Nestled in the Cotswold village of Asthall near Burford, The Farmer’s Dog is a pub that has drawn attention for its association with Jeremy Clarkson’s farming empire. Refurbished for around £1 million, it opened as a Clarkson-branded gastropub promising a “proper British pub” experience built on British-reared meat, local produce, and Hawkstone beers brewed on the Diddly Squat Farm estate. The pub operates a seasonal, farm-to-table menu that aims to source nearly everything from British farms.
Since its opening, the pub has accumulated a mix of user reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor and Trustpilot, as well as blog and Reddit discussions. Diners often highlight the quality of the food, the dog-friendly attitude of the staff, and the scenic Cotswolds setting. But with limited official information available online, questions about booking, opening hours, and the exact nature of Clarkson’s involvement remain.
This article brings together verified facts from multiple sources to give a balanced picture of what The Farmer’s Dog offers, how it is reviewed, and what potential visitors should know before they go.
What Is The Farmer’s Dog Pub?
- The Farmer’s Dog has garnered strong positive reviews on TripAdvisor, with emphasis on quality food and scenic views.
- The pub is notably dog-friendly, accommodating multiple dogs according to Reddit and other reviews.
- The menu exclusively features British farm produce and includes Hawkstone products (associated with Jeremy Clarkson).
- Reviews on Trustpilot are limited (74 reviews) but generally positive, highlighting the pub’s support for British farmers.
- Independent blog reviews from Gary Eats and Girl About Travel give scores around 8.5/10 and praise the lamb shawarma and steak pie.
- Several reviewers note limited vegetarian options and higher‑than‑average prices, though they consider the quality justifies the cost.
- Booking in advance is strongly recommended due to high demand, especially at weekends.
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| TripAdvisor rating | Described as “very good quality” with high review volume |
| Number of Trustpilot reviews | 74 (as of mid‑2025) |
| Location | Asthall, Burford, Cotswolds |
| Menu focus | British farm produce, seasonal, Hawkstone drinks |
| Dog-friendly | Yes – dogs welcomed, fussed over, and given treats |
| Associated celebrity | Jeremy Clarkson (via Clarkson’s Farm and Hawkstone cider) |
| First known blog review | June 2025 (Girl About Travel) |
| Refurbishment cost | Approximately £1 million |
| Popular dishes cited | Steak pie, lamb shawarma, roasts, burgers |
| Payment options | Credit cards accepted, gift cards available |
Is The Farmer’s Dog Pub Dog-Friendly?
Multiple independent sources confirm that The Farmer’s Dog is exceptionally dog-friendly. The official website states “Four‑legged friends welcome.” TripAdvisor reviews repeatedly describe dogs being greeted warmly, with staff offering sausages and even watching over pets while owners ate. A Reddit user who visited with two Dobermans reported that the pub “accommodated them amazingly.” No restrictions on dog size or breed were noted in the available reviews.
What do reviewers say about bringing dogs?
Reviews from TripAdvisor, Reddit, and the Girl About Travel blog all emphasise that dogs are not just tolerated but genuinely welcomed. One guest noted that their dog received a sausage and staff reassured them they would keep an eye on their pet. The pub is listed as dog‑friendly on TripAdvisor, and the atmosphere is described as relaxed and pet‑inclusive.
Are there any restrictions for dogs?
No specific restrictions were mentioned in any of the reviewed sources. However, it is advisable to confirm with the pub when booking, especially if visiting during busy periods or with multiple dogs.
Based on user reports, the pub staff are attentive to dogs and may offer extras like sausages. Consider reserving a table and mentioning you’ll bring a dog, though reviews suggest it is not required.
What’s on the Menu at The Farmer’s Dog?
The menu is seasonal and changes based on availability, but consistent themes emerge from reviews and the official site. It is built around British-reared meat, with pork, beef, lamb, venison, dairy, eggs, vegetables, fruit, and even cooking oils sourced from UK farms. Jeremy Clarkson has stated that only a few exceptions are made for ingredients that cannot be grown or produced in Britain.
Does the menu focus on British farm produce?
Yes. The pub’s concept is summarised on its website as “serve brilliant food and drink made as close to home as possible, backing British farmers at every turn.” The Girl About Travel blog noted that the menu “only includes food that can be produced on British farms.” This farm‑to‑table ethos is central to the dining experience.
Is Hawkstone cider available?
Yes. Blog and YouTube reviews confirm that Hawkstone beers (lager and dark ale) and Caleb’s Hedgegrow Cider are served. Hawkstone is a brand closely associated with Jeremy Clarkson and Diddly Squat Farm, reinforcing the Clarkson link.
Recurring dishes mentioned by multiple reviewers include steak pie (often singled out as a standout), lamb shawarma described as “beautifully presented and bursting with flavour,” and burgers similar to those at the Diddly Squat Farm Shop. Starters such as baked brie, ham croquette, and carrot‑honey soup have also been noted. Some reviewers wished for a condiment like mustard with the pork pie, but overall the food quality receives high praise.
What Do Reviews Say About The Farmer’s Dog?
Across TripAdvisor, Trustpilot, Reddit, and independent blogs, the overall sentiment is strongly positive. The pub’s association with Jeremy Clarkson undoubtedly drives curiosity, but most reviewers focus on the food quality, service, and setting.
What are the TripAdvisor highlights?
TripAdvisor reviews emphasise “very good quality and lovely decor,” friendly staff, and stunning views from the back. Popular dishes include steak pie, roasts, and lamb shawarma. The photo gallery on TripAdvisor shows a tractor hanging from the ceiling and scenic Cotswolds views. Booking via reservations is strongly recommended due to high demand.
What do Trustpilot reviewers say?
Trustpilot shows 74 reviews as of mid‑2025, with an overall positive sentiment. The pub is described as “brilliant food and drink made as close to home as possible.” Some reviews mention parking difficulties and prices being on the higher side, but most accept those as reasonable given the quality and provenance.
What do Reddit users report?
A Reddit thread from 2025 asked “Anyone actually eaten at the farmer’s dog? How was…” and the responses were positive. One user with two Dobermans praised the accommodation by staff. The atmosphere was described as busy but not rushed – a sign that the pub manages demand well.
Food blogger Gary Eats rated The Farmer’s Dog 8.5/10, praising the lamb shawarma, pork pie, and the beautiful countryside setting. Girl About Travel also gave a glowing review in June 2025, highlighting the Hawkstone cider and the tractor hanging from the ceiling.
How to Book and Visit The Farmer’s Dog?
Practical information is scattered across sources, and the official website remains the most reliable point of reference. Below is what has been pieced together from reviews and the site.
How do I make a reservation?
Booking is available through the pub’s website (thefarmersdogpub.com). Multiple TripAdvisor reviews recommend booking in advance because tables are hard to secure, especially on weekends. Walk‑ins may be possible but are not guaranteed.
What are the opening hours?
Opening hours are not explicitly provided in the reviewed sources for the main pub restaurant. However, the related Farmer’s Puppy bar, tent, and shop areas operate Tuesday to Sunday 9:30 am – 5:30 pm, with the kitchen open 9:30 am – 3:00 pm. Visitors should check the official website for the main pub’s evening hours.
Are there photos of the interior and surroundings?
Yes. TripAdvisor and the Girl About Travel blog feature interior photos showing a tractor suspended from the ceiling, rustic decor, and expansive Cotswolds views from the back. These images give a clear sense of the pub’s aesthetic.
Key Events in The Farmer’s Dog’s Recent History
The exact opening date of The Farmer’s Dog is not confirmed. However, the following timeline of events is known:
- Unknown (likely 2024/2025): Opening of The Farmer’s Dog pub after a reported £1 million refurbishment of a former pub building in Asthall.
- June 2025: First published blog review by Girl About Travel, offering detailed photos and menu descriptions.
- Ongoing 2025: Reviews accumulate on TripAdvisor, Trustpilot, and Reddit, with the majority praising food quality and dog‑friendliness.
No earlier reviews or media coverage have been found, so the pub likely opened no earlier than late 2024.
What Do We Know for Sure About The Farmer’s Dog?
Some details are well-established from multiple sources, while others remain unclear. The table below separates confirmed facts from open questions.
| Established information | Information that remains unclear |
|---|---|
| The Farmer’s Dog is a real pub in Asthall, Burford, Cotswolds. | Exact ownership details – Jeremy Clarkson’s level of involvement is not officially confirmed. |
| It is dog-friendly (reported by multiple sources). | Opening date not listed in available sources. |
| The menu focuses on British farm produce and includes Hawkstone cider. | Menu prices and hours of operation not reported. |
| Reviews are generally positive. | Number of covers/popularity vs. availability of walk‑ins. |
How Does The Farmer’s Dog Fit Into the Cotswolds Dining Scene?
The Cotswolds is a popular tourist area with many traditional pubs and gastropubs. The Farmer’s Dog distinguishes itself through its direct association with Jeremy Clarkson’s farming show and brand. This celebrity link likely drives higher demand and media coverage compared to typical local pubs. The farm‑to‑table concept also aligns with current consumer preferences for local and sustainable dining. While other pubs in the region may offer similar British fare, the Clarkson connection adds a layer of curiosity and marketing reach that few competitors have.
What Are People Saying About The Farmer’s Dog?
A selection of quotes from different sources captures the range of opinions and the key themes.
“Very good quality and lovely decor. The staff are great, really friendly and helpful. The views from out the back are amazing.”
TripAdvisor snippet
“I loved The Farmer’s Dog menu which only includes food that can be produced on British farms, the Hawkstone cider and the tractor hanging in the ceiling.”
Girl About Travel blog
“Food was good, staff were great, it was busy but not rushed, and we had 2 dogs (dobermans) with us that they accommodated amazingly.”
Reddit user
“The Farmer’s Dog is a pub built around a simple idea: serve brilliant food and drink made as close to home as possible, backing British farmers at every turn.”
Trustpilot description
Is The Farmer’s Dog Worth Visiting?
Based on the available reviews and verified facts, The Farmer’s Dog appears to deliver a high‑quality dining experience in a scenic Cotswolds setting. The food is consistently praised, the staff are attentive, and the dog‑friendly policy is genuine. Prices are on the higher side, but most reviewers feel the quality and provenance justify the cost. The main downsides are limited parking and the need to book well in advance. For fans of Clarkson’s Farm, the pub adds a layer of novelty, but even without the celebrity link, the culinary offering stands on its own. Read more in our guide to The Farmer’s Dog TripAdvisor reviews for the latest user ratings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do Trustpilot reviews say about The Farmer’s Dog?
Trustpilot has 74 reviews (as of mid‑2025). General sentiment is positive, with the pub praised for its support of British farmers and quality food. Some reviews may include minor criticisms, but the overall rating is favorable.
Are there photos of The Farmer’s Dog pub interior?
Yes, photos are available on TripAdvisor and blogs like Girl About Travel. The interior features a tractor hanging from the ceiling, rustic decor, and scenic Cotswolds views from the back.
What is Jeremy Clarkson’s exact role in the pub?
The input sources indicate a strong association: the menu features Hawkstone products (his brand) and the pub is often called ‘Jeremy Clarkson’s pub’. However, official ownership documents are not available in the reviewed sources.
Can I park at The Farmer’s Dog?
Parking information is not provided in the available reviews. It’s advisable to check the pub’s website or contact them directly before visiting.
What dishes are most recommended by reviewers?
The steak pie is frequently singled out as a standout. Lamb shawarma, roasts, and burgers are also popular. Starters like baked brie and ham croquette receive positive mentions.
Is the pub suitable for families with children?
Yes, TripAdvisor mentions highchairs are available. The atmosphere is welcoming, though the focus on British meat may mean limited vegetarian options for picky eaters.
Does The Farmer’s Dog serve alcohol?
Yes, it offers a range of Hawkstone beers (lager and dark ale), Caleb’s Hedgegrow Cider, wines, and soft drinks. The drinks menu highlights Clarkson’s own brands.
How do I find The Farmer’s Dog pub?
It is located in Asthall, near Burford, in the Cotswolds. The exact address is not listed in the reviewed sources, but the pub can be found on Google Maps and TripAdvisor.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options?
Some TripAdvisor reviews note that vegetarian options are limited but adequate. The menu is heavily meat‑focused; vegans may have fewer choices. It is best to check the seasonal menu on the website.
Can I buy gift cards for The Farmer’s Dog?
Yes, TripAdvisor lists gift cards as one of the available facilities. Details are likely on the pub’s official website.
For a closer look at the menu and dog‑friendly details, see The Farmer’s Dog menu and dog‑friendly features.
Related stories
Rebecca Haines is Managing Editor at Headlines UK, running the daily news list, commissioning and headline review.