If you’re heading to Jeremy Clarkson’s countryside pub expecting a classic burger-and-Coke combo, you might want to read the fine print first.
Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, The Farmer’s Dog has been a popular stop for foodies and fans of the former Top Gear host alike—but not everyone leaves with a full stomach or a smile.
A Pub That Plays by Its Own Rules
Since opening its doors last year, Clarkson’s pub has earned plenty of praise for its mission to support British farmers.
Everything served on-site is sourced from within the UK—no exceptions.
That means you won’t find international staples like Coca-Cola, ketchup, or even pepper on the menu.
While Clarkson has made it clear he’s sticking to this hyper-local business model to highlight homegrown produce, not all customers have taken kindly to the strict policy.
Some have been caught off guard by what’s not available, and they haven’t held back in online reviews.
Guests Vent About Missing Favorites
One disgruntled diner took to the internet to complain, saying, “Drinks are limited, no cola, Pepsi, lemonade or coffee.”
Another chimed in after being denied a simple seasoning request, writing, “I asked for some pepper and was told, ‘Sorry, no!!’ I ate three mouthfuls and that was enough.”
Even those who were generally pleased with their meal couldn’t help but notice the absence of certain comforts.
One reviewer said, “Sadly, they do not have pepper or coffee—both items I really missed.
It was strange not to have coffee after my meal, and I always have pepper on my veg.”
They did mention respecting Clarkson’s philosophy, but admitted the approach felt a bit “extreme.”
Why Clarkson Is Willing to Lose £10 Per Guest
So why is Clarkson so firm on sticking with only British produce—even if it means losing money? According to a column he wrote for The Times, the cost of local-only ingredients is steep.
In fact, by his own admission, he loses around £10 per customer.
Clarkson joked about the situation, saying, “Now, a business-minded person would look at these costs and realise that with British-only rules in place, a hotdog was going to be priced at about £45.”
But instead of adjusting his sourcing or raising prices sky-high, he did something… very Clarkson.
He asked an AI to figure out the average cost of lunch at a Cotswolds pub—and just charged that.
The Infamous £200 Pie Shocks Fans Online
But the real sticker shock came earlier this year, when a viral Instagram video spotlighted a meat pie selling for a whopping £199.99 at Clarkson’s Diddly Squat farm shop.
The clip, narrated by The Skeptics Take, begins with a shot of The Farmer’s Dog pub sign before revealing the massive “extra, extra large” pie inside the shop.
“Enough pie to throw at your neighbour for 200 quid,” the voiceover joked. And while the giant version costs nearly £200, even the standard large pies come in at a hefty £46.15.
A Muddy Field and Overpriced Candles Add to the Drama
The same video, clearly meant to entertain and provoke, pointed out that visitors must fork over £2 for parking—in what’s described as a “muddy field.”
Once inside, guests are treated to what the narrator calls “an array of overpriced souvenirs that will end up in your bin.”
One of the standout items? A festive candle labeled, “This smells like my Christmas balls”—yours for just £22.
The video pans over stacks of branded goods and novelty items, all with a hefty price tag that left some viewers more amused than impressed.
What’s Next for Clarkson’s Farm-To-Fork Adventure?
Despite the criticism, Jeremy Clarkson seems unmoved.
He’s clearly committed to his all-British, no-compromise approach—even if it means a few bad reviews and a financial loss.
For fans of his outspoken style and dry humour, that stubborn streak is all part of the charm.
As for the rest of us? Maybe bring your own pepper. And maybe skip the £200 pie—unless you’re really hungry.