OXFORD — The faded sign of The Lamb & Flag swung in the wind as staff removed barrels from one of Oxford’s oldest pubs, which has closed permanently during the coronavirus lockdown.
As the 16th-century inn wound up its operations, Oxford landlords warned of the “devastating” impact of national lockdowns on the university city’s cosy pubs.
Many were frequented by writers such as J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, and the fictional detective Inspector Morse, while they rely on student trade, social drinkers and tourists.
But like other English pubs, they have faced bans and restrictions since March last year and can currently only open for food delivery or takeaway.
“I know several…
Keep on reading: Oxford blues over coronavirus curbs on city’s historic pubs