Walking into Jeremy Clarkson's Cotswolds establishment The Windmill, I expected premium prices - but nothing could have prepared me for the reality of the bill that would soon land on my table.
The Clarkson Premium Price Experience
Nestled in the picturesque village of Burford, The Windmill has become something of a pilgrimage site for fans of the former Top Gear host and his Amazon series Clarkson's Farm. But this celebrity association comes with a hefty price tag that left this reporter genuinely astonished.
Drinks That Demand A Second Glance
The financial shock began immediately with the drinks menu. A simple Coca-Cola will set you back £7.50, while a pint of Amstel reaches £7.20. For those preferring something stronger, a single gin and tonic commands £14.50 - enough to make even the most seasoned London drinker raise an eyebrow.
Main Courses That Hit Harder Than A Lamborghini Tractor
The food menu continues the theme of premium pricing. Fish and chips - that most British of pub staples - costs a staggering £26. A burger reaches £24, while a Sunday roast will relieve you of £28 per person. These aren't just London prices - they're Mayfair-level costs in the heart of the Oxfordshire countryside.
What Exactly Are You Paying For?
The obvious question arises: is the food and drink quality commensurate with these eye-watering figures? While the ingredients are reportedly sourced from local suppliers including Clarkson's own Diddly Squat Farm, and the cooking is of good quality, many visitors report leaving with that distinct feeling of having paid significantly over the odds.
The Clarkson factor undoubtedly plays a role - you're not just paying for food and drink, but for the experience of dining in the television personality's establishment. The pub itself is charming, with classic Cotswolds stonework and comfortable interiors, but whether that justifies the premium remains debatable.
The Verdict: Worth The Splurge?
If you're a die-hard Clarkson fan with money to burn, The Windmill offers a pleasant enough experience with competent food and drink in attractive surroundings. However, for the average punter seeking a traditional pub meal, the prices may come as too much of a shock to the system.
As one local remarked, "You could feed a family of four at most other Cotswolds pubs for what one person spends here." The Windmill stands as a testament to the power of celebrity endorsement - and what people are willing to pay for a taste of it.
