Since opening last year, Jeremy Clarkson’s pub The Farmer’s Dog has quickly gained attention—not just for its food but also for its unusual menu policies. While many customers have praised the venue for its quality and unique atmosphere, others have been left confused and frustrated by what’s missing from the menu.
A pub with a strict British-only policy
The Farmer’s Dog takes pride in championing British farmers by serving exclusively British produce. This commitment, while admirable, means that some familiar condiments and staples are notably absent from the menu. Items like ketchup, Coca-Cola, Pepsi, lemonade, coffee, and even common seasonings such as pepper are not available, leaving some diners scratching their heads.
Several patrons have taken to reviews to express their dissatisfaction. One reviewer lamented the limited drink options, saying, “Drinks are limited, no cola, Pepsi, lemonade or coffee,” while another shared their experience of being refused pepper: “(I) asked for some pepper and was told, ‘sorry no!!’” For some, this strict approach proved too much—one diner admitted, “Ate 3 mouthfuls and that was enough.”
Others acknowledged the principle behind Clarkson’s choices but still found the restrictions extreme. One customer told the Daily Mail, “I really missed pepper and coffee. It was strange not to have a coffee after my meal, and I always have pepper on my veg.” Despite understanding Clarkson’s desire to support local goods, the absence of these staples felt like an unnecessary hardship for some.
Costly principles and a pricey reputation
Clarkson’s unwavering commitment to local sourcing hasn’t come without financial consequences. According to Clarkson himself, the insistence on British-only ingredients has raised food costs significantly. Writing for The Times, he revealed that the prices at The Farmer’s Dog don’t fully reflect the true cost of sourcing local produce.
“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,” Clarkson admitted. However, instead of hiking prices to cover these costs, he chose to keep prices closer to what an average pub in the Cotswolds might charge—even if that means losing around £10 per customer.
Clarkson’s candid admission highlights the tension between his ideals and the realities of running a profitable business. This has made The Farmer’s Dog a topic of much debate, with fans respecting his principles but critics questioning the practicalities.
Controversy continues beyond the menu
The pub’s strict approach and pricing are not the only source of chatter. Earlier this year, Clarkson stirred controversy when a viral video showed a meat pie at his farm shop priced at an eye-watering £199.99. The clip, narrated by The Skeptics Take, humorously highlighted the extravagance of the pie and the overall pricing at the farm shop and pub.
The video began with footage of The Farmer’s Dog sign and a visitor walking through the farm shop, revealing some of the steep prices. It even mentioned that visitors must pay £2 to park in a muddy field, adding to the overall experience—and the controversy.
In addition to the pricey pies, the video showed other items like a Christmas candle branded with the cheeky label, “This smells like my Christmas balls,” priced at £22. The large pies varied from £46.15 to the outrageous £200 for the extra extra large option. This social media attention has added another layer to the public’s curiosity and divided opinions on Clarkson’s latest venture.
Balancing passion with practicality
Jeremy Clarkson’s The Farmer’s Dog may be polarising, but it undoubtedly reflects the TV presenter’s personality and values—unapologetically British and committed to supporting local farmers. While some diners appreciate the ethos and quality behind the menu, others find the lack of familiar comforts and high prices a sticking point.
The pub’s bold stance on sourcing and pricing is a rare business approach in today’s market, challenging the norms of what a casual pub experience typically offers. Whether this gamble pays off in the long run remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: The Farmer’s Dog has carved a unique place in the world of British dining, sparking plenty of conversation along the way.
