Jeremy Clarkson Unveils Striking New Addition at His Cotswolds Pub

Jeremy Clarkson, the larger-than-life television personality and star of Clarkson’s Farm, has once again captured the attention of fans with the unveiling of a new feature at his Oxfordshire pub, The Farmer’s Dog. The pub, located in the picturesque village of Asthall near Burford, has become a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike since its grand opening in the summer of 2024. Already known for its vibrant atmosphere, locally sourced offerings, and stunning countryside views, the pub has now welcomed a bold new addition: a life-sized Highland cow sculpture crafted by renowned sculptor Hamish Mackie. This latest development further cements The Farmer’s Dog as a unique and evolving hub of rural charm and creativity.

A New Chapter for The Farmer’s Dog

The Farmer’s Dog, formerly known as The Windmill, was purchased by Clarkson for an estimated £1,000,000 and underwent extensive refurbishments before opening its doors to the public. The transformation of the pub has been a key storyline in Clarkson’s ongoing journey as a countryside entrepreneur, complementing his Diddly Squat Farm, the centerpiece of his hit Prime Video series, Clarkson’s Farm. The show, which follows Clarkson’s often humorous and heartfelt attempts to navigate the complexities of farming, has turned the 65-year-old former Top Gear host into an unlikely champion of British agriculture.

Since its opening, The Farmer’s Dog has become a magnet for visitors, drawing crowds eager to experience its unique blend of rustic hospitality and Clarkson’s unmistakable brand of charisma. The pub offers a range of attractions, including a pop-up Diddly Squat Farm Shop, where visitors can purchase produce from Clarkson’s farm, and Hops and Chops, a butcher’s shop specializing in locally sourced meats. The outdoor seating area provides breathtaking views of the Cotswolds countryside, while a pizza van and a Hawkstone merchandise store—showcasing Clarkson’s own craft beer brand—add to the lively atmosphere. The pub’s appeal lies not only in its offerings but also in its connection to Clarkson’s Farm, which has cultivated a loyal fanbase eager to immerse themselves in the world of Diddly Squat.

The Highland Cow Sculpture: A Bold New Feature

The latest addition to The Farmer’s Dog is a striking life-sized sculpture of a Highland cow, a nod to the agricultural heritage that underpins both the pub and Clarkson’s farm. Created by acclaimed sculptor Hamish Mackie, the sculpture was installed on the pub’s grounds in October 2025, adding a touch of artistic flair to the already vibrant venue. Mackie, known for his lifelike and dynamic wildlife sculptures, shared the news of the installation on Instagram, posting a video that captured the process of setting up the impressive piece.

In his post, Mackie expressed gratitude to Clarkson and his partner, Lisa Hogan, for allowing the sculpture to be exhibited at The Farmer’s Dog. “Today we installed Highland Cow Life Size 2025 at The Farmer’s Dog pub, where it is to be exhibited by kind permission of Jeremy Clarkson and Lisa Hogan,” Mackie wrote. “Thank you to all the team who so kindly helped us with the installation today, and to Wilcoteblooms who helped make it happen. Let us know if you spot it.” The post quickly garnered attention, with fans of both Mackie and Clarkson’s Farm sharing their excitement about the new addition.

The Highland cow, with its distinctive shaggy coat and imposing horns, is an iconic symbol of rural Britain, making it a fitting choice for the pub’s grounds. The sculpture not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of The Farmer’s Dog but also reinforces its connection to the agricultural themes that define Clarkson’s ventures. Its placement on the pub’s sprawling grounds ensures that it will be a focal point for visitors, offering a perfect backdrop for photographs and a tangible link to the farming lifestyle celebrated in Clarkson’s Farm.

Fan Reactions and Celebrity Sightings

The unveiling of the Highland cow sculpture has already sparked a wave of enthusiasm among fans, many of whom have flocked to social media to share their own photos of the new addition. The sculpture has proven to be a hit, with visitors capturing images of themselves alongside the striking piece. Adding to the excitement, two beloved stars of Clarkson’s Farm, Gerald Cooper and Alan Townsend, were photographed posing with the sculpture, further endearing it to fans of the series. Cooper, known for his dry wit and dedication to the farm, and Townsend, a key figure in the day-to-day operations, have become fan favorites, and their involvement in the sculpture’s debut has only amplified its appeal.

The sculpture’s arrival has also highlighted the collaborative spirit at The Farmer’s Dog. The installation was a team effort, with Mackie acknowledging the support of the pub’s staff and local business Wilcoteblooms, which played a role in bringing the project to fruition. This sense of community is a hallmark of Clarkson’s ventures, which often emphasize the importance of local partnerships and grassroots support.

The Broader Appeal of The Farmer’s Dog

The addition of the Highland cow sculpture is just one of many ways in which The Farmer’s Dog continues to evolve as a destination. The pub’s success can be attributed to its ability to offer something for everyone, from craft beer enthusiasts to families looking for a unique day out in the Cotswolds. The Hawkstone beer, brewed using barley grown on Diddly Squat Farm, has become a flagship product, with its crisp, refreshing taste earning praise from patrons. The pop-up farm shop allows visitors to take home a piece of Diddly Squat, with products ranging from jams and chutneys to fresh produce. Meanwhile, Hops and Chops caters to meat lovers, offering high-quality cuts sourced from local farms, in keeping with Clarkson’s commitment to supporting British agriculture.

The outdoor seating area, with its panoramic views of the rolling Cotswolds hills, has become a major draw, particularly during the warmer months. The pizza van adds a casual dining option, while the Hawkstone merchandise store allows fans to purchase branded clothing, mugs, and other memorabilia. Together, these elements create a multifaceted experience that goes beyond a traditional pub visit, making The Farmer’s Dog a destination in its own right.

Clarkson’s Cotswolds Legacy

The unveiling of the Highland cow sculpture comes at a time when Clarkson’s influence in the Cotswolds is stronger than ever. Clarkson’s Farm, now in its fifth season, continues to captivate audiences with its blend of humor, drama, and insight into the challenges of modern farming. The show has not only boosted tourism to the region but also sparked important conversations about the state of British agriculture, with Clarkson using his platform to advocate for farmers and rural communities.

The Farmer’s Dog represents a natural extension of this legacy, offering a space where fans can connect with the world of Clarkson’s Farm in a tangible way. The pub’s success is a testament to Clarkson’s ability to turn his larger-than-life personality into a thriving business, all while maintaining the authenticity that has endeared him to millions.

Looking Ahead

As The Farmer’s Dog continues to grow in popularity, the addition of the Highland cow sculpture is likely just the beginning of Clarkson’s plans to enhance the venue. The pub has already proven its ability to draw crowds, and with new features like the sculpture, it is poised to remain a key attraction in the Cotswolds. For fans of Clarkson’s Farm, the sculpture offers yet another reason to visit, providing a striking visual reminder of the rural lifestyle that Clarkson has embraced.

Whether enjoying a pint of Hawkstone, browsing the farm shop, or snapping a photo with the Highland cow, visitors to The Farmer’s Dog are sure to find plenty to love. As Clarkson continues to build his Cotswolds empire, one thing is clear: with his knack for combining humor, heart, and innovation, there’s no telling what he’ll come up with next.