Lamb and Flag: Oxford’s Historic Literary Pub
Historic Oxford pub cherished by literary legends Tolkien and Lewis, blending centuries-old charm with vibrant community spirit.
The Lamb and Flag, located at 12 St Giles' in Oxford, is a historic pub dating back to 1613, famed for its ties to literary greats like J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. Owned by St John’s College, it has been a cherished meeting place for the Inklings literary group and supports the university community. Recently restored and reopened by a community interest company, it blends centuries of tradition with a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
A brief summary to Lamb and Flag
- 12 St Giles', Oxford, OX1 3JS, GB
- +441865515787
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-11 pm
- Thursday 11 am-12 am
- Friday 11 am-12 am
- Saturday 11 am-12 am
- Sunday 11 am-11 pm
Local tips
- Visit the snug area restored to celebrate the original Inklings literary group gatherings.
- Look for the Elvish sign at the entrance—a nod to Tolkien’s legacy.
- Attend public events like talks and book launches held in the Georgian front room.
- Try traditional ales and ciders to experience authentic Oxford pub culture.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Oxford Bus Company routes serving the city center with stops near St Giles'. Buses run frequently every 10–20 minutes, with a journey time of 15–25 minutes from Oxford railway station. Tickets cost approximately £2–£3 one way.
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Walking
From Oxford city center, it is a 10–15 minute walk along pedestrian-friendly streets to 12 St Giles'. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most travelers.
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Taxi
Local taxis and ride-hailing services provide direct transport to the pub, with journey times of 5–10 minutes from central Oxford. Typical fares range from £5 to £10 depending on traffic.
Lamb and Flag location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lamb and Flag
A Storied Past Rooted in Oxford’s Literary Heritage
The Lamb and Flag has stood on St Giles' since 1613, though its origins trace back to at least 1566. Its name derives from the Agnus Dei, the Lamb of God symbol linked to St John the Baptist, reflecting its close association with St John’s College, which has owned the pub since 1997. The pub holds a special place in literary history as a haunt of the Inklings, the renowned Oxford writers’ group including J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. After the Eagle and Child pub, the Inklings’ original meeting place, underwent modernization, Lewis brought the group to the Lamb and Flag, continuing the tradition of intellectual discussion over pints until his death in 1963.Community and Cultural Significance Through the Centuries
Beyond its literary fame, the Lamb and Flag has been a vital part of Oxford’s social fabric, serving both ‘town and gown’—locals and university members alike. It has supported talented students from St John’s College through profits funding scholarships, underlining its role as more than just a pub but a community pillar. The pub’s atmosphere, with its snug and Georgian front room, has preserved the charm of centuries past, including tales of a lost smuggling tunnel from the English Civil War era.Revival and Restoration in the Modern Era
The Lamb and Flag faced closure during the COVID-19 pandemic, a blow to Oxford’s cultural heritage. However, a group of dedicated patrons and Oxford alumni formed a community interest company called The Inklings to lease and restore the pub. The reopening in October 2022 was symbolically timed to coincide with the anniversary of Tolkien’s arrival at Oxford, reinforcing the pub’s literary legacy. Renovations restored the Georgian front room to its original dimensions, removed modern alterations, and created a snug celebrating the Inklings. The pub now hosts public events such as talks, book launches, and community gatherings, revitalizing its role as a hub of conversation and culture.Atmosphere and Experience Today
Visitors to the Lamb and Flag are greeted by a warm, inviting interior filled with historic character and subtle Tolkien references, including a sign in Elvish script. The ambience combines the cozy intimacy of a traditional English pub with a sense of scholarly heritage. Lighting fixtures sourced from auctions and local artisans add to the unique aesthetic. The pub offers a selection of ales and ciders, maintaining its reputation as a classic Oxford watering hole without the pressures of a gastro-pub model.Architectural and Cultural Preservation
The building itself is a protected historic site, with careful restoration respecting its listed status. The removal of a 30-year-old bar and the return of original room proportions highlight a commitment to authenticity. The pub’s location near St John’s College and its association with Oxford’s academic and cultural history make it a landmark for visitors interested in both architecture and literary heritage.Enduring Legacy and Future Prospects
The Lamb and Flag’s reopening represents a triumph of community spirit and cultural preservation. It stands not only as a monument to Oxford’s rich literary past but as a living venue fostering new conversations and connections. With ongoing events and a renewed lease held by enthusiasts, the pub is poised to remain a cherished institution for generations to come.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
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- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
