Australian Formula 1 photographer and travel vlogger Kym Illman has visited Jeremy Clarkson's Cotswolds pub, The Farmer's Dog, on two occasions. While he praises the food and atmosphere, one aspect of the experience continues to irk him: the long wait between visits.
Second Attempt at The Farmer's Dog
Illman, who runs the YouTube channel Kym Illman Travel, first tried to visit the pub but missed out because he had not realised how far in advance bookings were required. On his second attempt, he successfully secured a table and sampled the menu. The pub, located in the idyllic Cotswolds, is run by former Grand Tour star Clarkson alongside his Diddly Squat Farm.
Food Review: Steak Pie Steals the Show
Illman started with the £13 buffalo mozzarella salad, which he described as on the "small side" but "very fresh," with "beautiful" mozzarella. He then enjoyed a "very tasty" soup and sourdough. For the main course, he and his guest ordered two steak pies at £26 each and a Cotswold sausage for £22. Illman gave the pie a score of 9.1 out of 10, saying: "First mouthful. Oh, I love it. I absolutely love it. This is not a traditional meat pie you get in Australia at a bakery. This is elevated. This has got a beautiful red wine taste to it." He added that the mashed potatoes were "lovely" and called the food "food that makes me happy." The sausage was described as "well above average," though he admitted he would "rather" have the pie.
Atmosphere and Clientele
Illman noted that the pub attracts "normal, run-of-the-mill people" rather than "high-flyers with big wallets." He observed visitors from all over the world, all drawn to the venue. The total bill for two people came to around £140, including six plates of food, a glass of white wine, a bottle of mineral water, and a 12.5 per cent tip. Illman declared it the best lunch he had eaten in Britain.
The One Thing That Irks Him
Despite his glowing review, Illman shared one frustration. He said: "So, is The Farmer's Dog overrated? No, I love the place, and I can tell you every one of these thousands that come here every day will say the same thing. Yes, you're going to have to fork out a few dollars, but if you want quality food and a great experience, it's going to cost you money. I've been to this place twice, and what irks me a little bit is that I'll probably have to wait another year to come back for my third visit."
