Pubs, Pints, and Pub Owners: The Allure of Celebrity-Owned Watering Holes

In the quaint Cotswolds village of Burford, Oxfordshire, the recent opening of a new pub owned by renowned TV personality Jeremy Clarkson has sparked a mix of excitement and consternation among locals. As the Gardners, a family of devoted Clarkson fans, make the pilgrimage to experience the Farmer's Dog, the village's residents grapple with the influx of crowds and the perceived high prices. This article delves into the rich history of celebrity pub ownership, exploring how famous faces from the worlds of entertainment, sports, and even crime have left their mark on the local watering hole.

Pubs, Personalities, and the Pursuit of the Perfect Pint

The Clarkson Effect: Burford's Divided Reaction

The Farmer's Dog, Clarkson's latest venture, has elicited a mixed response from the residents of Burford. While some locals have embraced the opportunity to rub shoulders with the celebrity and enjoy the pub's offerings, others have expressed concerns about the influx of crowds and the perceived high prices. The Gardners, a family of Clarkson devotees, made the 130-mile journey from Tiverton to Oxfordshire, eager to experience the pub and capture the moment with photographs of the "Diddly Squat" team. However, not all Burford residents share their enthusiasm, with some complaining about the pub's busyness and the lack of booking options, which they feel prevents locals from enjoying the establishment.

A Tradition of Celebrity Publicans

The Farmer's Dog is not the first time a famous face has put their name and resources behind a local pub. Clarkson follows in the footsteps of his former Top Gear colleague, James May, who owns a country pub with rooms in Swallowcliffe, Wiltshire. The Royal Oak, May's establishment, has received praise for its culinary offerings, including a chateaubriand of Wiltshire beef and Wiltshire venison loin with pickled blackberries. While the pub attracts a mix of clientele, including some "braying Hooray Henrys [sic] and Henriettas," it is generally well-regarded by the local community.

The Enduring Appeal of Celebrity Pubs

The allure of celebrity-owned pubs is not a new phenomenon. Throughout history, pubs have been associated with various high-profile individuals, from prize fighters in the Georgian era to underworld figures like the Kray twins in the 20th century. These establishments have often become hubs of activity, drawing crowds and attention based on the fame of their owners. Pubs historian Paul Jennings notes that there has always been a strong correlation between trades known for heavy-drinking cultures and later-life careers as publicans, with the likes of professional footballers, career criminals, and members of the armed forces finding themselves drawn to the pub trade.

The Pub as a Passion Project

In recent years, the trend of celebrity pub ownership has continued, with stars from the worlds of film, music, and sports investing in local watering holes. Guy Ritchie, the renowned filmmaker, opened Lore of the Land in Fitzrovia, serving beers from his own craft brewing company, the Gritchie Brewing Company. Similarly, singer-songwriter James Blunt purchased the Fox and Pheasant in Chelsea, which has become a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike. Ed Sheeran and his business partner, Stuart Camp, own a Portobello Road foodie pub named Bertie Blossoms, while Little Mix's Jade Thirlwall manages Arbeia Bar in her native South Shields, offering a lively atmosphere and a range of cocktails and local bands.

The Impact on House Prices

The arrival of a celebrity-owned pub can have a significant impact on the surrounding area, as evidenced by the surge in house buyer interest in Burford following the launch of the Farmer's Dog. With the average asking price in the area standing at £537,827, the influx of Clarkson fans and the pub's growing popularity have the potential to drive up property values, much to the delight of local homeowners.

The Enduring Allure of the Local Pub

Despite the challenges faced by the pub industry, the allure of the local watering hole remains strong, particularly when a famous face is involved. Whether it's the Gardners' eagerness to experience the Farmer's Dog or the locals' mixed reactions, the pub continues to hold a special place in the hearts and lives of communities across the country. As the Gardners plan their return to the Farmer's Dog for a Christmas roast, the enduring appeal of the local pub, and the celebrities who own them, is sure to continue captivating the public's imagination.