Jeremy Clarkson purchases The Windmill pub in Cotswolds
- Jeremy Clarkson, known British broadcaster and writer, acquires The Windmill pub in the Cotswolds.
- The ex-Top Gear host paid less than £1 million for the esteemed establishment near Burford, Oxfordshire.
- Clarkson hints at plans to revamp the pub and introduce new offerings to the local community.
Renowned television personality Jeremy Clarkson has unveiled ambitious plans to open a traditional British pub in the Cotswolds, expanding his successful Clarkson’s Farm enterprise. The 64-year-old has acquired The Windmill, a rural country pub in Asthall, near his 1,000-acre Diddly Squat Farm and Hawkestone Lager brewery, for under £1 million. The pub, tentatively named ‘The Clarkson’s Arms’, is set to offer a unique experience in a picturesque setting, aiming to revitalize the struggling pub industry which Clarkson believes is in decline with over a thousand closures annually. The historic 15th-century venue, previously known for hosting weddings and banquets, is undergoing a transformation under Clarkson’s ownership. Plans include renovating the establishment with classic pub amenities like bar billiards, dominoes, and darts, while maintaining a nostalgic 1970s Yorkshire-inspired menu devoid of modern beverages like coffee and Coca Cola. Clarkson envisions a welcoming atmosphere, offering a free pint to farmers and hosting mental health forums for locals on quieter weekdays, emphasizing community engagement and support. Despite facing challenges in securing planning permission for previous ventures, Clarkson remains determined to create a vibrant and inviting space at The Windmill, distinct from its current dilapidated state. The pub’s renovation timeline is delayed until winter due to prior commitments, including hosting a wedding reception this summer. Clarkson’s vision for the pub aligns with his broader goal of showcasing products from his farm and brewery, providing a platform to showcase his Hawkstone lager and other locally sourced goods. Clarkson’s foray into the hospitality industry follows the success of his popular show 'Clarkson's Farm', where he navigates the complexities of agricultural life on his expansive farm. With a growing portfolio and a keen eye for unique opportunities, Clarkson’s latest endeavor at The Windmill reflects his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to preserving traditional British culture in the heart of the Cotswolds.