Jeremy Clarkson has reportedly purchased a village pub in the Cotswolds for £1 million. The acquisition follows the success of his 1000-acre Diddly Squat farm and its accompanying shop. The Windmill in Asthall is set to be transformed into a prestigious destination under Clarkson's ownership, with the process documented in a new television series.
Prior to this venture, Clarkson invested in beer production near his farm on the outskirts of Bourton-on-the-Water. He recently announced the launch of a special edition summer beer exclusively available for Hawkstone members, known as Hawstonians. At 64, Clarkson has already ventured into pig breeding and farming through his Prime Video show, Clarkson's Farm, which has been well-received by viewers.
However, it remains to be seen if he will enjoy similar success in the pub industry. According to The Daily Mail, Clarkson faces stiff competition from other popular A-list establishments in the Cotswold area. Among these is Soho Farmhouse, a private members club offering a taste of country living.
This upscale establishment was founded by Nick Jones, husband of BBC presenter Kirsty Young, who sold 80 per cent of the club to Richard Caring, reports . Situated in Great Tew, Oxfordshire, Soho Farmhouse was built on a derelict farm and vacant cattle shed. It offers bedrooms starting from £295 per night, farm huts, and five restaurants.
Soho Farmhouse, often referred to as the 'Beverly Hills' of the Cotswolds due to its popularity among celebrities including the Beckhams, has seen a rapid rise in popularity. Another celebrity favourite stretching from London to the Cotswolds is Estelle Manor, an outpost of Mayfair's Maison Estelle, located in Eynsham, Oxfordshire. The Georgian Grade II-listed manor house sits on an 85-acre estate and offers a brasserie, Roman-inspired spa, and a night in the woodland cottage for £2,500 among other accommodations.
The Wild Rabbit in Kingham, owned by Lady Bamford, is known for celebrating 'traditional British cooking'. It also offers a cosy retreat and an outdoor gym. The Bull in Burford, owned by multi-millionaire PR guru Matthew Freud, whose ex-wife was Rupert Murdoch's daughter, boasts 18 bedrooms and four restaurants, including the Hiro restaurant with its 14-course tasting menu.
Freud is also reportedly set to open another Cotswold pub, The Highway, also in Burford, which promises a 'stripped back luxury' vibe and authentic Cotswold charm. It remains to be seen whether Clarkson's new venture will join the ranks of these upmarket Cotswold pubs..
