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When Jeremy Clarkson opened Diddly Squat Farm Shop near Chadlington, he put a quiet corner of the Cotswolds firmly on the global map. With the addition of his pub, The Farmer’s Dog in Asthall near Burford, Jeremy’s domination of the Cotswolds is well and truly underway – visitors are flocking from all over the country (and the world!) to sample Hawkstone lager, buy a jar of Bee Juice, and experience this gorgeous part of the world in real life.
However, if you think you can just nip into either place for a quick browse or pint, you would be sadly mistaken. A day out to Clarkson’s corner of the world requires a little bit of tactical planning.
Here is our insider, stress-free guide on how to visit both locations, beat the crowds, and make the absolute most of your trip!
Diddly Squat Farm Shop
A Cotswolds-based emporium of edible delights and potatoes
Located near Chipping Norton, this is where it all started. The shop stocks everything from Hawkstone cider to “Cow Juice” and local produce (as well as plenty of tongue-in-cheek merchandise).
Pro-Tip
Check the official social media channels before setting off, as opening days can vary depending on farming operations and filming schedules.
The Best Time to Visit
Arrive early – ideally 15 to 20 minutes before the shop opens at 9:30 AM, or pop by mid-afternoon (around 3:00 PM) when the morning surge has cleared. Weekdays are significantly quieter than weekends.
Parking & Access:
Parking is available on-site in the official farm field, but it can get muddy after rain, so wear sensible footwear or wellies and bring an umbrella. Do not park on the narrow country lanes outside, as local traffic enforcement is strict.
What to Expect
Queues for the main farm shop can easily stretch to an hour or more during peak times. If you just want a Hawkstone beer, a coffee, or a hot food item from the Farmers’ Barn at the back, there is usually a separate, much faster queue.
Stay nearby?
The rural Cotswolds await at Churchill House where the have views across to Stow on the Wold.-
Charlbury The Fold
4.9/5A serene, dog-friendly Cotswold retreat for four with stylish interiors, a woodland terrace, and local walks. -
This hidden-away garden sanctuary has a beautifully furnished and spacious open-plan ground floor and a sumptuous bedroom.
The Farmer’s Dog
A monument to British farming
Clarkson’s pub, set on a hilltop overlooking the Windrush Valley, focuses heavily on 100% British produce, local ales, and proper pub grub.
Dogs & Families
The pub is very dog-friendly and has expansive outdoor seating with glorious countryside views, making it a great spot for a relaxed afternoon.
Navigating Reservations
The pub strictly releases reservations on the first of every month at 9am, and tables fill up fast! If you’re planning to dine inside the pub itself a booking will be required prior to your visit.
Outdoor Food & Tent
If you’re visiting without a booking for the main pub, head to The Grand Tour Tent and garden area. The Farmer’s Puppy serves irresistible burgers, The Farmer’s Grill offers delicious meats with flatbread, while The Farmer’s Dough sells fresh pizzas. Paired with a Hawkstone draught served outdoors, missing out on a pub reservation still leaves you with an array of top-quality options.
Farm shop
There is a mini Diddly Squat Farm Shop located in the Grand Tour tent – if you can’t make it to Diddly Squat and The Farmer’s Dog in one day, this is a good way to sample both!
Our Top Tips
If you are eating, arrive hungry! The portions are generous. The menu is not particularly child-friendly, so you may want to avoid with (younger) fussy eaters.
Stay nearby?
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Burford Old Manse
4.8/5Enjoy country walks from the door when you stay at this gorgeous and stylish home from home. -
Minster Lovell Japonica
4.9/5Perfect for country walks, trips to the pub and exploring the Cotswolds, Japonica is a charming historic cottage. -
Burford Farthingdales
4.8/5Exquisitely furnished and decorated home in the heart of Burford’s medieval quarter, with a wood burning stove and a hidden garden.
The Full Clarkson Experience
Diddly Squat Farm Shop and The Farmer’s Dog are roughly a 20-minute drive apart, connected by beautiful Cotswold backroads. If you have enough time and decide you want to do both, this is entirely feasible!
The Ideal Itinerary
Start your morning early at Diddly Squat Farm Shop to grab your merchandise and farm goods before the noon crowds hit. From there, take the scenic drive south down toward Burford, arriving at The Farmer’s Dog just in time for a late lunch and a pint of Hawkstone on the terrace.
After a day of exploring the bustling sites of Diddly Squat, there is nothing better than escaping back to your own private haven. Our hand-picked and exclusive properties near Chipping Norton and Burford offer peaceful countryside settings, deep soaking tubs, and fully equipped kitchens—perfect for cooking up any delicious local treats you picked up at the farm shop.
Or venture a bit further and explore the wider delights of the Cotswolds. From the idyllic riverbank walks of the Windrush Valley to the golden-stone high streets of Stow-on-the-Wold and Bourton-on-the-Water, you are perfectly placed for discovery. Spend your mornings discovering hidden farm stands and historic market towns, take afternoon strolls through quiet country lanes, and return home to a quiet evening under starry rural skies.