A famous, historic pub squeezed into a corner of Covent Garden that pulls in the masses.

The Venue
The Lamb and Flag, built in 1623, is the oldest pub in Covent Garden and quite possibly one of the oldest in the whole city. Sandwiched in a corner on Rose Street, between Garrick Street and Floral Street, it’s off the main drag and, even though it’s well known, you still get the feeling that you’ve stumbled across a piece of history when you turn the corner and see it.

Its wooden front, window boxes and alleyway at the side give it a romantic air of old London. It used to be called the Bucket of Blood because of the bare-knuckle fights that it staged in the courtyard outside and both Charles Dickens and John Dryden apparently drank here.

The Atmosphere
The pub’s fame and charm attract lots of tourists and people working locally, so it’s really busy at lunchtimes and weekends. On Friday evenings it’s always packed with people having after-work drinks who can spill out on to the street, but there’s an upstairs which is slightly less busy and where there’s a chance of finding a bar stool. The low ceilings, wood interior and the sheer age of the place make it very cosy and atmospheric. It’s one of those places that you might drop into for a quick drink after work and end up staying all night.

The Food
This is a good place to come for traditional British staples like lamb stew and roast beef. Lighter lunch options include a roast beef doorstep sandwich, chicken salad and ploughman’s lunch. On Sundays you can enjoy a Sunday roast while you listen to a live band playing trad jazz.

The Drink
The pub is especially well known for its selection of whiskies, from house whiskies like Grouse, Teachers and Bells to single malt Scotches like Glenlivet and Glenmorangie. It also serves six different types of real ale.

The Last Word
A cosy pub with lots of character, that’s well worth a visit. Just get there early or be prepared for a bit of a crowd.

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