James May, former Top Gear and The Grand Tour co-host, has stepped into a new role—as a pub owner. His Wiltshire pub, The Royal Oak, is not only up and running but thriving, thanks to a focus on local ingredients and a commitment to community. Speaking with Radio X’s Chris Moyles, May revealed that despite slim margins, the pub is now profitable and self-sustaining.
“It wasn’t just a business move— it was a selfless act to preserve an important local institution,” May joked, explaining his motivation. With many pubs across Britain closing or facing redevelopment, May feared his local community would lose their nearby gathering spot. After purchasing the pub, the COVID-19 pandemic forced an immediate closure, but The Royal Oak soon reopened to a warm welcome.
However, there’s one notable exclusion on The Royal Oak’s menu: Jeremy Clarkson’s beer. When asked if the pub stocks Clarkson’s own brews, May firmly said no. Instead, May’s establishment proudly offers his own artisan creation: James May Gin.
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This slight snub extends beyond the bar. May suspects he won’t be invited to The Great British Farm-Fest, the large farming celebration set for May 2026 at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, hosted by Clarkson. May expressed bemusement that Clarkson chose a venue away from his own Diddly Squat Farm to hold the festivity. “Isn’t that like having a party at someone else’s house?” he quipped.
There’s also a history of friendly rivalry: May has been barred from Clarkson’s pub, The Farmer’s Dog—possibly because The Royal Oak outshines it in Tripadvisor ratings. Reflecting on past conversations about running pubs during their Top Gear days, May is unfazed by being excluded from Clarkson’s venue. “Being barred from his place is like being barred from a golf club. I didn’t want to go anyway!” he said.
In contrast, May welcomes all at The Royal Oak, proud of the pub’s lively, inclusive atmosphere where debate and disagreement thrive—true to a traditional British pub’s spirit. He happily promotes the pub’s “superb range of gins,” with his own label featured prominently.
If an invite to Farm-Fest doesn’t come, May plans to buy tickets like anyone else when they become available in November. Meanwhile, the event promises appearances from many notable guests, including farmers, chefs, musicians, and other artisan producers.