Express readers have voted overwhelmingly for Jeremy Clarkson's documentary series Clarkson's Farm as the best farming show on British television, dealing a devastating blow to the BBC's long-running Countryfile.
In a Daily Express poll published in June, readers were asked: 'What's your favourite farming show on British TV?' The options included Clarkson's Farm, Fletchers' Family Farm, Our Farm Next Door: Amanda, Clive and Kids, and Countryfile. A total of 1,562 votes were cast, with one show emerging as a clear frontrunner.
Clarkson's Farm Dominates the Vote
A staggering 1,428 readers selected Clarkson's Farm as their favourite, representing over 91% of all votes. The Amazon Prime Video series follows the former Top Gear host as he attempts to run a 1,000-acre farm in the Cotswolds. Since its launch in 2021, the show has become a huge hit, with its fifth season debuting in June 2026.
In second place was Fletchers' Family Farm, starring former Emmerdale actor Kelvin Fletcher and his family in the Peak District. The show, which debuted on ITVX in 2023, received 57 votes.
BBC's Countryfile Suffers Heavy Loss
In a significant setback for the BBC, Countryfile garnered only 52 votes, placing third. The programme, which has been on air for 18 seasons since its debut in 1988, provides insight into larger issues affecting British life through investigations of specific areas. Despite its decades-long run, it failed to compete with the popularity of newer farming shows.
Our Farm Next Door: Amanda, Clive and Kids came fourth with 25 votes. The More4 series, which debuted in 2024, follows Amanda Owen—known as the Yorkshire Shepherdess—and her family as they renovate a derelict farmhouse in the Yorkshire Dales. Amanda previously starred on Channel 5's Our Yorkshire Farm, which was cancelled after her separation from Clive Owen. A spin-off, Beyond The Yorkshire Farm: Reuben & Clive, focusing on their son, was later released.
Poll Results Highlight Viewer Preferences
The poll results underscore the shifting landscape of farming television, with audiences gravitating toward personality-driven, modern takes on rural life. Clarkson's Farm has been particularly praised for its blend of humour, authenticity, and insight into agricultural challenges. According to the Daily Express, the show's victory was a clear indication of its resonance with viewers.
The BBC has not yet commented on the poll results. However, the network may need to reassess its approach to farming programming as newer, more dynamic shows capture public attention.
