India, Oct. 15 -- London's oldest restaurant, Rules, has entered a new chapter after the historic building that houses it was donated to the National Trust. Established in 1798, the Covent Garden institution has served generations of diners through wars, changing tastes and redevelopment threats.

Founded by Thomas Rule as an oyster house in 1798, in the aftermath of the French Revolution, Rules has witnessed more than two centuries of British history. Its menu developed to include traditional British dishes, while its dining rooms became a meeting place for writers, actors, politicians and members of the royal family, according to the National Trust.

The restaurant has welcomed notable figures including Charles Dickens, Charlie Chaplin,...