Visiting Jeremy Clarkson's pub, The Farmer's Dog, in the Oxfordshire countryside is far from a quiet affair. On a Sunday lunch visit, the scene resembled a festival, with stewards in high-visibility vests directing cars into a vast field already packed with hundreds, if not thousands, of vehicles. A fellow visitor's exclamation of 'bloody hell!' summed up the sheer scale of the operation.
The pub, located about 10 miles south of Clarkson's Diddly Squat farm shop on the A40, has become a major attraction. Despite having a reservation, the crowds were overwhelming, with people queuing for pints of Hawkstone beer—in which Clarkson owns a major stake—or simply to soak up the atmosphere. The beer garden alone accommodated thousands, enjoying the sunshine and views over Cotswolds farmland.
An hour early for lunch, visitors can explore a large shop selling Hawkstone lager, stout, IPA and cider in crates and gift packs, alongside jams, marmalades, honey, candles, branded clothing, and a butcher. The author purchased a crate of lager for £28 and a £12 jar of honey from Diddly Squat Farm's bees.
At 1pm, reservation holders were swiftly shown to their tables. The author's spot by the glass doors offered views of the bustling interior and the outdoor terrace, with a breeze and sunlight. The pub proudly displays its local sourcing credentials on a blackboard, naming farmers Vanessa Hartley and Nick Sinden, as well as Rectory Farm. Clarkson originally hoped to open a restaurant on his farm but, thwarted by planning rules and neighbours, instead bought a pub.
Drinks included a pint of Hawkstone Black stout (£7) and a half of Hawkstone lager (£3.50), both excellent. The pub is almost entirely booked up for June and July, reflecting its booming popularity.
