Lamb and Flag — Restaurant in Oxford

A bizarre, and unpleasant experience.

I've only been to the Lamb & Flag a couple of times before, but have enjoyed the traditional atmosphere and selection of beers. We were at the L&F to celebrate the 2-year anniversary of our company. We were a group of about 15, mostly software developers, so certainly not the rowdy type. As a group we had been ordering a mixture of beers and non-alcoholic soft drinks.

After probably an hour and half or so, I went back to the bar and asked if I could order four Jaegerbombs (Jaegermaester finished with RedBull). The gentleman behind the bar informed me that they didn't sell Jaegerbombs. It's worth noting that it's not uncommon for some pubs in Oxford to not sell many spirits, especially where, like the L&F, they focus on local beers. To clarify, I asked if they stocked Jaegermaester, which he said they did, so I happily agreed to buy four Jaeger shots (nice as a cold digestif). After he'd poured these and I was about to pay, I saw in the fridge behind the bar a RedBull. I asked if I was allowed to buy a RedBull separately. My assumption had been that maybe that the reason he'd previously said they didn't sell Jaegerbombs was because of how their POS system was set up, and this wasn't an "off the shelf" option they sold to customers. After asking him this, the gentleman suddenly seemed to become annoyed, and told me "you're not welcome here" and to "take your business elsewhere".

I was quite shocked, and tried to clarify/calm down the situation, saying I was happy to buy just the four Jaegermaesters and leave the RedBull, but he became insistent on not serving me. Startled by the whole situation, I returned to my colleagues without a drink (I didn't want to ruin their night and stop them from being able to enjoy their drinks). Then, after no more than a couple of minutes, the gentleman from the bar proceeded to come over, and told me that he wanted me to leave the premises. I tried to have a conversation and explain I wasn't drinking, and simply letting my colleagues have their drinks, but he told me "I'm not going to discuss it with you", and proceeded to ask me to leave. I did so, and my colleagues followed shortly after.

I've reflected on this situation overnight and still am lost for any sort of explanation of the series of events. For something so trivial, in a nice setting, to escalate as it did felt wholly unnecessary and simply rude.

It might be that this individual (I think was the bar manager) had something against me personally (that I wasn't dressed a certain way?), or that he perceived Jaeger to be an "uncivilised" drink? I don't know, maybe never will, but the experience left me feeling embarrassed, confused, and unwelcome.

I hope the team at the Lamb & Flag takes a moment to reflect on how disproportionate and unpleasant this was, and how easily moments like this can sour what should have been a celebratory evening. An apology would be appreciated, but more importantly, I hope they reconsider how they treat their guests. No one should be made to feel like that over...

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...

The Lamb and Flag in Oxford is a historic pub that carries with it a legacy of literary significance, most notably as a favorite haunt of the renowned author J.R.R. Tolkien. Nestled amidst the cobbled streets of this academic city, the pub exudes an old-world charm that transports you to a bygone era.

Walking into The Lamb and Flag feels like stepping into a page of history. The low ceilings, exposed beams, and cozy nooks create an intimate setting that's perfect for gathering with friends or immersing oneself in a good book. The ambiance resonates with the spirit of intellectual exchange that has graced these halls for centuries.

The connection to J.R.R. Tolkien adds an enchanting layer to the pub's allure. It's said that he frequented The Lamb and Flag during his time as a professor at Oxford University, and the pub's influence is believed to have influenced scenes in his works. The rich tapestry of literary culture is palpable, and you can almost imagine Tolkien and his contemporaries engaging in lively discussions over a pint.

The drinks selection offers a variety of ales and beverages to suit different tastes, and the traditional British pub fare is hearty and satisfying. The friendly staff and cozy ambiance create an inviting atmosphere that encourages you to linger and savor the moment.

Whether you're a fan of literature, seeking a taste of Oxford's history, or simply looking for a charming place to unwind, The Lamb and Flag is a must-visit destination. It's a place where the echoes of the past merge seamlessly with the present, and where you can raise a glass to both the legacy of J.R.R. Tolkien and the enduring spirit of intellectual...