Building Housing Londons Oldest Restaurant Donated to National Trust Conservation Charity

The building housing Rules, London's oldest restaurant, has been donated to Europe's largest conservation charity, WIVB News 4 reported. The decision aims to secure the landmark eatery's future for centuries to come. [1]

As HEROIC BREAKING NEWS reported earlier, Rules owner J-P Mayhew donated the 11 million pound freehold of 34-35 Maiden Lane in Covent Garden to the National Trust. The donation also includes historic items such as visitor books, menus, caricatures, and stained glass. [4]

The restaurant was established in 1798 by Thomas Rule as an oyster bar during the aftermath of the French Revolution, according to WIVB News 4. Over the centuries, its menu expanded to traditional British fare, welcoming notable guests such as Charles Dickens. [1]

Rules has demonstrated historical resilience by surviving the British Empire, wartime bombing during the Blitz, and past demolition proposals for new road layouts, WIVB News 4 reported. The transfer to conservation ownership guarantees the continued protection of the cultural institution. [1][3]