The future of Jeremy Clarkson's controversial farm restaurant is still up in the air - but for a brief time last summer it was arguably one of the most 'unforgettable' dining experiences on offer. As season two of Clarkson's Farm shows, the former Top Gear presenter opened a restaurant in an abandoned barn on Diddly Squat Farm after he found a "delightful little loophole".
The rustic and mostly outdoor eatery boasted stunning views of the countryside and a menu by acclaimed chef Pip Lacey. However, the restaurant was short-lived as the council soon ordered the farm to shut the restaurant, saying at the time that its "nature, scale [and] siting is unsustainable and incompatible with its countryside location within the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty."
While Clarkson and his team wait to see if their appeal against the decision is successful, reviews on Opentable give us a glimpse into what the restaurant was like during its short life - and what to possibly expect if it ever reopens. One person wrote: "Absolutely amazing experience. Fine dining in the middle of a field, Birmingham Live reports.
Read more: Nottingham actress Vicky McClure and drama Sherwood nominated for BAFTAs
"Five star food, great service, the most beautiful view. We went for my sons 18th birthday and it’ll be an evening he will never forget as a certain someone came and said hello! Overall just a great evening."
Visitor Joanna wrote: "Such an amazing experience! The location was great with a wonderful view.
"We were sat inside the lambing shed so it was pretty cool. The food was exceptional and the chef came over to chat with us for a bit which was lovely!"
Another said: "Fabulous experience. We went with no great expectation of food quality.
"However, it surpassed the quality of some meals I’ve had at top restaurants. The staff are lovely and friendly and everything was well organised."
One guest added: "The staff went above and before, such a British experience - the food was incredible, amazing experience getting moved around by tractor. Not to mention the views - I would highly recommend."
Another diner said: "Delightful experience and utterly unique. Sitting next to an old stone sheep cote in the middle of a field and being served course after course of sophisticated, delicious local fare - can’t be beat. Front of house staff were superb - friendly, efficient and clearly enjoying making this improbable venture work.
"Just enough of Jeremy’s sense of humour to remind you where you are but that is all woven into the overall sense of care that has gone into creating this experience."
READ MORE:
