Discover the Charm of Clarkson’s Farm: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Jeremy Clarkson’s Unexpected Farming Success
If you find yourself driving through Chadlington in the tranquil Cotswold region of England and spot an obnoxiously oversized and impractical Lamborghini tractor blocking the road, you’re not nuts. It’s most certainly former “Top Gear” star, Jeremy Clarkson. And while it may appear he is wreaking havoc, he’s actually been up to quite a bit of good. In his own words, “I did a thing!”
For those who haven’t watched, “Clarkson’s Farm” began as a sort of comedic docuseries about Jeremy and his no-nonsense girlfriend Lisa as they endeavor to start a successful farm. Along the way, viewers get to know friends like straight-shooting farming guru Kaleb, endearingly misunderstood (due to his accent) Gerald and, of course, “Cheerful” Charlie, who, despite being well-meaning, is nearly always the bearer of bad news.
While Jeremy has faced many trials and tribulations, especially with the ever-foreboding Council, after four seasons, farmers from all over the world agree he has done a great deal of good for the industry. Not only does the show represent the hardships of farming, specifically in the U.K., but it also humanizes farmers as people who deeply care about their land. Jeremy has started calling attention to the need for more local support and changes in overly complicated regulations.
I never thought a show about farming would turn into a comfort. With each new season, my home fills with laughter at the misadventures, worry when the crew is down on their luck, like the dreadful year of record-breaking rain, and cheers at the survival of runt pig, Richard Ham. The show doesn’t shy away from the good, bad or ugly. But that’s what makes it wholesome.
There are a few places fans can visit to feel like part of the Clarkson’s Farm family. You may even get to chat with Jeremy and other farm friends.
The Diddly Squat Farm Shop
The shop’s conception began when the farm accidentally produced over 40 tons of potatoes and has since been filled with other products straight from the farm, like Bee Juice Honey or Jeremy’s own Hawkstone beer and the “best hamburgers…in the world.” The shop sells only local products… well, mostly (don’t ask Lisa). On the same site, you can stop for a coffee, a Hawkstone and one of those burgers at the Big View Café.
The Farmer’s Dog Pub
In season four, Jeremy sifted through pub after pub to find a location for his latest brainchild. The Farmer’s Dog finally opened August 2024. It serves British-reared meat and pub classics made from locally sourced foods, along with Hawkstone Beer. If you can’t get a seat at the Farmer’s Dog, pop into the Farmer’s Puppy Bar and Kitchen for the same menu highlights. After your meal, you can stop at Hops and Chops, a butcher and bottle shop at the restaurant.
It seems each season showcases one of Jeremy and Lisa’s newest endeavors. Perhaps in season five, set to release Spring, 2026, we will see a Jeremy-proof tool line or Clarkson’s farm school.