Eager to explore the reality of Jeremy Clarkson’s well-known enterprise, I recently ventured to his Diddly Squat Farm Shop located at The Farmer’s Dog premises in the Cotswolds. The experience was quite different from what I had anticipated.
Ever since Clarkson appeared on our screens in 2021, taking on the challenge of managing his own farm in the Cotswolds, I became intrigued. Not being a die-hard Top Gear fan, I was drawn in by the immense operation showcased in Clarkson’s Farm and the myriad of obstacles they faced, hoping for their success.
The dynamic interactions between Jeremy, farmer Kaleb Cooper, and the memorable characters like Gerald Cooper, Charlie Ireland, and Lisa Hogan added to the appeal of the entertaining Amazon series.
During a weekend stay in the Cotswolds, a visit to Diddly Squat Farm Shop became a priority. While the main farm shop is in Chipping Norton, another Diddly Squat Farm Shop is situated in Burford, where The Farmer’s Dog, Clarkson’s popular pub and restaurant, attracts a full house every weekend.
Upon arrival at the location, I was surprised by the bustling car park, filled with Clarkson’s farm enthusiasts eager to experience the setting firsthand. As I entered the expansive site adorned with string lights under towering woodland, visitors were seen carrying Hawkstone’s beer crates and a variety of Clarkson merchandise.
The grounds were vast, offering an array of activities beyond The Farmer’s Dog establishment. The site now includes The Farmer’s Dough outdoor food van serving pizzas, and two bars serving Clarkson’s Hawkstone beer.
The presence of The Grand Tour tent, a nod to Clarkson’s previous ventures, added to the charm of the location. The tent featured a bar, a well-stocked butcher’s shop, and various merchandise outlets.
Visitors could explore Hops & Chops for The Farmer’s Dog merchandise and other items, while the Diddly Squat Farm Shop offered a wide range of products under Clarkson’s brand, from fresh produce to clothing and even quirky items like the ‘This smells like my boll**ks’ candle.
Clarkson has successfully created a welcoming space where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenic views. The expansive garden and outdoor seating areas provide ample space for guests to savor a Hawkstone beer and engage in activities like the traditional pub game of Aunt Sally.
During my visit, I sampled Hawkstone’s IPA, finding it impressive and a pleasant surprise. The bar menu also featured a variety of beverages, catering to different tastes.
What was meant to be a brief visit to the farm shop turned into a leisurely few hours spent exploring the diverse offerings and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere created by Clarkson’s farm. Despite the weather turning, visitors remained undeterred, seeking shelter under the garden umbrellas, making the most of their experience at Clarkson’s farm.
