London's Oldest Restaurant Building Donated to Conservation Charity
The historic structure housing Rules, established in 1798, has been gifted to the National Trust to ensure its preservation for future generations.
The building that houses London's oldest restaurant, Rules, has been donated to the National Trust, Europe's largest conservation charity. This move aims to secure the future of the historic eatery, established in 1798 as an oyster bar by Thomas Rule.
Rules has witnessed significant historical events, including the aftermath of the French Revolution, the rise and fall of the British Empire, and the Blitz. Over the decades, it has hosted notable figures such as Charles Dickens, Charlie Chaplin, Madonna, and King Edward VII. The restaurant's menu evolved to include traditional British fare.
J-P Mayhew, the building's owner for the past four decades, donated 34-35 Maiden Lane in Covent Garden to the National Trust. This donation is valued at 11 million pounds ($14 million) and includes not only the building but also historical items like visitor books, menus, caricatures, and photographs. The annual rent from the ongoing restaurant business will contribute to the charity's conservation efforts.
Hilary McGrady, director-general of the National Trust, described the property as a "rare example of living heritage," where the historic structure and its original purpose as a restaurant remain intact. She noted that the building has "defied the odds to be standing here today, doors still open and treacle sponge still on the menu."
The interior of the restaurant evokes a past era of London, with plush and colorful decor. The menu features classic English dishes, including steak and kidney pies, guinea fowl, and traditional desserts. The building includes rooms named after literary figures like poet John Betjeman, who once defended the restaurant against demolition plans, and writer Graham Greene, a loyal patron who featured the restaurant in his novel "The End Of The Affair."
Ricky McMenemy, the restaurant's proprietor for 35 years, will continue operating Rules as a commercial tenant under the National Trust. He expressed confidence that the Trust's stewardship will ensure the restaurant's security and preservation for at least another two centuries.