Lamb & Flag, London

This enduringly popular and welcoming 17th-century tavern, devoid of corporate influence and refreshingly unspoiled by gentrification, was previously called "The Bucket of Blood" due to its utilization of the upstairs area and front yard for winner-takes-all bare-knuckle fights, a form of live entertainment in days gone by. Nowadays, it has transformed into a much more amiable establishment, offering British cuisine and authentic ale. It's not uncommon to see patrons spilling onto the street, creating a lively atmosphere.

Nestled in an alley that connects Garrick and Floral streets, a plaque stands as a reminder of a significant event in history: the 1679 assault on poet John Dryden by King Charles's men at this very location. The building officially became a pub in 1772 and has proudly borne the name "Lamb & Flag" since 1833. The name itself is a quintessential British pub title, with "Lamb" symbolizing the Lamb of God, often depicted carrying a flag adorned with a cross.

Esteemed by the renowned author Charles Dickens, the interior of the pub exudes the quintessential ambiance of a traditional London pub, complete with cozy wooden furnishings, vintage brass fixtures, and an array of nostalgic photographs. You can still relish a superb meal, delightful company, and, naturally, a couple of pints or more.