The Lamb and Flag - Covent Garden - Pub Reviews

Name: Lamb & Flag

Location: 33 Rose Street, Covent Garden, London, WC2E 9EB

Phone: 020 7497 9504

Opening Hours:

• Monday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM

• Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

Facilities & Entertainment:

• Parking: No

• Darts & Pool Table: No

• Live Sports: Yes; the pub shows live sports events, including rugby matches.

Food on Offer:
The Lamb & Flag offers a diverse menu featuring traditional English pub fare crafted from fresh, local produce. Popular dishes include their renowned Sunday roast, which has garnered praise for its quality and authenticity. The menu also features small plates, sandwiches, mains, sides, and puddings, catering to a variety of tastes.

Beers on Tap:
The pub boasts a well-stocked bar with a selection of modern craft beers and cask classics. Regularly changing guest ales are also featured, ensuring a varied experience for beer enthusiasts.

Price Range: ££ (Moderate)

• Food: Main courses are reasonably priced, with the popular Sunday roast offering good value for money.

• Drinks: Ales and other beverages are competitively priced, making it accessible for most patrons.

Customer Service: Feedback on customer service is mixed. While many patrons appreciate the historic ambiance and quality offerings, some have reported delays in service during peak times. On a recent visit, I noticed that the staff, though present, appeared somewhat indifferent, leading to longer wait times for orders. This suggests that while the pub has much to offer, there is room for improvement in attentiveness and efficiency.

Events & Special Nights:
The Lamb & Flag hosts various events, including live sports screenings. Notably, the pub is a venue for watching rugby matches, providing a lively atmosphere for sports enthusiasts.

In-Depth Review:
Hidden in a quiet alley just off the bustling streets of Covent Garden, the Lamb & Flag is one of London’s most iconic pubs, steeped in nearly 400 years of history. Once known as the "Bucket of Blood" for its infamous bare-knuckle boxing matches, this pub has transformed from a rough-and-tumble haunt into a cosy yet vibrant retreat, seamlessly blending old-world charm with modern hospitality.

What sets the Lamb & Flag apart is its unique sense of identity. The building itself is a marvel—one of the few remaining timber-framed structures in Central London, with parts dating back to the 17th century. Despite its age, the pub is impeccably maintained, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere with exposed wooden beams, low ceilings, and a layout that encourages conversation and conviviality.

The pub is owned by Fuller’s Brewery, which ensures that the beer selection is top-notch. London Pride, Fuller’s flagship ale, is a perennial favourite, but seasonal brews and guest ales provide variety and excitement for regular visitors. Each pint is served with care, making the Lamb & Flag a haven for beer lovers.

Food is another highlight. The kitchen delivers classic British dishes with a touch of refinement, ensuring that every meal feels both familiar and satisfying. The Sunday roast is a must-try, featuring tender cuts of meat, crispy roast potatoes, and perfectly prepared vegetables—all drenched in rich gravy. It's no surprise that locals and tourists alike flock here for a taste of traditional British cuisine.

The Lamb & Flag attracts a diverse crowd. By day, you’ll find history buffs and solo travellers soaking in the pub’s rich heritage, while evenings bring in a lively mix of professionals, couples, and groups of friends looking for a cosy spot to unwind. Its location in the heart of Covent Garden makes it a popular choice for pre-theatre drinks or a relaxed evening out.

The pub’s intimate size and historic layout mean accessibility can be a challenge. The narrow interiors and staircases are less accommodating for those with mobility concerns, but outdoor seating provides an alternative option during warmer months. The space is dog-friendly, adding to its welcoming charm.

If there’s room for improvement, it lies in the lack of modern amenities like live sports or dedicated entertainment. However, this feels intentional, as the pub’s appeal lies in its traditional charm and historical significance rather than in flashy extras.

To sum up, the Lamb & Flag is more than just a pub—it’s an experience. Whether you’re a local Londoner or visiting the city for the first time, this is a place that captures the essence of what makes British pubs so special. From its rich history and impeccable beer selection to its hearty food and inviting atmosphere, the Lamb & Flag truly embodies the spirit of Covent Garden. It’s not just a pub; it’s a piece of London’s soul.