Jeremy Clarkson, renowned television presenter and motoring journalist, has openly admitted that “things are pretty terrible” concerning the future of his business ventures. Best known for his work on Top Gear and The Grand Tour, Clarkson reached new heights of popularity with his Amazon Prime series, Clarkson’s Farm.
In 2024, Clarkson expanded his enterprise by opening The Farmer’s Dog, a pub located in Asthall near Burford, Oxfordshire, designed to complement his Diddly Squat Farm. However, he describes the current outlook for this venture as “pretty bleak,” citing escalating business rates as a significant challenge.
Drawing parallels with fellow celebrity chef Tom Kerridge, Clarkson highlighted the steep rise in various operational costs. Kerridge’s burger restaurant in Marlow is facing an increase in business rates from £50,000 to £124,000 annually, motivating him to question the viability of continuing operations. Clarkson’s pub is facing a similar but slightly less severe hike—from £27,250 to £55,000—alongside an additional £42,000 yearly in wages due to national insurance increases.
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Clarkson pointed out the impossibility of transferring these increased costs to customers, who themselves contend with soaring expenses such as a £2 billion gas bill, compounded by stricter drink-driving regulations limiting visits.
Despite these financial strains, Clarkson recently won a planning dispute that confirmed parking arrangements at The Farmer’s Dog, providing 170 spaces for patrons. The pub has grown in popularity since featuring on his Amazon Prime show, bringing in crowds that prompted the West Oxfordshire District Council to ensure off-road parking availability and reduce roadside traffic risks.
The former Windmill pub, purchased by Clarkson for £1 million in 2023, includes five acres, supporting his vision of an intimate yet accessible countryside venue.
Alongside his professional challenges, Clarkson also shared candid insights into his personal health. He revealed that medication he is taking is “eating” his muscles but admitted reluctance to take active measures to combat this side effect. Writing in the Sunday Times, Clarkson reflected philosophically on human nature and self-discipline in the face of health and lifestyle goals, referencing his use of the weight loss injection Mounjaro. He acknowledged the necessity of lifestyle changes to “counteract” medication impacts but remains conflicted about fully committing to these adjustments.
At 65, Clarkson’s frank discussion highlights the ongoing struggles of balancing business pressures and personal well-being, offering a rare glimpse into the realities behind his public persona.