Fancy trying out Jeremy Clarkson’s famous pub, The Farmer’s Dog? It’s all the rage thanks to Clarkson’s Farm, but there were a few surprises during my visit. As a northerner, I’ve got high standards for what makes a good English pub!
Firstly, spontaneity isn’t an option here. To grab a table, you need to book at least a month in advance, as spots disappear quicker than Oasis tickets! We only managed an 8:45pm booking on a Tuesday. Arriving early didn’t help either; we were politely made to wait for our exact time.
And the vibe? More restaurant than pub. While the food was delicious, and service lightning-fast, the meal was over in under an hour! Unlike your typical cosy pub experience, there were no fireplaces or game areas to unwind. Clarkson’s place also lacks any screens, so no cheering on your favourite team with a pint in hand.
Moreover, it’s missing those homely pub bits like a darts board or a telly for the footy. Instead, it’s filled with various other attractions like a butcher, burger shack, and ice cream shop. With its picturesque setting, it feels more like a tourist hotspot.
The Farmer’s Dog is worth a look for any Clarkson fan and is a delightful evening out. But if you’re expecting the classic pub tradition, this might not hit the spot. Still, for a bite under Oxfordshire skies, it’s perfect, as long as you don’t mind booking ahead!