Jeremy Clarkson offers pub owner £1 million after brief encounter

Former Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson has made headlines for purchasing a local pub in the Cotswolds for nearly £1 million, aiming to transform it into a traditional gastro venue. Clarkson, known for his farm-based Amazon series, Clarkson’s Farm, plans to serve his own beer and produce from Diddly Squat Farm at the pub, located just 10 miles from his property. The pub's former owner, Jackie Walker, accepted Clarkson's offer after meeting him at his home in Chadlington, impressed by his vision for the venue. Clarkson's purchase of The Windmill pub, not tied to a brewery, allows him the freedom to sell his own products on-site, including his Hawkstone ale. Renovation work has already begun, with plans to film the project for a potential TV series. Walker, who opened the pub with her late husband in 1983, hopes Clarkson can restore the pub to its former success and attract both locals and tourists with British-sourced food from Diddly Squat farm. The deal between Clarkson and Walker was struck swiftly, with Clarkson's enthusiasm and financial offer securing the purchase. Clarkson's ambition to showcase the challenges of running a pub and promote British farming aligns with his previous endeavors. Despite initial concerns from locals about potential traffic disruptions, Clarkson's venture has been met with optimism, with hopes that The Windmill's revival will benefit the area economically and culturally. As Clarkson embarks on this new venture, his plans to create a club house atmosphere at the pub, offering free pints to farmers and serving exclusively British-sourced food, reflect his commitment to supporting local businesses and showcasing the best of British produce. With filming underway and a targeted reopening later in the year, Clarkson's foray into the hospitality industry is closely watched, with expectations high for the success of The Windmill under his ownership.