Rules: London's Oldest and Most Storied British Restaurant
Step into London's oldest restaurant, Rules, where over two centuries of British culinary tradition and historic charm await in Covent Garden.
Established in 1798, Rules is London's oldest restaurant, famed for its traditional British cuisine and historic charm. Located in Covent Garden, it offers classic game dishes, elegant interiors filled with antiques, and a unique atmosphere that transports diners back to Georgian England. With impeccable service and private dining rooms, Rules remains a cherished institution for those seeking an authentic taste of Britain's culinary heritage.
A brief summary to Rules
- 34-35 Maiden Ln, London, WC2E 7LB, GB
- +442078365314
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Exclusive
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 12 pm-10 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-10 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-10 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-10 pm
Local tips
- Reserve a table in advance, especially for private dining rooms like the Graham Greene or Sir John Betjeman, to ensure availability.
- Try classic game dishes during the season for an authentic Rules experience.
- Be prepared for a steep and narrow staircase to the restrooms, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
- Consider pairing your meal with traditional British wines or a Black Velvet cocktail served in a silver tankard.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Rules location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Rules
A Culinary Legacy Spanning Over Two Centuries
Founded by Thomas Rule in 1798, Rules holds the distinction of being the oldest restaurant in London. Its rich history spans more than 200 years and the reigns of ten British monarchs, making it a living monument to traditional British dining. Over its long existence, the restaurant has been owned by only four families, preserving its unique heritage and commitment to classic British fare. This continuity has allowed Rules to maintain an authentic atmosphere that honors the past while serving contemporary guests.Traditional British Cuisine with a Focus on Game
Rules specializes in classic British dishes, particularly game meats that celebrate the seasons. The menu features staples such as steak and kidney pudding, rib of beef, and Welsh rarebit, all prepared with refined techniques that elevate these traditional recipes. Accompaniments like dauphinoise potatoes and creamed spinach complement the hearty mains. Desserts such as sticky toffee pudding and orchard fruit crumbles provide a quintessentially British finish. The wine list is carefully curated, featuring traditional choices like Rhône reds and dry white Bordeaux, enhancing the dining experience.Atmosphere Steeped in History and Elegance
The interior of Rules is a captivating blend of old-world charm and elegance. Rich burnished wood paneling, classical figurines, and vintage prints adorn the walls, creating a warm and inviting setting reminiscent of an English country estate. The restaurant’s ambiance is enhanced by attentive and knowledgeable staff who contribute to a calm and professional atmosphere. Private dining rooms named after literary figures such as Graham Greene and Sir John Betjeman offer intimate spaces for special occasions and business meetings.A Destination for Tradition and Celebration
Rules is not only a restaurant but a cultural landmark where history and gastronomy intertwine. It has welcomed generations of diners, including notable literary and cultural figures, making it a place rich in stories and tradition. The restaurant’s dedication to preserving British culinary heritage while providing impeccable service makes it a favored venue for celebrations and private events. Despite its historic roots, Rules continues to evolve, maintaining relevance in London’s dynamic dining scene.Challenges and Contemporary Perspectives
While lauded for its historic significance and atmosphere, some critiques note that the food can occasionally be inconsistent, with certain dishes described as bland or underseasoned. The steep and narrow staircase to the restrooms may pose accessibility challenges for some guests. Nonetheless, the overall experience of dining at Rules is often described as unique and memorable, offering a rare glimpse into London’s gastronomic past.Location and Practical Details
Situated in the heart of Covent Garden at 34-35 Maiden Lane, Rules is easily recognizable by its classic façade and bustling location. It operates primarily from noon to late evening, with extended hours on weekends. The restaurant also features a separate bar area and offers a variety of drink options, including traditional British specialties served in silver tankards. Its proximity to other cultural landmarks makes it an ideal stop for visitors exploring London’s West End.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Plaque: David Garrick
0.1 km
Honoring David Garrick, the 18th-century actor and theatre innovator, with a commemorative plaque in London’s historic theatre district.
John Adam St & Adam St
0.2 km
Explore John Adam Street & Adam Street, heart of the Adam brothers’ neoclassical Adelphi development, blending Georgian elegance with modern London vibrancy.
Strand
0.2 km
Historic London thoroughfare linking Westminster and the City, famed for grand hotels, cultural landmarks, and hidden historical treasures.
Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
0.3 km
A sculptural homage to Richard D’Oyly Carte’s theatrical and hospitality legacy, nestled in the serene Victoria Embankment Gardens.
Henry Fawcett Monument
0.3 km
A serene Victorian fountain memorializing Henry Fawcett’s pioneering spirit in social reform and women’s suffrage, nestled in tranquil Embankment Gardens.
Major-General Lord Cheylesmore Monument
0.3 km
A serene stone tribute in Victoria Embankment Gardens honoring Major-General Lord Cheylesmore’s military and civic legacy.
Bow St
0.3 km
Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
St Martin-in-the-Fields Church Path
0.3 km
Georgian masterpiece and spiritual anchor of Trafalgar Square, influencing church architecture worldwide.
Eleanor Cross
0.3 km
A Victorian Gothic Revival monument marking the final resting place of Queen Eleanor’s funeral procession, blending medieval legacy with London’s historic heart.
Agatha Christie memorial
0.3 km
A captivating bronze tribute to Agatha Christie, celebrating her literary genius and theatrical legacy in London's vibrant theatre district.
Cleopatra's Needle
0.3 km
An ancient Egyptian obelisk on London's Thames Embankment, bridging millennia of history and mystery in the heart of the city.
Victoria Embankment
0.4 km
Experience the tranquility of Victoria Embankment in London, a beautiful riverside promenade perfect for leisurely strolls and iconic views.
Embankment station
0.4 km
Discover the charm of Embankment Station, a historic gateway to London's iconic landmarks along the River Thames, blending Victorian elegance with modern transport.
Grand Building
0.4 km
A Victorian cultural landmark on London's most historic street, blending centuries of heritage with vibrant contemporary experiences.
Historic Seven Dials
0.4 km
Discover Seven Dials, a historic London quarter where seven streets meet at a unique sundial pillar, blending rich heritage with vibrant culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Vaudeville Theatre
0.1 km
Historic West End theatre with intimate seating, acclaimed productions, and a prime Strand location near London’s cultural landmarks.
Adelphi Theatre
0.1 km
Experience world-class musicals and rich theatrical history in the elegant Art Deco setting of London’s Adelphi Theatre on the iconic Strand.
St Paul’s Church Covent Garden
0.1 km
Experience the tranquility of St Paul’s Church in Covent Garden, a historical sanctuary for the arts in the heart of London.
Covent Garden, street shows
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant legacy of Covent Garden’s world-famous street performers, bringing daily magic and artistry to London’s historic piazza.
Punch & Judy
0.1 km
Historic Covent Garden pub named after iconic puppet shows, blending lively atmosphere, traditional fare, and vibrant street views.
Covent Garden
0.1 km
Discover Covent Garden’s lively markets, iconic theatres, vibrant street performances, and charming hidden courtyards in the heart of London’s West End.
Jubilee Market
0.1 km
Historic Covent Garden market with antiques, crafts, and vibrant food stalls in a lively, iconic London setting.
Music at Covent Garden
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant live music and rich cultural heritage at Covent Garden, London's iconic West End soundscape.
Floral Street
0.1 km
Discover Floral Street’s vibrant, sustainable floral fragrances in London’s stylish Covent Garden flagship store.
London Transport Museum
0.2 km
Explore over 200 years of London’s transport history through iconic vehicles, interactive exhibits, and hidden underground tours in Covent Garden.
Savoy Theatre
0.2 km
Historic West End theatre famed for Gilbert and Sullivan premieres, blending Victorian roots with stunning Art Deco elegance.
Goodwin’s Court
0.2 km
Step into Goodwin’s Court, a hidden Georgian alley in Covent Garden where history, mystery, and cinematic magic blend in timeless charm.
London Film Museum
0.2 km
Explore the largest official collection of original James Bond vehicles in London’s vibrant Covent Garden hub.
Lyceum Theatre
0.2 km
Experience world-class West End theatre in the historic Lyceum Theatre, home to The Lion King and a jewel of London’s cultural scene.
Royal Ballet and Opera
0.2 km
Experience world-class ballet and opera in the historic and stunning Royal Opera House at London’s vibrant Covent Garden.
Essential places to dine
Rules
0.0 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.1 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.1 km
Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.1 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Chez Antoinette
0.1 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.1 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Clos Maggiore
0.1 km
Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
Balthazar
0.2 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
0.2 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Inamo Covent Garden
0.3 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
J Sheekey
0.3 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
0.3 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
0.4 km
Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
Sarastro
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Circus
0.4 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.1 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
The Moomin Shop London
0.1 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.2 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
0.2 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.3 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
0.3 km
Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
Gifts of London
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Urban Outfitters
0.4 km
Dive into Urban Outfitters' warehouse wonderland in Seven Dials, where eclectic fashion, cult beauty, and quirky homewares fuel London's youth culture vibe.
Rokit Covent Garden
0.4 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
Unique Britain
0.4 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Good
0.4 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
Henry Pordes Books Ltd
0.4 km
London's legendary independent rare bookshop preserving literary treasures on historic Charing Cross Road.
House of Spells
0.4 km
Step into a world of magic and fandom at House of Spells, London’s enchanting emporium for Harry Potter and fantasy collectibles.
Charing Cross Rd
0.4 km
Charing Cross Road: London’s iconic street for book lovers, theatres, and vibrant urban culture in the heart of the West End.
Pop Boutique
0.4 km
Discover authentic vintage fashion treasures from the 50s to 90s in a colorful, retro boutique at London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Upstairs At Rules
0.0 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
Mrs Riot
0.0 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.1 km
Stylish Covent Garden wine bar serving shareable plates, extensive wines, and cocktails in a lively West End setting—ideal for pre-theatre drinks or group gatherings.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
0.1 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.1 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
0.1 km
Dive into Blame Gloria’s neon-lit retro cocktail haven in Covent Garden, where legendary rock vibes and wild themed brunches electrify your night.
Crusting Pipe
0.1 km
Covent Garden wine bar pouring Davy’s finest ports amid live music, British classics and cosy nooks—perfect for pre-theatre indulgence or market rendezvous.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
0.2 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
Beaufort Bar
0.2 km
Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
American Bar
0.2 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.2 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
0.2 km
Shake up your night in Covent Garden with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclasses in a historic spot pulsing with theater-district energy.
Blind Spot London
0.2 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
Plume Wine Bar
0.2 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
Mr Fogg's Tavern
0.3 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.3 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
Heaven
0.3 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Proud Late
0.4 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.4 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
The Ivy Club
0.4 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
The Roxy
0.4 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.5 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
The Penthouse London
0.5 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Carwash Nightclub
0.6 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
TSQ Club
0.6 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Club49Soho
0.6 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
Luxe Club
0.7 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Tiger Tiger London
0.7 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
La Capannina Club
0.7 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.7 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Senior Friendly
