A great, authentic English pub with excellent food as well as a great selection of beers. Our server, Hannah, was outstanding!

Ugh I just love the Lamb and Flag. Just good mems, super fun vibe, wasn't even annoying that my beer wasn't the best thing I've ever drank. L & F is a london must. read more

Lamb & Flag - Mediocre beer made better by the vibe. - Pubs Near Me - London, XGL

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Food and atmosphere match the amazing history of this ancient pub. We came here 1st day in London for first meal based on a recommendation and I'll say it was a great into to the city, people and her food! Good to call ahead if you want a table though! read more

I just took my grandson to Lamb & Flag during his first trip to London. He was excited about the history and wanted to have his first Sunday roast here. Let me preface by saying the service and ambiance was excellent. However, the "roast" was an epic fail. The "roast beef" was obviously processed "meat" and was consistently a grey-brown color, uniform slices and looked like they rolled off a deli slicer. The pumpkin and swede mash was watery and the amount barely a spoonful. There were 3 small toast potatoes and a few overcooked carrots. The Yorkshire pudding was tough. Another guest in our party ordered the duo and her chicken was a dry, processed breast, not the bone-in piece we were told it would be. We received three £10 M&S ready-to-go meals and paid £115 ($145 USD). Sorely disappointed. read more

Great atmosphere if you are looking for a traditional pub. Waitstaff was very friendly and helpful but the food was average. They were out of most of their menu due to World Cup game earlier in the day. read more

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Great pub food!! Service with a smile and the Ambiance is cheerful local pub style. Overall experience was very pleasant.

I needed a traditional fix. It was 6pm and the place was hoppin. I drank my beer in the alley out front. Yes, you read that right. We all stand around out in the street and drink beer. Good so far. I head upstairs for some fish and chips. Grabbed a table by the window, and order said food. drink more beer. Food arrives. Amazing. Is it crowded? Yes. Is it crowded for a reason? Yes. Go. Drink beer in the street. Eat fish and chips. drink more beer. You'll be happy and sleep well. read more

A Charles Dickens haunt! Great historic pub with great food! The Seafarers Ale went great with the minted lamb sausages and sweet potato mash. Great Scotch Egg as well! Great pub atmosphere and loved the narrow passageway when entering from the north. read more

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Kids not allowed on the first floor but don't fret, their second floor is! Our bike tour guide Whiskey Mike took us here for a drink break. This is a must place to check out while in London. Fish and chips is a must try! 400 year old pub! Older than anybody that you and I know! Great pub to hang out and have a drink. Don't forget to look at the little fight posters thats hanging on the walls. read more

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Honestly I had high hopes for this place. I had wanted to try an authentic British Pub while in London and this place kept coming up on every list of best pubs in London and was centrally located so I figured I would give it a go. The place is in a little alley just off of a busy street. The downstairs area you first walk into is the main bar area which is mainly for drinking and you will want to head up the stairs in front of the first bar if you're looking to have a sit down pub dinner. The downstairs area is very crowded and cramped and once primetime evening drinking crowd arrives there is very little room to breath much less move around in that area so just be warned about that in advance if you're planning to come just for a drink. My fiancée and I made our way upstairs and were asked by the host upstairs if we had reservations. We replied no as the host looked around the room with many tables and only 2 being occupied as if the place was about to suddenly get super crowded and busy with patrons who had made a reservation (spoiler alert: it didn't. Once seated we looked over the food and drink menu. The beer list here is quite small for a pub but had a few good local offerings. We started with the Scotch Eggs as appetizers and they were not bad honestly but it all went downhill from there. We both ordered the braised beef shoulder as it sounded really good in the description on the menu. What we received was the dryest, toughest, and most flavorless dish I've had in the longest time. Both of us had no desire to finish this dish we received. The mashed potatoes with it were no better. We ordered the sticky toffee pudding for dessert and while not terrible in no way made up for the terrible main course. Service was very slow and required flagging down the waitress on multiple occasions to get our dessert and then the check. All in all this place was a major disappointment that I would not recommend. When I'm back in London next time I will most definitely be trying a different traditional British pub in hopes it will be a better choice than Lamb & Flag. read more

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A very cute little tucked away pub. Perfect for a preshow cocktail or beer! The bar is small, but it spills over into the little lane out front! Rumored to be over 400 years old! read more

Lamb & Flag - Seafarers English ale - Pubs Near Me - London, XGL

The benefits of family vacations are overrated. Taking children along for the ride is a thankless task that can lessen your enjoyment of both the trip and your children. And that's why I say thank God for beer. When I suggested a holiday trip to London neither one of my adult-in-training sons seemed very engaged by the idea. One asked whether we couldn't go somewhere more exotic and possibly go to more than one country. The other lamented the time not being spent with his friends. In the end, both went but that was all they did. Not long into our trip I had the distinct impression that neither son had a single thought on what they might want to see or do during their time in London. How wrong I was. It took several days for me to realize, but my 21-year old actually did have a vision for the trip. It wasn't my vision but still, a vision nonetheless. It looked something like this: * Sleep in until around 11:30 a.m. * Go out for breakfast around 12:30 p.m. * Walk around for a couple of hours. * Hit the pubs. Repeat until closing time. You can't say that's not a vision. So that's why I'm reviewing the Lamb & Flag, the pub which he proclaimed his favorite of the many we graced. Why this one, I don't really know but the fact that it's been here since the 1600's is a start; you can't find that in the United States. As well as being the oldest pub you're likely to find, Lamb & Flag was also a favorite watering hole of Charles Dickens. Its down a narrow alleyway in Covent Garden and you're unlikely to come across it unless you specifically seek it out. They serve about 8 different beers/ales on tap, cocktails too (Brit style, meaning not so great), have a couple of different rooms to drink in, maybe some seating for you (or maybe not), and food is served upstairs. This is actually a cool, historic pub which doesn't shout that fact. Go here, throw back some pints, imagine Dickens doing the same, and be on your way. This pub has the seal of approval not only from me but also from my 21-year old and 18-year old sons. Yes, they can drink at 18 over here, and boy does that ever improve the family vacation. read more

Lamb & Flag - The origins of this pub, one of the very oldest you will ever come across. - Pubs Near Me - London, XGL

Excellent restaurant if you're looking for that classic London pub experience! Lamb & Flag is over 400 years old and still kicking! The pub is downstairs. Go upstairs for the food. The staff is very friendly and attentive to keep the pints full. Definitely get the fish and chips, no brainer there. The tartar sauce has giant capers making it very flavorful. Fish is crispy and perfectly fried. I don't know where the stereotype comes from that English food is bland. This definitely was not the case! The black pudding scotch eggs are also worth a try. read more

Lamb & Flag - Scotch Eggs and Meat Pie - Pubs Near Me - London, XGL

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Guinness was cold and refreshing. The ambiance, not so much. Quiet and had an interesting smell. Dark and no music. Bar was pretty empty so service was fast. Very old pub with history. If you care about that, check it out. If not, maybe avoid. read more

So great. We went twice. Once sat downstairs in the dim lighting area in the back near the fireplace and got a great pie and a delicious sausage thing, a couple of pints, and a good conversation with the bartender. The next time we sat upstairs (which is a more lit room) and had fancy mushrooms and spinach on toast and fish and chips. Both great. And pints of course. Very traditional pub -- no screens, no music. Old drawings and diagrams on the wall. Perfect ambience. Highly recommended. read more

My kids dragged me into the 400 year old pub and was not disappointed!! What a historic Place! We had dinner in another place nearby in Covent Garden and our kids dug this gem up on Google! They identified this 400 years plus old pub as the place Charles Dickens went to have a pint! Even though the downstairs pub area was standing room only, we luckily got a seat for four. We got some Fuller beer and Guiness and enjoyed them thoroughly while soaking up the history of this place! The beers were of course, excellent! Will be back again, next time we are in London! Well done, Lamb and Flag! read more

You know that a pub must be great when you need wait behind a few other guys for a pint at 12:30 in the afternoon on a Thursday. Great selection of draft beers and very tasty lunch choices. Awesome history as well, this is the oldest pub in Covent Garden! read more

After the purchase by Fuller's brewing, sadly no longer an independent pub, but still oozing with character from its 400 years of history. Was surprised and pleased at how good the food was. Dropped in for lunch and really enjoyed my chicken Sunday Roast (about £14). Perhaps tied for second with the Marquis of Westminster for my favorite meal over eight days in England. Fullers cask ales were quite good. Kid-friendly as well! Comfortable seating, good service. I recommend making a reservation if you plan to come on a Sunday afternoon. read more

Nice pub after a day of shopping in Covent Market. We came around 2p and sat upstairs (that's where they serve the food) it was delish! We had steak pie and also the goat cheese tart. The salad with my tart was very good! Must see when in the area. It's the oldest pub around here. Charles Dickens frequented here I'm told read more

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For this old goat, the Lamb & Flag has to be one of my favorite Pubs in London besides The Spaniards Inn. There are no more words to describe this legendary establishment that haven't already been said. All I can say, if your visiting London make this place a must see, you won't be disappointed. Tucked away in an alley, you come upon a cobblestone, picturesque building aged beyond imagination. Upon entry you feel a resounding appeal for the history, but in a modern era. Nice selection of drafts and great vibe inside and out. Cheers to those lovely people I met sitting at the bar chatting it up and to the bartender who welcomed me with a firm handshake, Cheers!. I'm a Big Fan! read more

Solid! Classical 400+year pub that should be on everyone's pub list when visiting London! Our Order: two pints of London's Finest. Environment: 400+year old pub with an amazing entrance on both sides (small alley with a 5' clearance or a beautiful side street entrance). The pub is downstairs and the food is upstairs. Verdict: the staff was super friendly, the place oozed with a feeling of history, and you can easily find a spot to hang up your coat. A definite must stop on your London pub list! Tips: if it's cold outside, sit in the back or near the front door heater. Come through the back entrance for a feel of what it felt like back in the old days. Make sure to take a picture. Next Time: I'd order another beer and would most likely try the food upstairs. It smelled delicious and the seating looked comfortable. read more

Lamb & Flag - Pubs Near Me - London, XGL

Any place that was good enough for Charles Dickens is good enough for me! Head up an alleyway and you'll find this charming establishment founded circa 1620. It is charming and cozy inside with a large bar and tight seating. Venture upstairs and find a more spacious area with another bar and dining room with fireplace. The staff were extremely knowledgeable of local beers and helped our crew out. He suggested the spiked cider, which was a true delight after a long day outside. I got the steak pie, which had a crispy top and sat on a bed of the softest and most delicious mashed potatoes I have ever had. The steak was perfectly tender and the gravy on top was flavorful. My mother had the burger, which was also excellent. A true British pub, and so incredible! read more

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I found this pub in a book with the name: A pub for every occasion and because it was near to covent garden we planned to go lunch in here. It is in one of those lovely side-roads where more people walk on the road then there will be cars driving. This pub isn't big but good enough for a long stay with friends and beers or a quick lunch with your mum, so I did the last thing and I liked it. My mom took the pork pie, which is a side dish and cold. I eat the really good fried fish and chips. it was fresh and the chips where probably cut in the kitchen. The lunch is a bit expensive but worth it. What I really like is that on lunch time it doesn't have a beer-smell. Only one thing: the bar-stools aren't high enough to eat from your plate on the side tables, you have to stand up and eat you food... read more

Lamb & Flag - Pubs Near Me - London, XGL

A little pricey, but worth it for that classic London pub experience. Not only is it cool-looking and hundreds of years old, but Charles Dickens hung out there!! The beer and ciders were yummy. Nice selection. The portions are generous. My sister and I shared the fish and chips, best choice we made in London. read more

Lamb & Flag - The view from the alley. We took a million photos here. - Pubs Near Me - London, XGL

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Great location in Covent Garden for authentic old pub. We had dinner here with a group of ten. Seemed like the outdoor drinking area was a place to be seen & mingle. The dinner food reviews were mixed. The fish and chips were authentic & amazing. The lamb shepherds pie was just ok & not very hot. Service was friendly. read more

Lamb & Flag - Pubs Near Me - London, XGL

You can feel the history here! Great dish & chips. The tartar sauce was really delicious. Mashed peas were meh, but maybe they're supposed to be like that? I'm a New Yorker. Anyway, I truly enjoyed my meal here. Fast, delicious and fun! read more

Lamb & Flag - Fish & chips - Pubs Near Me - London, XGL

Lackluster lunch experience. Fish & Chips were not crispy, the bartender upstairs wS nice enough but he did not wash hands between clearing tables, handling money and also serving food. Felt kinda gross. The upstairs room also did not have much of an atmosphere. I had an email from Fullers for a free pint and was glad I had it since overall the experience was not great. Perhaps come for the fun historic value and take a look around with a pint. Don't bother with the food as there are so many other delicious choices in Covent Garden. read more

You just have to go for historical purposes and enjoy some chips and cold brew - your choice. I go for the ice cold cider and my husband and our business companion for pints, after pints after pints of beer. Out door seating is very social and gregarious when the office people walk out and stop by on their way home. read more

Whilst on a walking tour this weekend, Jen introduced us to the Lamb and Flag - a beautiful little pub tucked away down a side alleyway off the hustle and bustling Covent Garden streets. She informed us of its grand history and how Charles I used to frequently frequent this establishment. It is now owned by Fullers (a London brewery institute) and although it is now part of a chain, it hasn't lost its charm. Post tour, Alex and I took my brother back to the Lamb and Flag for dinner. It was packed downstairs so we headed up stairs and managed to grab a table with ease. The service was a tad slow but we weren't in any particular rush so it didn't really bother. The food, traditional British, was good but nothing spectacular. Typical to Fullers, they pride themselves on their pies but if you have anything other than that, the food kind of falls flat. I opted for the fish and chips. The fish was nice but soggy on the bottom and the chips were typical bag chips shoved in a deep fat fryer. But for me, this pub is perfect for an afternoon pint in a truly traditional British pub. Sure it's crammed with tourists but if you find a little knuck in the corner you'll easily be able to sit and enjoy the atmosphere for hours and who knows you may even be sat where Charles sat himself :) read more

Lamb & Flag - Fish, chips and a side of charger... - Pubs Near Me - London, XGL

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I had a friend in town and while I'm not big on going out in London, I did some research for places to eat/drink near Covent Garden and Lamb and Flag came up. I booked a table here for dinner on a Wednesday night and this place did not disappoint. Unlike other pubs in London this one wasn't too noisy - I think it's because the dining room is upstairs from the pub downstairs, which is nice to have some separation. Good food, spacious dining area, good service. I'm not in Covent Garden very often but if I am, I'd definitely be OK going back to this place. read more

Booked a table here for dinner on a Sunday afternoon and was absolutely thrilled with how it turned out! Not only do you get a free drink here if you sign up online (you have to do it the day before you go to the pub!) but their pub menu is absolutely great! Expect the standard pub fare, but just extremely well cooked. My fish and chips were one of the better pub versions I've had, with crispy and crunchy batter and flaky and fresh fish. The chips were pretty bog standard, and the tartar sauce has an added onion kick which I loved. It cost £12 which while not cheap, is certainly in line with the majority of pubs in London regardless of the fact this is right in the heart of Covent Garden! Service is a little slow when you're dining but it is a pub after all, not a restaurant! All in all, a great little pub hidden away in the heart of London. Would likely come back again if I needed somewhere a bit more low key with a guaranteed table if you reserve! read more

Lamb & Flag - Fish and chips, surprisingly great! - Pubs Near Me - London, XGL

On of the oldest pubs in London, The Lamb and Flag has been wetting the collective whistle of Covent Garden since 1623. As such it is a place rightly proud of its history and this is refelcted in the interior which is rustic and filled with interesting knick-knacks that keep your eyes darting about. There's something notalgic and almost romantic about The Lamb and Flag with the exception of the TV constantly tuned to sports channels. Due to its relatively small size and proximity to Covent Garden shopping, The Lamb and Flag can become very crowded especially immediately after five and at lunchtimes as such if you're looking for a more relaxed drink then it's best to head here during office hourse of on a weekend afternoon. The food is as traditional as the rest of the pub with standard of offerings of British favourties including a Sunday roast. Likewise the drinks lean to the traditonal with a large selection of real ales and a cracking choice of whiskeys. This place may be spoilt somewhat by the presence of tourists and city boys but it still retains its historic charm. read more

Lamb & Flag - Pubs Near Me - London, XGL

This was my favorite pub of the trip. It's pretty small/ cozy, but I really liked the setting. For whatever reason, seemed to be more locals/ less touristy than some of the other places that I'd visited. The streets closeby have lots of good photo opportunities too. read more

It's very rare I get to meet colleagues on my team as we're spread out across the United States. When I knew I was going to be in London for a few days, I e-mailed one of my business partners to see if we would be able to meet up for a pint or two. We met him in Leicester Square and made our way over to the Lamb & Flag. I was playing the part of the American tourist and went for the Fish & Chips. There's no more proper order than Fish & Chips when in spending my last day in London. The fish was a nice golden brown. The mushy peas blended well with the cream & chips. Another great Fuller's pub with a friendly staff. Finding this pub is a little interesting as you do feel like your walking through the back allies of London, but nothing to be scared about. read more

Lamb & Flag - Fish & Chips - Pubs Near Me - London, XGL

Another pub that locals frequent....I was fascinated how it was in a little alleyway and that it was, as locals call it, a proper pub. Fish and chips were meh, and SO and tour guide really enjoyed their pints here. I like how you can bring dogs in the pub and met two very friendly and sweet bulldogs. read more

Love the atmosphere. While visiting my fav girl in London we took the tiny little passage way directly beside Lamb & Flag on a daily basis. As each day passed I became more and more intriguied by the crowds that gathered outside everyday. Finally, our time had arrived. As we nudged our way inside I became giddy with anticipation. I love these Londoners. Just out to have a refreshing brew after work without any false pretense. I wish America was like this. Everyone heading to the bar after work for one reason only ... to blow off steam. All having a jolly ol' time. The inside is full of charm and character aged by the many that have visited this establishment throughout the hundreds of years of business. It's a must! read more

Lamb & Flag - Pubs Near Me - London, XGL

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A true British pub. It looks like something out of a Charles Dickens novel. Great pub in Covent Garden. read more

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Great selection of Fullers on draught. Genuine British pub. Inexpensive! Pint and half pint ales at £ 5.60 Calmer not as crowded. read more

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Arrived a few minutes before they opened and it was just me, waited ten minutes a crowd of like 20 locals waiting to get in for the work lunch libation and food. Food was good, very local pub feel. Realized it's one of the oldest pubs in london. read more

Lamb & Flag was such a cool place! The bartenders were super accomodating (luckily we went during lunch where they had a bit more time) in explaining to me why beer in the UK is sometimes warm, and helping recommend me some good beers that they had. I had a few different Fullers, of course, a delicious Steak Ale Pie as well. Definitely an old feel to this, and I enjoyed y time there. read more

Lamb & Flag - Steak & Ale Pie - Pubs Near Me - London, XGL