This classic Bloomsbury pub is a heritage gem that has much to offer the contemporary drinker, with a relaxed environment and a good range well-kept Young’s beers.

The Venue
Lambs Conduit Street with its specialist shops is one of Bloomsbury’s most fascinating thoroughfares, leading up to Corams Fields where Thomas Coram established the Foundling Hospital, a pioneering orphanage, in 1739. The hospital site is now a museum and the park is the only one in London where adults are banned unless accompanied by children.

Children are also welcome during the day at the Lamb, a rare original pub dating from the development of the area in the late 18th century. Traditional engraved glass windows and an impressive lamp guard an interior that’s charming, cosy and comfortable, while the main drinking area folds around three sides of the bar, with wood panelling, engraved glass and secluded corners – including an intimate space at the back. Numerous intriguing prints will catch your eye, including a series of Victorian political caricatures lining the stairs to the upstairs Empire Theatre Bar. The surviving twin rows of 'snob screens' – pivoting frosted glass panels designed so the gentry could avoid having to look at lowly bar staff – are a star attraction for pub heritage buffs. There’s also a small, pleasant beer garden.

The Atmosphere
The pub attracts a convivial mix of locals, beer fans, students prepared to venture a little out of the university area and better-informed tourists, with the example set by friendly staff. Engaged conversation is normally the only soundtrack in this muzak-free pub – unless you count the polyphon. This giant Victorian music box is still in working order and will be set in motion by the staff on payment of a charity donation. You’ll encounter live music once a month on a Saturday and a quiz on Sunday evening.

The Food
Like most of Young’s heritage pubs the Lamb offers a slightly upmarket pub grub menu, with sandwiches and platters at lunchtimes, main courses like sweet potato curry (£11.30), sausage and mash (£8.95), main course salads, steak and ale pie (£10.95) and daily special roasts (£10.95).

The Drink
A regular entry in the Good Beer Guide, the Lamb is one of the top recommendations in central London for a good range of well-kept Wells & Young’s beers. Young’s Bitter, Special, Gold and Wells Bombardier are the regulars, with seasonal and guests from Caledonian and St Austell. Meantime London Lager is on keg while bottles include Wells Banana Bread, Young’s Double Chocolate Stout and Special London Ale. 15 wines are on sale, most by the glass (from £3.65).

The Last Word
For lovers of classic London pubs, on the strength of its heritage interest alone, the Lamb is worth visiting. But as a living local boozer in a great bit of town, it’s unmissable.

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