Can You Conquer the Big Ugly Burger Challenge at This Gloucestershire Pub?

Think you can wolf down a typical burger and fries in under 30 minutes? What if we told you that the patty alone weighs over two pounds and the bun is the size of a dinner plate? Would you still be up for the challenge?

The Farmers Boy Inn in Longhope, nestled in the Forest of Dean, has been serving up The Big Ugly Burger challenge for a remarkable 14 years, drawing in patrons from far and wide to test their mettle against this monstrous meal.

Held on the last Thursday of every month, the Big Ugly Burger challenge has become a beloved tradition at this award-winning pub, thanks to the brainchild of its owner, Philip Kiernan, 53. Inspired by the popular Man vs Food series, Kiernan sought to create a formidable meal that not only attracted crowds but also delivered on quality.

“It was my idea for us to create the Big Ugly Burger and make it a challenge. Man vs Food was a big thing then, and people looked forward to watching it on television. I came up with the idea for the burger challenge at the pub,” shared Kiernan.

Pulling off this gastronomic feat involves coordinating with the pub’s butcher to craft a patty equivalent to eight or nine quarter pound burgers and ensuring the baker could create buns large enough for the task.

As Kiernan explained, “My chef puts it all together with chips, salad, and onion rings, ready for the customer. It costs £30, with £10 of it required as a deposit. If the customer manages to polish off this colossal concoction, they receive the meal for free.”

The anticipation of seeing individuals step up to tackle the Big Ugly Burger challenge keeps Kiernan and his team eager for each event.

If the wait until the last Thursday of the month seems excruciating, eager participants can arrange for a Fat Ugly Burger by contacting the pub at least 48 hours in advance, ensuring that the chef will have the challenge prepared upon their arrival at the Farmers Boy Inn.