Tucked down Maiden Lane, a stone's throw from Covent Garden's piazza, Rules holds the title of London's oldest restaurant. Founded in 1798 by Thomas Rule, it has served through the Georgian era, two world wars and every culinary fad since, and it is now enjoying fresh attention thanks to coverage from the team at Secret London.

What makes Rules worth a detour is that it never really changed its job description. This is the definitive home of British game: grouse, pheasant, venison, wild duck, and the famous oysters and native oyster platters, all served in a room that looks like it was dressed for a Dickens adaptation. Red velvet banquettes, dark wood, gilt frames and photographs of the famous faces who have dined there over two centuries give it the feel of a private club that happens to take walk-in curiosity.

The restaurant's literary and theatrical pedigree is part of the appeal. Charles Dickens was a regular, and the place looms large in the world of Evelyn Waugh's 'Brideshead Revisited'. Rules has also long been associated with King Edward VII and his circle, including the actress Lillie Langtry, whose portrait still hangs inside. In a city where restaurants routinely come and go within a few seasons, a dining room that has kept its ovens lit since before Napoleon's rise is a genuine rarity.

Practically speaking, Rules suits a certain kind of occasion. It is not a cheap weeknight curry substitute: expect classic cooking at a price that reflects both the ingredients and the address, with game mains and seafood commanding the upper end of the menu. Book ahead, especially for the festive season and the autumn game calendar, when the shooting season brings the most interesting dishes to the table. Dress smart-casual if you want to blend in, and consider arriving early to factor in a drink in the upstairs bar before sitting down.

The location does half the planning for you. You are minutes from Covent Garden's market, Somerset House, the Thames and theatreland, so it slots neatly into an evening before a West End show or a long weekend built around central London's galleries. For travellers who want a meal that is also a slice of London history, this is about as straightforward as it gets.

For context on the venue and its recent news, credit Secret London.