James May's country pub, The Royal Oak in Swallowcliffe, Wiltshire, has been declared superior to Jeremy Clarkson's The Farmer's Dog in a head-to-head comparison by a food reviewer. The former Top Gear co-hosts both own pubs in the UK, but the reviewer found May's offering more accessible and affordable.
The Royal Oak, located in a tiny hamlet near Salisbury, impressed with its homemade bread slate, crispy feta with figs and pesto, and classic beer-battered fish and chips. Mains were priced at £20 per dish, with starters under £10, making it a budget-friendly option. The reviewer praised the hand-cut chips and seasoned mushy peas, noting the pub's traditional fare was executed with care.
In contrast, Clarkson's The Farmer's Dog in Oxfordshire required a six-week advance booking, with the only available slot at 8.45pm on a Tuesday. The reviewer described it as harder to get a table than for Oasis tickets. While the pub offers extensive grounds, including a burger stall called The Farmer's Puppy and merchandise, the wait and exclusivity were drawbacks.
The reviewer concluded that May's pub, which attracts both locals and tourists without the long queues, provided a more relaxed and satisfying experience. The only expensive item on May's menu was a Chateaubriand of Wiltshire beef at £85, which the reviewer skipped. Overall, The Royal Oak was deemed the winner for its quality, value, and accessibility.
