At the opening of the renovated venue, Steinmeier noted that the Beethovenhalle is not only dedicated to Bonn's most famous son and his music. "It is also, and you can surely guess that this is particularly close to my heart, a place of democratic history." This democratic history began after World War II. Germany lay in ruins destroyed, divided and internationally isolated.
The famous Simpson's Tavern - an 18th century London institution - is set to re-open next year. After over 250 years in business, the Grade II-listed restaurant closed in 2022 after a rent dispute . However, the team behind nearby restaurant and wine bar Cloth have taken over and will be relaunching the venue under the new name of Cloth Cornhill.