Jeremy Clarkson and James May's 'bitter pub row' escalates after star's brutal move

James May and Jeremy Clarkson are in competition
-Credit: (Image: (Image: PA))


Jeremy Clarkson, the man behind 'Clarkson's Farm', has made his foray into the pub scene with the launch of The Farmer's Dog in the idyllic Cotswolds village of Asthall, causing quite the stir as locals and fans alike flock to the venue. Meanwhile, James May, known as one of the iconic trio from 'The Grand Tour', isn't far behind with his own establishment The Royal Oak in Swallowcliffe, Wiltshire.

Known for their friendly rivalry, May has already thrown down the gauntlet by introducing a dog menu at his country pub which is being talked about for its 'cheap as chips' prices, contrary to some complaints about the higher costs at Clarkson's. Committed to using only British produce, Jeremy has curiously banned ketchup, coffee, and Coca-Cola from his premises.

On the other hand, James May is catering to canine customers by rolling out dog-friendly meals such as lavish Sunday roasts, "bark bangers", and even special treats like Bark Brew beer or chicken and passionfruit flavoured Paw Star Dog Martinis.

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Recently, it was highlighted by May that the secret ingredient to the success he shares with co-stars Jeremy Clarkson and Richard Hammond on The Grand Tour may be their "mutual loathing" of each other. An insider disclosed to Express.co.uk that there's an intense rivalry brewing between May and Clarkson, with each aiming to create the most buzz-worthy pub in the countryside.

"While it's thought that Jeremy was making a joke about the pub's early reputation as a dogging site when he came up with the name The Farmer's Dog, James interpreted the theme more literally and responded with an entire dog food menu.", reports the Express.

"Some people see James' pub as the wholesome, more innocent version of Jeremy's wordplay, with his Paw Star Martini option - non-alcoholic of course - for dogs."

The source added: "It means people can take their pets to the pub with them without worrying they're being cruel and leaving them out when dining."

James has been able to create a buzz around his 18th-century tavern situated in a quaint Wiltshire hamlet, not far from two magnificent medieval fortresses, thanks to his award-winning dining experience.

His Royal Oak beef burger, just slightly less costly than any of Jeremy's main dishes, boasts an assortment of tasty toppings such as smoked bacon, gem lettuce, tomato chutney, pickles, and fries.

Yet, this months seasonal fare at James establishment notably lacks a classic bangers and mashunless one counts the bark bangers on offer for canine companions.

This leaves Jeremys £19 bangers and mash with scant competition at least for the moment.

With less than two hours drive separating the two establishments, aficionados of Top Gear and The Grand Tour might just venture out to visit both taverns but which will come out on top?