In a move that will delight fans of classic British television and proper pints alike, motoring icons Jeremy Clarkson and James May are officially entering the pub trade. The beloved duo, famed for their decades on Top Gear and The Grand Tour, have set their sights on the picturesque market town of Watlington, Oxfordshire.
Their new venture, a traditional pub named The Rising Sun, promises to be a bastion of British pub culture, focusing on the core essentials: good conversation, excellent food, and finely poured ale.
A Proper Pub, The Clarkson-May Way
Forget gastropubs with overpriced small plates. Clarkson and May's vision is a return to form. The establishment will proudly operate on a 'no music' policy, a deliberate choice to encourage the lost art of conversation among patrons. The focus will be squarely on serving high-quality, traditional pub fare and a stellar selection of real ales and fine wines.
The pair have confirmed that their infamous co-host, Richard Hammond, is not involved in the project. It seems the trio's on-screen rivalry extends to their business ventures, leaving 'The Hamster' to his own devices.
From Screen to Scene: The Watlington Transformation
The pub itself is currently a work in progress, with the charismatic presenters having purchased the freehold of the existing building. Their ambition is to transform it into a quintessential British local that they themselves would want to drink in. The location in the Chiltern Hills offers a serene and idyllic setting, a world away from the roaring race tracks they are more commonly associated with.
This isn't Clarkson's first foray into the world of hospitality. He has already found monumental success with his Diddly Squat Farm Shop and the accompanying hit Amazon Prime series, Clarkson's Farm. James May, too, has his own ventures, including a shop in nearby Swallowfield.
What Can Patrons Expect?
Prospective customers can look forward to:
- A traditional, no-frills atmosphere perfect for a quiet pint.
- A menu featuring classic British pub classics and potentially produce from Clarkson's own farm.
- A strict policy against loud music or televisions, ensuring a tranquil environment.
- The undeniable possibility of spotting the famous owners pulling a pint behind the bar.
While an official opening date is yet to be confirmed, the project is generating significant buzz. For locals and fans planning a pilgrimage, The Rising Sun in Watlington is poised to become a must-visit destination, offering a unique blend of celebrity and authentic British pub culture.
