The Farmer’s Dog, Jeremy Clarkson’s pub with character in Oxfordshire.
Address: Asthall Barrow, Burford, Oxfordshire, OX18 4HJ.
On our latest outing, we had the pleasure of visiting The Farmer’s Dog, Jeremy Clarkson’s relatively new pub. Clarkson, of course, is well known as a television presenter, journalist, farmer and author. I’ll admit, I’m not his biggest fan, but I must say our dinner at The Farmer’s Dog was exceptional.
Delving into its history, the building was originally constructed as a barn for the local farm, before being converted into a pub called The Windmill in 1983. In 2024, Clarkson reportedly purchased the property for under £1 million and rebranded it as The Farmer’s Dog.
The pub exudes that quintessential English country charm: stone walls, rustic beams and a lively buzz spilling out of the doorway. Yet a few eccentric touches remind you this is not just any pub – this is Jeremy Clarkson’s pub. For example, a tractor dangles from the ceiling above. Outside, the space is vast and split into two sections: a decked terrace with comfy chairs and blankets for chilly evenings, and a sprawling beer garden that can easily hold more than a hundred guests. The countryside views are stunning.
The food was superb, the service prompt, the staff both professional and welcoming, and the atmosphere vibrant yet wonderfully relaxed – all the right ingredients for a popular spot. Booking, however, is a real challenge. A tip: reservations open on the first of each month for the following month, so, for instance, we secured our September table on 1 August.
The menu is built entirely around ingredients sourced from British farms. This does mean there are a few things you won’t find at The Farmer’s Dog, which you’re warned about before stepping inside.
- No Coca-Cola: Instead, only British-made soft drinks are offered.
- No Coffee: In keeping with the “British only” rule, no coffee is available, though Cornish tea is served.
- No Black pepper: Initially excluded as the UK-sourced version was prohibitively expensive.
- No Ketchup: Not on offer, as no fully British ketchup could be sourced.
What we ordered: Steak pie with mash, carrots, seasonal greens and Hawkstone gravy (£24); Spring chicken and smoked pork sausage casserole (£21); Poached rhubarb crumble cake with Cotswold cream ice cream (£10.50); Summer fruit pudding (£10.50). The menu changes with the seasons, so do check the website before your visit.
Dogs at The Farmer’s Dog
Dogs aren’t merely tolerated here – they’re part of the experience. Winnie was brought a bowl of water, though sadly no treats.
Opening times
11:00 – 23:00, Tuesday to Sunday.
Parking
There is a generous car park, free for guests. Be warned, however – it can get very muddy, so high heels are best avoided!
Website
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