Jeremy Clarkson’s newly opened pub, The Farmer’s Dog in Asthall, Oxfordshire, has received mixed reviews since its grand opening last week. While some hailed it as “the greatest pub in the world”, others were less enthusiastic.

The former Top Gear presenter unveiled his renovated and renamed establishment to the public on Friday, August 23. Hundreds of eager customers flocked to the venue, queuing for hours to sample the food and enjoy a pint of Hawkstone beer, served by Clarkson himself.

In anticipation of the large influx of visitors, Oxfordshire County Council stated that they had worked “closely and pro-actively” with Mr Clarkson’s team to ensure the local roads could handle the increased traffic. “Several measures have been taken to reduce the likelihood of traffic and parking related problems, and to support the safe and successful opening of the site,” a council spokesman said.

Clarkson expressed his gratitude to Oxfordshire County Council for their assistance in a post on X on Thursday evening. He wrote: “Credit where credit is due. Our new pub opens tomorrow and this might sound odd but I’d like to thank Oxfordshire County Council for all their help. We couldn’t have done it so fast without you.”

Despite the mixed reviews, the hard work and preparation from Jeremy, Lisa and their team seemed to pay off, with the majority of visitors leaving five-star reviews. Visitors have flocked to Google reviews paint a diverse portrait from five-star praise to one-star disappointment.

An enthused customer exclaimed, “The greatest pub in the world,” while another shared their admiration for its aesthetics and offerings – “Beautiful building, tasteful decor. Stunning views. Lovely people. Marvellous food.” Another review added a strong recommendation: “Great location, great selection of British produce and beer. Would highly recommend.”

Yet some patrons had grievances to air about Jeremy’s new establishment, highlighting the high prices and parking woes among one star critiques. A review highlighted teething troubles: “Car park was a churned up muddy mess on day 2. I think the whole place is work in progress and should be better when it’s finished. The Sausage and Mash portion is tiny and overpriced. Production line food which it has to be to cope with the sheer number of customers. Not for me but each to his own.”

Other feedback lamented the lack of catering for diverse dietary preferences: “Great idea and love the plan behind it. Disappointing to go and not find a single vegan option though. All for backing British farmers, but let’s go forwards rather than backwards. We grow some of the finest produce which can create incredible vegan dishes.”

A third provided a critique on cost: “The prices are extremely high. 14-15 pound for a small burger on a takeaway plate with no sides is quite pricey.”

Connoisseurs of classic British cuisine will find the fare at The Farmer’s Dog both varied and traditional, offering everything from bar nibbles such as sausage rolls and pickled eggs to full-scale mains like the Lancashire Hotpot, rounded off with sweet indulgences including Apple Crumble, served with cream or custard.

On their website, Jeremy fondly describes the establishment: “The first Hawkstone filling station. But it’s not just a pub. It’s also a restaurant. And in the garden, there’s a farm shop, and a butcher, and an off licence, and a bar and an outpost where you can grab a fantastic meaty snack to enjoy on the lawns. Children are welcome. So are dogs. Everyone is.”

Despite his busy schedule, Jeremy was very ‘hands-on’ during the day, even seen pulling pints for visitors and taking time out for a chat amidst filming for the media.

We have reached out to Jeremy Clarkson‘s team for comment.