Jeremy Clarkson, the former Top Gear presenter, has successfully launched his new pub, The Farmer’s Dog, in Oxfordshire, attracting hundreds of people to its opening day. Clarkson, who has gained fame in the farming industry through his show Clarkson’s Farm, appeared at the pub’s opening alongside his girlfriend and fellow stars from the show. The pub, previously known as the Windmill, features a range of British-only produce, including sausages made from local pigs. Clarkson is concerned about the British food system, stating that the cost of producing sausages from local pigs is significantly higher than importing pig meat from abroad.
However, he remains optimistic about the pub’s chances of success, believing that if all farmers opened their own pubs, it could have a significant impact on the food system. The pub’s opening was marked by a large queue of around 300 people, who had been waiting for hours to get inside. Clarkson made a grand entrance, holding up his phone to show the time and declaring “We’re not late. Welcome everybody!” As people filed into the pub, Clarkson expressed his hopes that the venture would not only be successful but also have a positive impact on the local community.
The pub itself features a large marquee, outdoor bar and food area, and shops selling produce, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors to the area. The launch of The Farmer’s Dog marks another venture in Clarkson’s growing list of agricultural and hospitality businesses, which includes his Diddly Squat farm shop and Hawkstone brewery. While some have expressed concerns over the potential impact of the pub on the local community, many, including local councillor Liam Walker, have expressed their support for the venture.
Clarkson’s commitment to supporting local farmers and using British-only produce has been met with enthusiasm, making the pub a popular destination for foodies and farming enthusiasts alike. Despite concerns over traffic congestion from the nearby A40, Clarkson reported a smooth opening day, thanks to the efforts of Oxfordshire County Council and the pub’s owners to manage parking and traffic flow.