The Lamb & Flag: Oxford’s Historic Literary Pub
Historic Oxford pub beloved by Tolkien and the Inklings, offering local ales and a vibrant community atmosphere since 1613.
The Lamb & Flag is a historic pub located at 12 St Giles', Oxford, renowned for its literary heritage as a haunt of the Inklings, including J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. Established in 1613 and owned by St John’s College, the pub supports student scholarships and offers a welcoming atmosphere with a focus on local ales. Recently restored and community-run, it blends centuries of tradition with a lively, student-friendly vibe.
A brief summary to Lamb and Flag
- 12 St Giles', Oxford, OX1 3JS, GB
- +441865515787
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
-
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
- Try the rotating selection of local real ales and ciders, highlighting Oxfordshire craft breweries.
- Visit the renovated snug to soak up the atmosphere where the Inklings once gathered.
- Attend one of the pub’s public events such as talks, book launches, or cultural discussions.
- Look for the Elvish-script sign at the entrance, a tribute to Tolkien’s legacy.
- Plan your visit during evenings or weekends when the pub is lively but can get busy, especially during term time.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Lamb and Flag location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Lamb and Flag
A Storied Past Rooted in Oxford’s Literary Scene
The Lamb & Flag has been a fixture in Oxford since 1613, though its origins trace back even further to 1566. Situated on St Giles’ Street, it gained fame as a favored meeting place for the Inklings, the literary group including J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. After the Inklings’ weekly meetings ended in 1949, Lewis continued to gather there until his death in 1963. The pub’s name derives from the Agnus Dei, the Lamb of God symbol associated with St John the Baptist, reflecting its close ties to St John’s College, which owns the building.Community Ownership and Restoration
Following closure during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, the Lamb & Flag was rescued by a community interest company named The Inklings, composed of Oxford locals, graduates, and students. This group secured a renewable 15-year lease, investing in a sensitive restoration that returned the Georgian front room to its original dimensions and removed later unsympathetic alterations. The snug, where the original Inklings met, has been renovated to celebrate this literary legacy. The pub now hosts public events including talks, book launches, and discussions, continuing its tradition as a hub of intellectual and cultural exchange.Ales, Atmosphere, and Ambience
The Lamb & Flag is celebrated for its excellent selection of local real ales and ciders, often featuring brews from Oxfordshire craft breweries alongside traditional favorites. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, popular with students, university staff, and locals alike. The interior combines historic charm with thoughtful lighting and design elements, such as opaline acorn-shaped lights and wrought iron sconces, creating a warm and inviting environment. Despite its popularity, the pub retains a casual, unpretentious vibe focused on quality drinks and good company.Connection to Scholarship and Oxford’s Academic Life
Owned by St John’s College, the pub’s profits have historically supported scholarships for talented DPhil students, linking its success directly to Oxford’s academic community. Though financial challenges during the pandemic led to temporary closure, the pub’s reopening under community stewardship ensures that it remains a vital part of the university’s cultural fabric. It continues to serve as a meeting point for both ‘town and gown,’ fostering connections between students, academics, and local residents.A Living Legacy with Modern Relevance
The Lamb & Flag exemplifies a successful blend of preservation and contemporary relevance. Its reopening in 2022 marked a renewal of Oxford’s pub culture after pandemic disruptions, with a focus on community engagement rather than profit. The pub’s sign, written in Elvish script, nods to Tolkien’s influence and delights fans of his work. Events and renovations are ongoing, emphasizing the pub’s role as a cultural landmark with a future as enduring as its past.Notable Features and Visitor Experience
Visitors can enjoy a snug atmosphere steeped in literary history, a wide range of quality ales, and a calendar of engaging events. The pub’s location on St Giles’ places it within easy reach of Oxford’s colleges and cultural sites, making it a favored stop for those exploring the city’s academic and historic heritage. The Lamb & Flag’s commitment to community ownership, quality, and tradition ensures it remains a cherished Oxford institution for generations to come.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Martyrs' Memorial
0.3 km
A towering Gothic Revival monument in Oxford honoring three Reformation martyrs who stood firm in faith during religious upheaval.
Oxford Magic Walking tours
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Explore Oxford's hidden gems and rich history with expert-led Magic Walking Tours, revealing the city's enchanting past and vibrant present.
Visit Oxford Tours
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Oxford Tours UK
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Discover Oxford’s rich history and literary heritage through personalized, expert-led walking tours in the city’s vibrant heart.
Clarendon Building
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An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Oxford Ecclesia Walking Tours
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Uncover the hidden gems of Oxford with Ecclesia Walking Tours, where history and culture converge in a captivating exploration of this iconic city.
Bridge of Sighs
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An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
The painted room
0.6 km
Explore The Painted Room in Oxford, a historical museum showcasing exquisite frescoes and captivating artistry that reflects the city's rich cultural heritage.
Brasenose College
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Historic Oxford college founded in 1509, renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and prestigious academic tradition.
Oxford Experience (University Official Souvenirs)
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Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and authentic memorabilia at the Oxford Experience, your ultimate shopping destination in this historic city.
IF Oxford: The Oxford Science and Ideas Festival
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Discover cutting-edge science and creative ideas at Oxford’s vibrant annual festival blending research, arts, and community engagement.
Great Jewry Marker
0.7 km
Commemorating Oxford’s medieval Jewish quarter on historic St Aldate’s, a testament to a vibrant community’s enduring legacy.
2.1
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Discover Oriel Square, Oxford’s historic academic hub where royal heritage meets timeless scholarly tradition in a serene city setting.
Tom Tower
0.8 km
Historic Gothic bell tower by Christopher Wren at Christ Church, home to the iconic Great Tom bell and a symbol of Oxford’s academic heritage.
Oxford Preservation Trust
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Discover the architectural beauty and cultural richness of Oxford through the dedicated efforts of the Oxford Preservation Trust.
Unmissable attractions to see
St John's College, Oxford
0.2 km
Explore the historic grandeur and serene gardens of Oxford’s wealthiest college, founded in 1555 and rich in academic tradition.
Wellington Square
0.2 km
A tranquil Georgian garden square in Oxford blending rich history, elegant architecture, and serene academic ambiance.
Keble College
0.2 km
Explore Keble College’s stunning Victorian-Gothic architecture, serene quads, and vibrant academic life in the heart of Oxford.
Ashmolean Museum
0.2 km
Explore centuries of art and archaeology at the Ashmolean, Oxford’s oldest museum with free admission and world-class collections.
Oxford Plan Bee
0.2 km
A community-driven urban initiative nurturing solitary bees through habitat creation and volunteer engagement in Oxford.
Balliol College
0.3 km
Step into centuries of academic tradition at Balliol College, Oxford’s oldest college with stunning architecture and tranquil gardens.
Somerville College
0.3 km
Historic Oxford college known for pioneering women’s education, beautiful architecture, and vibrant academic life.
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
0.3 km
Explore Earth's natural wonders in a breathtaking neo-Gothic museum, home to iconic dinosaurs, rare fossils, and vibrant live exhibits in Oxford.
Oxford Playhouse
0.3 km
Historic Georgian-style theatre in Oxford offering diverse live performances and a vibrant cultural programme.
Pitt Rivers Museum
0.3 km
Explore Oxford’s captivating Pitt Rivers Museum, home to vast global collections displayed in a unique Victorian setting with free entry.
University of Oxford
0.3 km
Explore the University of Oxford, a timeless blend of historic colleges, stunning architecture, and world-class scholarship in England’s iconic city of dreaming spires.
Trinity College
0.3 km
Discover Trinity College, Oxford: historic charm, stunning gardens, and timeless academic tradition in the city’s vibrant heart.
Wadham College
0.4 km
Discover Wadham College, Oxford’s historic Jacobean gem blending centuries of tradition with progressive spirit and beautiful gardens.
Oxford Outdoor Market
0.4 km
A vibrant open-air market in Oxford’s city center offering fresh produce, vintage finds, and global street food from Wednesday to Saturday.
Oxford Campus Stores
0.4 km
Discover Oxford’s spirit through a diverse range of university-themed apparel and gifts at Oxford Campus Stores, right in the city’s vibrant heart.
Essential places to dine
Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant
0.2 km
Stylish rooftop dining atop Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum with panoramic city views and modern British cuisine.
Pierre Victoire
0.2 km
Authentic French bistro in Oxford since 1996, offering classic cuisine, prix fixe menus, and a warm, intimate atmosphere with excellent value.
Wilding Oxford - Wine Dine Shop
0.2 km
A vibrant Oxford wine bar and restaurant blending inventive small plates with a unique, expertly curated wine selection.
Browns Oxford
0.2 km
A stylish Oxford brasserie blending French bistro charm with classic British fare and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Parsonage Grill
0.2 km
Sophisticated British dining in Oxford with art-filled ambiance, impeccable service, and a charming garden terrace for all-day enjoyment.
The Alice
0.3 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of Oxford, nestled within the historic Randolph Hotel opposite the Ashmolean Museum.
Turtle Bay Oxford
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and rhythms of the Caribbean in the heart of historic Oxford with bold dishes and tropical cocktails.
The White Rabbit
0.3 km
A lively Oxford pub serving exceptional thin-crust pizzas and local ales in a vibrant, quirky setting loved by students and locals alike.
Bbuona
0.4 km
Experience authentic Roman-style pinsa and vibrant Italian flavours in the heart of Oxford at Bbuona Pinsa Bar.
Red Lion Oxford
0.4 km
Historic Oxford gastropub blending traditional British hospitality with contemporary dining in the city centre.
Bella Italia - Oxford
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with warm service and a rustic ambiance in Oxford’s lively George Street.
Gino's
0.4 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm family-run charm await you in the heart of Oxford at Gino's Spaghetti House.
ASK Italian - Oxford
0.4 km
Vibrant Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and seasonal specials in Oxford’s lively George Street hub.
No.1 Ship Street
0.4 km
Elegant modern British brasserie in Oxford’s heart, famed for fresh seafood, grilled meats, and a cozy, intimate dining atmosphere.
Thaikhun
0.4 km
Experience authentic Thai street food in a vibrant, colorful setting with generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere in Oxford’s city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Discover quirky Danish design and colorful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen, Oxford’s lively variety store on Magdalen Street.
The Shop of Secrets
0.4 km
Discover magical collectibles and Harry Potter treasures in a warm, inviting Oxford shop with a personal touch.
Watsons of Oxford
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts in a charming Oxford shop offering authentic souvenirs and stylish finds in the city center.
Broad Canvas
0.4 km
Oxford’s trusted art and craft supply store since 1981, offering expert advice and quality materials for artists and creatives.
Oxford Gifts & Candyland
0.4 km
Explore unique gifts and delicious sweets at Oxford Gifts & Candyland, the heart of local craftsmanship in Oxford.
Cool Britannia
0.4 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and unique gifts in the heart of Oxford at Cool Britannia, your go-to shop for memorable memorabilia and more.
Bodleian Weston Library Shop
0.4 km
Explore exclusive literary gifts and scholarly treasures at the Bodleian Weston Library Shop in Oxford’s iconic Weston Library.
The Crafters Emporium
0.4 km
Discover unique handmade crafts and local artistry at The Crafters Emporium, Oxford’s charming gift shop on historic Cornmarket Street.
The Oxford Gift Shop
0.5 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and local crafts in the heart of the city at The Oxford Gift Shop, open daily with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Objects of Use
0.5 km
Discover beautifully crafted, sustainable household tools and unique gifts at Objects of Use, Oxford’s modern hardware store with a global soul.
Bodleian Libraries Shop in Old School's Quad
0.5 km
Discover exclusive scholarly gifts and rare books in the historic heart of Oxford’s Bodleian Libraries.
Space Store Oxford
0.6 km
Explore authentic space merchandise and immersive VR experiences in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Space Store Oxford.
Crystal Spirit Emporium
0.6 km
Discover unique crystals, minerals, and artisanal gifts in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Crystal Spirit Emporium.
Soctopus
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Discover quirky, personality-filled socks with British charm at Soctopus, nestled in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
Goodies Oxford
0.6 km
Discover curated clothing and timeless style at Goodies, a vibrant boutique in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Duke Of Cambridge
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LJ - Love Jericho Cocktail Bar
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White Horse
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The Grapes
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King's Arms, Oxford
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The Three Goats Heads Pub
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OXO BAR
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Jude The Obscure
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The Varsity Club
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Experience Oxford’s best rooftop views and vibrant nightlife at The Varsity Club, a stylish multi-floor venue blending cocktails, music, and cityscape charm.
The Lighthouse
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Slug & Lettuce - Oxford
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Hanks Bar
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Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Hanks Bar, where classic American style meets energetic dance floors and expertly crafted cocktails.
All Bar One Oxford
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Cow & Creek
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Thirst Bar
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Lively cocktail bar and nightclub in Oxford with expert bartenders, heated outdoor terrace, and a vibrant late-night atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fever Oxford
0.3 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
Plush Oxford
0.5 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
The Bridge Nightclub
0.7 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
Oxford Leisure Ltd
0.7 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
ATIK Oxford
0.7 km
Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
Kiss Bar
0.7 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
Mirage Aylesbury
31.4 km
Experience Aylesbury’s vibrant nightlife at Mirage, a lively nightclub offering music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of town.
TWC
37.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
The Venue, Bucks
37.7 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
37.8 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
Popworld - Reading
38.8 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Reading Lola Lo
38.8 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Q Club
38.9 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
Gun Street Garden
39.1 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Diligence
40.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Casual
- Unique
- Historic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Community-Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- 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
