London’s oldest restaurant, where Edward VII met his mistress and showbiz stars gathered, is now protected by the National Trust

A 228-year-old building that houses London's oldest restaurant has been donated to Europe's biggest conservation charity in the hope of saving it for centuries to come, according to a report by the Associated Press. Along with the building, the donation also includes items such as visitor books, menus, caricatures, photographs, stained glass and signs. It also includes annual rent from the ongoing restaurant business, which will go into conservation work each year.A memorable pastThe move, which now ensures that the Covent Garden restaurant cannot be sold on, has drawn attention for more than just its history. According to a report by Daily Mail, Edward VII often dined there with actress Lillie Langtry, even having a curtain specially installed to maintain their privacy. The king, who ruled from 1901 until his death nine years later, was married to Princess Alexandra of Denmark, with whom he had six children. However, he was known to have had a series of affairs. Among the women romantically linked with him were Lady Randolph Churchill, Winston's mother, actress Sarah Bernhardt, singer Hortense Schneider and socialite Alice Keppel.Apart from the royalty, a slew of celebrities frequ...