The Farmer’s Dog, a pub owned by the renowned former Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson, has been facing major criticism from some of its customers, with some stating that they will not be returning to the establishment. The pub, located near Burford, Oxfordshire, has been open for six months and offers a unique, very British experience in the heart of the Cotswolds. However, Clarkson has implemented strict rules, such as banning items like coffee, lemonade, and ketchup from being served in his pub.
Despite its popularity and the fact that Sunday dinner slots are booked up a month in advance, some customers have expressed disappointment with their experiences at The Farmer’s Dog. One customer from BirminghamLive noted a strict time limit during their visit, while reviews on TripAdvisor show that out of 275 customers, 70 have rated their experience between “average” to “terrible”. Issues such as visible rubbish in the car park, mediocre food quality, and unsatisfactory toilet conditions have been highlighted by dissatisfied customers.
Concerns have also been raised about the parking facilities at The Farmer’s Dog, with customers like Anna C labelling it a “waste of time” due to being directed to an overflow car park that was muddy and difficult to navigate, especially for wheelchair users. Some customers have expressed discontent over the prices at the establishment, noting that while the emphasis on British-sourced ingredients is commendable, the quality of the food does not always justify the higher costs.
On the other hand, there have been positive reviews from patrons who have enjoyed their experiences at The Farmer’s Dog. Customers like Alex Ward have praised the quality of the food and service, despite some negative feedback on platforms like TripAdvisor. Timothy S and Mark B also commended the pub for its value for money and excellent service, with Mark going as far as comparing the food to that of a renowned chef.
In an interview with MailOnline, Jeremy Clarkson acknowledged the high operating costs of his establishment and expressed uncertainties about ever making a return on his £1 million investment in the pub. Despite the challenges faced, Clarkson remains committed to sourcing only British ingredients for The Farmer’s Dog, which has influenced pricing decisions. The menu features items like the ‘Sausages of the Day’ at £18 and the ‘Steak Pie’ priced at £20, with higher-end options for steak enthusiasts.
Overall, while The Farmer’s Dog has garnered both praise and criticism from customers, Jeremy Clarkson continues to uphold his standards for British authenticity in the pub’s offerings. The controversy surrounding the establishment serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by even well-known figures in the hospitality industry and the importance of balancing quality with customer expectations.