£11m site of London’s oldest restaurant given to the National Trust

Rules, the oldest restaurant in London, has been donated to the National Trust to secure its future. Located at 34-35 Maiden Lane in Covent Garden, the £11m site has been home to the institution since 1798. Having changed hands only three times in 228 years, the historic eatery has outlasted nine monarchs and 45 prime ministers. This bequest ensures the building, where kings and politicians once gathered, remains a permanent part of the city's cultural life.