Clarkson’s Pub Closed? The Surprising Reason Behind His Sudden Decision.
Clarkson makes a surprising change to The Farmer’s Dog to prioritize staff wellbeing after social media exchange
A Fan’s Request Sparks a Big Decision
Jeremy Clarkson has made a major change to the opening hours of his Cotswolds pub, The Farmer’s Dog, following a fan’s polite — yet pointed — plea on social media.
The former Top Gear and The Grand Tour presenter, 65, originally launched the pub in August last year after investing £1 million and undergoing an extensive renovation. Located in Asthall, Oxfordshire, the venue has since attracted both locals and international celebrities, including a surprise visit from Ellen DeGeneres.
But a recent online interaction sparked a fresh twist in the pub’s story.
“Can You Open Earlier?”
Over the weekend, one hopeful fan reached out to Clarkson via X (formerly Twitter), writing:
“Can you open your pub for me about six hours earlier on Monday, please? I was going to visit but didn’t realise you don’t open until 5pm.”
Clarkson replied cheekily:
“Mondays are when our brilliant staff catch their breath.”
But behind the humor was a deeper reflection on his team’s workload.
Clarkson Gives His Team Mondays Off
Rather than adjusting Monday’s hours, Clarkson took it a step further. He decided to close the pub entirely on Mondays, giving his staff a dedicated day to rest and recharge.
An official statement from The Farmer’s Dog Instagram page confirmed the update:
“We are giving our team Mondays to spend some well-deserved time recharging — we will be open Tuesday to Sunday in both the pub and the Grand Tour tent.”
The post was accompanied by a cheerful photo of the pub staff smiling in front of the venue.
Website Updated, Fans React Positively
The change has now been reflected on the pub’s official website, which lists Mondays as “closed” in the opening hours section.
Fans praised the move online, calling it a “classy gesture” and a “rare example of a boss putting people before profits.”
Chaos at Opening Foreshadowed the Need
Viewers of Clarkson’s Farm Season 4 will remember the chaotic opening of The Farmer’s Dog. In the series finale, filmed in August 2023, the pub was overwhelmed with crowds, and technical setbacks forced the closure of both the kitchen and toilets. Customers were turned away as the launch descended into a logistical mess.
The episode highlighted the pressure placed on Clarkson’s team — making his new decision to close on Mondays feel not only wise but necessary.
A New Tradition at The Farmer’s Dog
With this change, Clarkson sets a thoughtful precedent in an industry known for grueling hours. While fans may have to adjust their plans to avoid Mondays, many agree: giving hardworking staff a full day off is a move worth raising a pint to.
