Jeremy Clarkson’s pub has quickly become the most popular watering hole in the UK within just 18 months of its opening. Following a lengthy period of planning and unforeseen obstacles, Clarkson finally secured the green light to launch the pub in 2024, with the entire process showcased on his hit reality show, Clarkson’s Farm.

Meanwhile, James May, Clarkson’s former Top Gear co-host, also owns a pub in the UK, albeit with less fanfare. Located a mere two hours away, May’s cozy establishment prompted us to embark on a comparison visit to determine which pub reigned supreme.

Our journey commenced with a visit to James May’s pub nestled in the quaint village of Swallowcliffe in Wiltshire, a stone’s throw away from Salisbury and a brief half-hour drive from Stonehenge. The charming pub, named The Royal Oak, serves as a perfect stopover post a leisurely dog walk. Despite being under May’s ownership, the pub exuded a welcoming vibe, attracting locals keen on enjoying a casual drink with friends.

Our culinary adventure at The Royal Oak began with a delectable bread slate featuring an assortment of homemade bread, tantalizing spiced hummus, and savory salted butter. The crispy feta paired with figs and pesto stole the show, offering a delectable start to our meal. Moving on to the mains, we savored the classic beer-battered fish and chips, flawlessly executed with hand-cut chips, seasoned mushy peas, and a side of tartare sauce.

Additionally, we sampled the pub’s twist on a burger and fries, elevated with gorgonzola rarebit, lyonnaise onions, and mustard mayonnaise, along with a comforting butternut squash and artichoke risotto. The sumptuous fare was not only a treat for the taste buds but also budget-friendly, with starters priced under £10 and mains at £20 per dish, ensuring accessibility for all patrons.

Notably, there is one indulgence on James May’s menu that comes with a hefty price tag: the locally sourced Chateaubriand of Wiltshire beef, priced at £85 per serving. Despite its premium cost, this dish remains a highlight for discerning diners seeking a luxurious culinary experience.

The Royal Oak emerged as a beloved haunt for both locals and tourists, offering a laid-back atmosphere and swift access without the prolonged wait times experienced at Jeremy Clarkson’s pub. Post-indulging in the delectable offerings at The Royal Oak, we embarked on a two-hour drive to Clarkson’s renowned establishment.

Contrasting with the cozy ambiance of James May’s pub, securing a reservation at Clarkson’s Farmer’s Dog proved to be a daunting task, necessitating a booking six weeks in advance. Even with meticulous planning, we could only secure a late evening reservation, a testament to the pub’s overwhelming popularity.

Upon arrival at the Farmer’s Dog, we explored the expansive premises, which included various outbuildings catering to diners seeking a casual meal at The Farmer’s Puppy, offering a menu of burgers and light bites. The outdoor pub featured merchandise from Clarkson’s Farm, allowing patrons to purchase branded items while enjoying the scenic surroundings.

Before our meal, we savored a glass of fizz while admiring the picturesque views of the Oxfordshire countryside. Despite the late booking, we made the most of our evening, indulging in shopping at Bicester Village outlet before returning to the pub.

Clarkson’s pub boasted a prime location, offering a plethora of activities in Oxfordshire for patrons to explore while awaiting their table at The Farmer’s Dog. The establishment’s scenic setting, coupled with a bustling atmosphere, provided a captivating backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience.

In conclusion, our comparison of the two pubs revealed that Jeremy Clarkson’s establishment outshone James May’s pub in terms of overall experience and culinary offerings. While The Royal Oak excelled in affordability and quality, The Farmer’s Dog boasted a unique charm and sought-after ambiance, making it a top choice for avid fans.

Although Jeremy’s pub lacked certain traditional pub elements such as sofas, fireplaces, and TV screens, it compensated with its upscale restaurant-like ambiance. Ultimately, both pubs offered distinctive experiences, catering to different preferences and setting the stage for an enjoyable culinary journey.