When my parents announced their upcoming visit from Sweden to England, I knew exactly where to take them: Jeremy Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm Shop. Although I had never been before, the countless hours my father and I spent watching Top Gear assured me he would appreciate the experience.
Our journey from Worcestershire took just over an hour. Driving on the left proved a bit stressful for my mother, but we arrived safely and quickly found parking in a nearby field just a short walk from the shop.
Despite arriving 90 minutes after opening, the parking was plentiful. However, the long queue to enter the quaint farm shop was unmistakable — we joined the line at the back, hopeful it would move swiftly. The sunny weather brightened the day but also meant the queue was exposed to the blazing sun, which left my dad and me with sunburn despite our sunscreen.
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One downside was the lack of shade anywhere near the queue. On such a hot day, I think the farm should consider some form of sun protection—perhaps a marquee—for visitors waiting outside.
Nearby, a table featured fresh, local produce such as vibrant strawberries, colourful courgettes, spring onions, and broccoli. There was also a ‘cow juice’ milk vending machine selling milk from local farms, though unfortunately it was out of order during our visit.
The shop itself was smaller than I expected but packed with quality local products: meats, cheeses, Hawkestone ciders and lagers, and even Diddly Squat gin. The queue system encouraged brisk browsing, so I didn’t get to explore as fully as I wanted, especially tempted by the sausage rolls. But I did pick up some gin for my granddad’s birthday, an empty branded milk bottle, piccalilli pickle, and a fridge magnet. My parents bought roasted coffee and a handmade honey soap bar.
Initially skeptical, I left pleasantly surprised at what the farm shop had to offer. Feeling hungry, we decided to try the bar behind the shop, which I had heard positive things about.
The menu was simple, focusing on burgers and breakfast items. However, the food exceeded expectations. I chose a halloumi burger cooked to perfection, with roasted aubergine, harissa mayo, chilli, and tomato chutney creating an amazing flavour combination. My parents opted for the ‘Big View’ burger—an aged beet patty topped with cheddar, homemade sauce, caramelised onions, and pickles—which they thoroughly enjoyed.
More than a week later, I’m still thinking about that burger. It might just be one of the best I’ve ever had. The shorter queue for the bar compared to the shop makes me eager to return soon. I highly recommend a visit to Diddly Squat Farm Shop—not just for the products, but for the unforgettable food experience too.