The Farmer’s Dog

Imagine classic English coziness with a touch of media charm: that is exactly what The Farmer’s Dog looks like. This traditional pub and restaurant, located near the town of Brize Norton, has become a real sensation in the United Kingdom thanks to its owner — the famous Jeremy Clarkson. The establishment occupies a converted historic barn, where rugged brick walls and massive wooden beams blend harmoniously with soft leather armchairs and the warmth of fireplaces.

The Farmer’s Dog. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

One of the main highlights of the interior is the suspended chrome tractor — a gift from Richard Hammond, which literally soars under the ceiling above the piano. The pub is positioned as a place that celebrates the hard work of British farmers: a strict rule applies here — exclusively British products are used in the menu. From meat and vegetables to butter and flour — everything is grown and produced on local farms, making every meal here an act of support for national agriculture.

The complex's territory goes far beyond a typical bar. There is a huge tent, familiar to viewers of "The Grand Tour," which houses additional services: from a butcher's shop to a boutique selling the signature Hawkstone beer. This is not just a food outlet, but a full-fledged entertainment hub with panoramic views of the Cotswold hills, attracting thousands of tourists with its sincere atmosphere and high-quality cuisine.

For more details before your visit or to book a table (if provided for by the establishment's current rules), you can use the official contact information. It is recommended to check the information in advance, as the popularity of the location may affect service availability.

A visit to The Farmer’s Dog is a complete gastronomic and cultural experience. First, it's worth stopping by the restaurant itself to try dishes prepared from 100% British ingredients: legendary bangers and mash, juicy meat pies, or steaks. At the bar, be sure to sample the signature Hawkstone beer or cider, which have become the hallmark of Clarkson's farming projects.

For shopping enthusiasts, several unique locations are open on-site. At the Hops & Chops butcher shop, you can buy the freshest cuts, and at the branch of the famous Diddly Squat farm shop, you can find farm delicacies and souvenirs. A separate drinks boutique offers a wide selection of merchandise: from stylish jumpers to unusual snacks like pickled eggs. If the weather permits, head to The Farmer's Puppy outdoor kitchen for quick bites.

Be sure to take time to appreciate the interior details: find that very tractor under the ceiling and take a photo in front of "The Grand Tour" tent. Outdoors, you can simply sit on the benches, enjoying the tranquility of rural England and panoramic views of the fields. If you're lucky, you might even meet Jeremy Clarkson himself, who often drops by the pub to chat with guests and personally check the quality of service.

The easiest way to reach The Farmer’s Dog is by car, as it is located right at the Asthall Barrow roundabout on the busy A40. The drive from Oxford takes about 30–40 minutes, while the picturesque town of Burford is just a few minutes away. There is a large free car park on-site, where dedicated marshals help manage traffic flow even on the busiest days.

If you prefer public transport, you can take a bus to Burford and then catch a taxi — the ride takes no more than 10 minutes. The nearest railway stations, such as Kingham or Shipton-under-Wychwood, receive trains from London, but will also require a transfer by bus or taxi.

The journey along the A40 is a pleasant experience in itself, offering classic views of the Cotswold hills. Given the establishment's high popularity, tourists are advised to arrive early to avoid entrance queues and ensure a parking space.

The history of the building that houses The Farmer’s Dog today began long before its television fame. Originally, it was a spacious historic barn belonging to a large farm. During the Second World War, the site served humanitarian purposes: the famous Mitford sisters organized a soup kitchen here to provide food for those in need.

In 1983, the barn found new life as The Windmill pub. Owners Alan and Jackie Walker transformed it into a prestigious venue for banquets and weddings, utilizing the magnificent 15th-century vaulted hall. However, after 2013, the establishment fell into decline and stood abandoned for a long time, gradually falling into disrepair and losing its former luster.

A new chapter began in 2024 when the famous TV presenter Jeremy Clarkson purchased the property for less than a million pounds. The entire process of the massive renovation and the transformation of "rat-infested ruins" into a modern gastropub was captured in the fourth season of the show "Clarkson's Farm." The official opening under the new name took place on August 23, 2024, becoming a major event for the entire region and attracting hundreds of fans of British farming.

To fully experience the atmosphere of the establishment, it is recommended to set aside 2 to 4 hours. This is enough time to enjoy a leisurely lunch in the main hall, explore the farm shops, and take a walk around the grounds while admiring the views of the hills.

If you plan to visit The Farmer’s Dog on weekends or bank holidays, it is worth allowing extra time for potential queues, which are not uncommon here. For true fans of Jeremy Clarkson's work, a visit could easily last half a day, considering the opportunity to shop at the Diddly Squat shop and relax in the complex's outdoor areas.

The opening hours for The Farmer’s Dog pub may change depending on the season, so it is highly recommended to check the establishment's official website before your trip. Generally, the main restaurant and bar are open from Tuesday to Saturday from 11:00 to 23:00, and on Sunday, the doors close slightly earlier at 22:30. The establishment is often closed on Mondays or operates on a reduced evening schedule.

Please note that additional locations on the grounds, such as the Diddly Squat farm shop, the butcher's shop, and the outdoor kitchen in the tent, usually operate on their own schedules — primarily from Wednesday to Sunday from 09:30 to 16:30. Plan your visit so that you have time to visit all the areas of the complex that interest you.

A visit to this pub in Oxfordshire is a great excuse to explore the surrounding area, which is famous for its pastoral beauty and traditional English charm. The proximity to picturesque villages makes it easy to combine a gastronomic getaway with local sightseeing.