The Farmer’s Dog: What Do People Think Of Clarkson’s Pub?

This weekend, hundreds of people queued up to be among the first customers of Jeremy Clarkson’s new Cotswolds pub, The Farmer’s Dog. After much anticipation, the pub opened its doors at midday on Friday 23 August, located in the village of Asthall, near Burford in Oxfordshire. So was it worth the wait?

First Reactions To Clarkson’s Pub

Ahead of the opening, there was some concern from locals about the pub causing traffic problems, following the popularity of Clarkson’s farm shop at Diddly Squat. However, Clarkson worked with the Oxfordshire County Council to ‘reduce the likelihood of traffic and parking-related problems’. 

This seems to have worked as there were no major traffic queues – something Clarkson alluded to in his opening speech, saying: ‘enjoy yourselves, it’s a nice day and there’s no traffic chaos.’

 

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The pub has garnered mixed reviews from visitors. The Guardian reported a cheerful atmosphere on opening day, with happy fans enjoying al fresco drinks and good-quality food. There has been lots of positive feedback – one Google review described it as ‘The greatest pub in the world’, while another wrote: ‘Beautiful building, tasteful decor. Stunning views. Lovely people. Marvellous food.’ Food-wise, the steak pie proved particularly popular, selling out within just a couple of hours.

However, some have criticised the pub’s small portions and high prices: mains such as pie and mash, Lancashire hot pot, and gammon steak will set you back £19. Others have defended the prices, though, pointing out that locally-grown, fresh produce often comes at a higher cost than buying from big wholesalers. ‘Every single thing you’re going to consume in here was grown or reared by British farmers,’ Clarkson proudly told the crowd. 

Beer prices, on the other hand, are surprisingly reasonable, with a pint of Hawkstone Session Lager (Clarkson’s own beer brand) coming in at £5.50.

Keen to give it a go for yourself? The Farmer’s Dog is open on 28 August from 12pm – 10.30pm, then open for regular hours from 29 August. The pub is currently not taking reservations and operates on a first come first served basis. The address is: Asthall Barrow Roundabout, Burford OX18 4HJ. thefarmersdogpub.com