Jeremy Clarkson, former Top Gear and The Grand Tour presenter, is no stranger to controversy.
From his public spats with other celebrities both physical and digital to his explosive exit from the BBC and his rebirth as a champion of countryside issues, he’s as busy in the headlines as he is on the screen.
When it comes to his telly chops, however, the man rarely puts a foot wrong. Clarkson’s Farm, the Amazon Prime series following his abrupt career change from petrolheading to animal rearing and crop tilling, has been a runaway hit.
Not content with wrestling with one incredibly difficult countryside vocation, season four of the show sees Clarkson work to restore and open a nearby village pub.
The Farmer’s Dog, located in Asthall near Burford, opened in August 2024 to much fanfare, with queues around the village from the early hours.
It’s remained busy ever since, serving almost exclusively British-sourced food and drink. Exceptions are made for some pub essentials like the quinine in tonic water, but by and large you can expect that the majority of quids spent in the Farmer’s Dog are supporting British businesses.
With a focus on local sourcing, however, comes a premium. It’s often cheaper to import ingredients, drinks and the like from overseas, so serving mostly British-grown products means menu prices might be a bit dearer than what you’d expect in your local ‘Spoons.
Unfortunately for Clarkson, this little fact of local supply chains has rubbed some visitors up the wrong way on social media.
One disgruntled user commented: “Thought @JeremyClarkson wanted an affordable pub for customers. £24 for pie and veg is a bit much.”
Clarkson swiftly countered: "Have you seen beef prices right now? If you could make it for less, I'll give you a job.”
It didn’t wash with some. "Your cows aren't they Jeremy?" remarked another.
"Some are,” Clarkson replied. “Most come from other farmers in the area and we pay a premium. We are here to back British farming. If you don't want to do that, fine. Enjoy your chlorine."
Another X user labelled the prices as 'f****** extortionate'.
On the FOODBible Facebook page, however, Clarkson has got more defenders than he might think.
“Hmmm he bought a broken down pub that went broke and made it into a profit-making pub that buys only local, I am thinking that's smart,” said one comment.
“Who's complained?” asked another. “£20+ is about standard for a main course in any pub-restaurant these days. I guess someone who doesn't go out that often, or only goes to the local pub who still keeps pies in a hot counter at the end of the bar.”
Another chimed: “I was watching Clarkson’s Farm last night, and I said to my husband I'd be happy to pay a bit more knowing it was supporting the local co-op of farmers that are supplying the pub, and knowing it's coming from them directly. If you don't like the prices just don't go!! I wish more places did this and supported local farmers and producers. Keep it British.”
“I don't blame Clarkson for charging £20 plus for locally sourced and made pies,” agreed another. “If it keeps the pub turning a profit and the doors open when so many other places close, more power to him.”
As much as Clarkson’s got a knack for ruffling feathers, he’s always had legions of loyal supporters to even the odds.
Featured Image Credit: Carl Court / Staff/Getty ImagesTopics: Celebrity, TV and Film
Rachael Davis