Lamb and Flag in Oxford

Another cozy spot that housed C. S. Lewis while he was with us in the flesh. It warmed my heart to see a painting of him proudly displayed, along with a photo of J. R. R. Tolkien, fellow Inklings. The Inklings were an informal literary discussion group associated with the University of Oxford in England. They met for nearly two decades, from the early 1930s to late 1949. While there were no formal rules, officers, or agendas, the Inklings were united by their love of literature, particularly narrative fiction and fantasy. They would gather, often in C.S. Lewis's rooms at Magdalen College or at the Eagle and Child pub in Oxford, to read aloud and discuss their works in progress, offering each other constructive criticism and encouragement. The most famous members of the Inklings were: * J.R.R. Tolkien: Author of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. * C.S. Lewis: Author of The Chronicles of Narnia and many other works of fiction and non-fiction. However, the group also included a number of other significant figures: * Owen Barfield: A philosopher, poet, and writer on language and consciousness. * Charles Williams: A novelist, poet, playwright, and theologian. * Warren Lewis: C.S. Lewis's older brother and a historian. * Hugo Dyson: A literary scholar and lecturer. * Robert Havard: A doctor and friend of Lewis and Tolkien. * Nevill Coghill: A literary scholar and translator of Chaucer. * Lord David Cecil: A literary biographer and scholar. * Adam Fox: A poet and academic. * Christopher Tolkien: J.R.R. Tolkien's son, who later became his literary executor. * Colin Hardie: A classical scholar. * J.A.W. Bennett: A literary scholar who succeeded C.S. Lewis at Cambridge. * Gervase Mathew: A historian and Dominican friar. * James Dundas-Grant: A member of the Oxford University Naval Division. * C.E. Stevens: A historian. * R.B. McCallum: A historian and political scientist. * C.L. Wrenn: A scholar of Anglo-Saxon. The Inklings played a significant role in the development of fantasy literature in the 20th century. Their discussions and mutual support fostered the creation of some of the most enduring and beloved works of the genre.

Good selection and a variety of seating options. A little too chilly now that the hearth can't be used, but that's OK. Like a lot of centuries-old pubs in Oxford, this place has history - including hosting Inklings meetings with CS Lewis. The little snug is a great spot!

"Mellon" is the necessary password to get in this legendary public house that once hosted several of our fellow members of every magical and adventurous literary worlds. To make sure you're visiting the correct spot...just search for the magical question that will welcome you old Eregion way "Say friend and enter"

Great old pub with lots of character, and characters. Loved the wood panelling and big bright windows at the front of the pub. Perfect for watching the world go by. Service was nice and friendly too.

L&F is a pretty cool old pub with a decent selection of beer. The two bartenders that served us were very helpful and friendly. Unfortunately for me I went on a very busy Sunday night and it was not conducive to snapping a traveling memory without some young muppets complaining about taking a picture. That being said, inside it's pretty nice and it gives off good vibes and I can imagine when its not super busy the atmosphere could be pretty warm and intellectual. It's easy to understand how this place became a favorite for Tolkien. If you are traveling, you should definitely make this a stop on your list, especially for its cultural significance.