bar is situated at Rue de la Madeleine 18. Place Riponne serves as a useful landmark—the establishment is located halfway up the stairs leading from this square, making it a convenient stop during a stroll through the Old Town.

If you prefer public transport, the most convenient option is the M2 metro line. Additionally, bus No. 16 stops in the immediate vicinity. From the central station or the nearest metro stops, the bar is just a few minutes' walk away.

For those traveling by taxi, simply give the driver the address or the name of the bar—it is well-known in the city. Thanks to its central location, a trip from any part of downtown Lausanne will take very little time.

The Great Escape began its story in 2003. Since its opening, the venue has aimed to create a space where everyone feels at home. Over two decades, the bar has evolved from a simple English pub into a true cultural hub in Lausanne, bringing together people of all professions and ages.

A notable fact is that this establishment was the first free house (independent bar) in the city. Its independent status allowed the owners to curate their own selection of drinks without being restricted by contracts with specific breweries. This gave them the freedom to offer guests truly exclusive and rare craft beers.

The pub's interior is designed in a rustic style with industrial elements, creating a lived-in and cozy feel. Over the years, The Great Escape has earned a reputation for impeccable hospitality, where the staff doesn't just do their job but actively fosters the friendly atmosphere for which the bar is so highly valued by both expats and locals.

When planning a visit to The Great Escape, consider how you want to spend your time. If your goal is just to stop by for a glass of craft beer and a quick bite, 1–1.5 hours will be quite enough to appreciate the local hospitality.

However, if you plan to catch a broadcast of an important football or rugby match, it is recommended to set aside at least 2.5–3 hours. During major sporting events, the atmosphere builds up in the best sense of the word, and you'll likely want to stay longer to enjoy the excitement with fellow fans and have a full dinner of their signature burgers.

The venue is open to guests daily, offering both daytime relaxation and lively night-time gatherings. The standard operating hours are as follows:

• Monday — Thursday: 11:00 – 01:00
• Friday — Saturday: 11:00 – 02:00
• Sunday: 12:00 – 01:00

Keep in mind that on days of particularly significant sporting events, the bar may open its doors earlier to allow fans to grab the best seats in front of the screens.

Its central location makes The Great Escape an ideal starting point or a perfect final chord for a walk through historical sites. Exploring the surroundings will help you better feel the spirit of the city and combine culinary experiences with cultural ones.

Below are interesting sites located within walking distance of the bar: