Jeremy Clarkson's new pub The Farmer's Dog opens in Oxfordshire
Jeremy Clarkson's Pub Draws Huge Crowds
Picture credits to PA Media
Clarkson's latest project will offer a variety of beers and ciders made by one of his businesses.
Charlotte Andrews and the PA Media company
Hundreds of individuals waited in line for hours to be some of the first customers at Jeremy Clarkson's new pub when it opened for business.
The Farmer's Dog, located in Asthall near Burford in Oxfordshire, welcomed visitors at noon British Summer Time.
The ex-Top Gear host announced earlier this year that he had purchased the pub, previously named The Windmill, for under £1 million.
A massive effort was made to handle traffic and parking issues after the popularity of his Diddly Squat farm shop caused problems.
Picture credit, PA Media
Many individuals waited in line outside the bar for four hours, excited to be the first ones inside.
Clarkson explained to the journalists his reasons for wanting to launch the pub.
Last year, we were hoping to open a restaurant on the farm but we were unable to do so. Additionally, all the pubs in the area are currently up for sale.
Therefore, we decided to purchase a pub instead of constructing a restaurant.
He said that preparing for the opening was very nerve-racking.
Running a pub involves many unexpected challenges and responsibilities that may not have crossed your mind.
Yesterday we had a small opening and someone broke the bathroom door.
"When attending a festival and using the portable toilets, it may make you wonder - is my bathroom at home as basic as this one? Have you ever accidentally broken a bathroom door?"
Picture credit, PA Media
The author and host was accompanied by the actors from his popular Amazon television series Clarkson's Farm for the premiere.
In the first position of the line were Lauren Hanly and Blake Jones, who had journeyed from Gloucester.
Ms. Hanly mentioned that they were excited to try the food after visiting Clarkson's other ventures, the Diddly Squat farm shop and Hawkstone Brewery, which are both featured in his TV show Clarkson's Farm on Amazon.
"We arrived before 8:00 and were pleasantly surprised to find ourselves at the front of the line. We had expected more people to be there earlier, but the gates didn't open until 7:30," she explained.
With Jeremy Clarkson's involvement, the site is sure to attract a lot of visitors. It is a popular destination, drawing people from near and far.
Source of image: PA Media
Clarkson, along with a group of camera operators, brought in fresh food to the pub before it officially opened.
Clarkson expressed contentment with the location of his new business. After considering 40 different pubs, he identified specific criteria such as ample parking space, easy access, and no narrow roads leading to the establishment.
"There's nobody to bother. It's a great location."
Talking about The Grand Tour, the show he presented with Richard Hammond and James May that just wrapped up filming, he pondered the possibility of them stopping by the local pub.
"James most likely won't do it, but Richard will," he mentioned.
I spoke with Richard just yesterday. We're friends and we plan to continue seeing each other.
Picture credit goes to PA Media
The inside of The Farmer's Dog is decorated with a farming theme, featuring an old tractor hanging from a ceiling beam.
However, he seemed unsure about whether his new business, which exclusively sells British goods, will be successful.
"I am not skilled in creating business plans and I have never made one," he remarked.
I am aware of this. When we take one of our pigs, slaughter and butcher it, then turn it into sausages and sell it here, the cost adds up to 74p.
"If I purchase pig meat that has been imported, it costs 18p. Clearly, there are issues within the food system of this country."
Clarkson mentioned that he intends to offer his own Hawkstone brand of beers and ciders, along with produce raised on his farm located nearby, for sale at the pub.
Source of the image, PA Media
The Grand Tour tent has been set up in the pub's outdoor area
The television personality has encountered resistance from residents in West Oxfordshire as he worked to grow his Diddly Squat farm initiative.
Several people living nearby are worried about the traffic issues that may arise due to the pub's location next to the bustling A40 road.
However, the Oxfordshire County Council stated that they had collaborated closely and taken proactive steps with Clarkson's team before the opening.
A council representative stated that multiple actions have been implemented to decrease the chances of traffic and parking issues, and to ensure the safe and successful launch of the location.
Clarkson took to social media to express gratitude towards the authority for their assistance.
Drivers are reminded to use designated parking areas instead of parking on the roads or grassy edges.
