If you’ve laughed along as Jeremy Clarkson fought with sheep, wrestled tractors, and screamed at council paperwork, you’ve probably wondered what it’s like to visit his patch of the English countryside. Here’s the truth: Clarkson’s Farm is only the beginning. Diddly Squat Farm Shop, Hawkstone Brewery, and The Farmer’s Dog pub sit in one of the most beautiful corners of the country – a country of rolling hills, honey-stone villages, and winding lanes that ask to be explored. Explore the real magic of the Cotswolds with our guide of fantastic things to do near Clarkson’s Farm – your guide to a perfect countryside weekend.
Best Things to Do near Clarkson’s Farm + Tips
- If you only do 3 things: Diddly Squat Farm Shop → a Cotswolds village stroll (Burford or Stow-on-the-Wold) → The Farmer’s Dog
- Best village combo: Bourton-on-the-Water + Upper & Lower Slaughters walk
- Best “big attraction” day trip: Blenheim Palace
- Best for beer fans: Hawkstone Brewery tour
- Best for families: Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens
- Best time to visit Diddly Squat: early morning on weekends (queues/parking get busy)
The Clarkson’s Farm Triangle
If you plotted the farm shop, pub, and brewery on a map, you’d see a neat little triangle in West Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire. Each point is within an easy half-hour drive of the others, and the roads between them are the kind that make you slow down just to soak in the views.
Diddly Squat Farm Shop in Chadlington
This is ground zero for Clarkson fans. Diddly Squat Farm Shop, a tiny wooden shop stuffed with local produce, Jeremy-branded goodies, and the occasional staff member from the show. The queues can be horrendous, so come here early. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot a tractor rumbling past on the surrounding hills.
Hawkstone Brewery near Bourton-on-the-Water
Barley from Clarkson’s fields becomes beer here – crisp lagers, hoppy IPAs, and cider. Hawkstone Brewery tours are relaxed and fun, with plenty of tasting opportunities. Even if you’re not a big beer drinker, you’ll come away with a new appreciation for how farming and brewing are tied together in this part of the world.
The Farmer’s Dog Pub in Astall, Near Burford
Formerly the Windmill, now the Farmer’s Dog, this is Jeremy’s countryside pub and restaurant. Expect classic pub feel – think steak and ale pie, a roaring fire in winter, and Hawkstone on tap. It’s a great place to end a day of exploring.
Places to Stay near Clarkson’s Farm
Where you stay makes a big difference here, because most visitors end up combining Diddly Squat, nearby villages, pubs, and one or two other stops in the wider Cotswolds. If you want a base that still feels special, focus on Burford for convenience and atmosphere, or Churchill if you’d rather stay somewhere quieter and more tucked away.
The Bay Tree Hotel (Burford)
- Best for: couples who want a classic Cotswolds base with restaurants, shops, and an easy day-trip feel.
- Good to know: Burford works especially well if you want somewhere lively and pretty in the evenings, while still being well placed for Clarkson’s Farm and the surrounding villages.
- A stay at The Bay Tree Hotel suits those who want character and comfort in the heart of one of the Cotswolds’ most attractive towns.
Dovecote Cottages (Churchill)
- Best for: a quieter countryside stay with more privacy and a slower pace.
- Good to know: Churchill feels more peaceful and tucked away than the busier tourist spots, so this is a better fit if you want a calmer base and don’t mind driving to dinner or attractions.
- Dovecote Cottages is a lovely option if you want a more independent, relaxed stay while still being within easy reach of Clarkson’s Farm and the wider Cotswolds.
Beyond the Show – 12 Things to do Near Clarkson’s Farm
Here’s where your “Clarkson pilgrimage” turns into a full-blown Cotswold adventure. All of these spots are within easy reach of the triangle, meaning you can mix and match them without spending all day in the car.
If You Only Have One Day – What We Recommend Doing?
- Morning: Diddly Squat (arrive very early)
- Lunch: The Farmer’s Dog (book in advance)
- Afternoon: Explore Bourton on the Water (best of the villages)
- Early Evening: Hawkstone Brewery (have a pint + street food)
For a full itinerary, jump to the Weekend Itinerary section.
What Activity Should You Pick?
If you’re not sure which stops are actually worth adding to your trip, this quick guide makes it easier to choose based on how much time you have and what kind of day you want.
Best for classic Cotswolds villages
- Burford: 1-2 hours, best for a pretty high street, independent shops, and an easy first village stop
- Stow-on-the-Wold: 1 hour, best for a quick wander, antique shops, and a classic market-town feel
- Bourton-on-the-Water: 2 hours, best for first-time visitors who want the most famous “postcard” village
Best for a bigger attraction
- Blenheim Palace: half day, best if you want one main attraction rather than lots of smaller stops
- Cotswold Wildlife Park: 2-4 hours, best for families or anyone who wants a more activity-based stop
- Chastleton House: 1-2 hours, best for quiet history and old-house atmosphere
Best for views, scenery, and something a bit different
- Broadway Tower: 1-2 hours, best for wide views and an easy scenic stop
- The Slaughters: 1-2 hours, best for a peaceful riverside walk and a quieter village feel
- Rollright Stones: 30-45 minutes, best for a quick, atmospheric stop if you like ancient sites
Best for families or a slower-paced day
- Cotswold Falconry Centre: 1-2 hours, best for bird displays and an easy family-friendly stop
- Cotswold Motoring Museum: 1-1.5 hours, best for a rainy-day option or if you’re in Bourton-on-the-Water
- Chipping Norton Museum: 30-60 minutes, best for a very short indoor stop if you’re already nearby
1. Stunning Villages and Towns
Paying a visit to one of the most beautiful villages in the region is among the best things to do near Clarkson’s Farm. You only need up to 2 hours to explore each town/village. You don’t need to pay any admissions, just stroll the towns and villages and enjoy the beauty.
Chipping Norton – The nearest market town to Diddly Squat. Packed with independent shops, cosy cafés, and a real local vibe. Tip: A must visit for those who travel mainly to visit all the locations mentioned in the Clarkson’s Farm.
Stow-on-the-Wold – Antique shops, a historic market square, and the famous “Tolkien Door” at St Edward’s Church a must visit for any Tolkien’s fans (inspiration to the ‘Doors of Durin’) . Only about 20 minutes drive from Clarkson’s Farm locations.
Burford – One of the most beautiful towns in Cotswolds – a town based on a hill, the high street is steep and is incredibly beautiful with all the golden-stone houses and cottages. Only about 20 minutes drive from Clarkson’s Farm locations, literally right next to the Farmer’s Dog.
Bourton-on-the-Water – The “Venice of the Cotswolds” with its shallow river and low bridges, an absolute must to visit on your trip. Located 25 minutes drive from Clarkson’s Farm locations, 5 minutes drive to the Hawkstone Brewery.
Upper & Lower Slaughter – Two of the prettiest villages in England, connected by a riverside walk you must do and which you’ll remember forever. Around 30 minutes drive from Clarkson’s Farm locations, 5 minutes from the Hawkstone Brewery.
Moreton-in-Marsh – Lovely market town, with easy train connections if you’re arriving without a car. Around 20 minutes drive from Clarkson’s Farm locations.
2. Blenheim Palace
One of England’s most magnificent stately homes, Blenheim is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. You can tour the baroque palace, explore extensive gardens, and enjoy scenic parkland walks. Various exhibitions and events make it a must-see.
- Best for: history lovers and families
- Time needed: can be half day or full day, depending if you plan to visit the gardens or events. Palace open daily from 10.30 am to 5 pm, admission is £41 per adult (if admissions for gardens and park only, £15 per adult)
- Tip: Book ahead especially on weekends, great place for a rainy day. Pair your visit with nearby Oxford Bus museum.
3. Broadway Tower
This 18th-century folly sits on the Cotswold tower, offering panoramic views across up to 16 counties on a clear day. The tower has a small museum and rooftop viewing platform, while the surrounding deer park makes for a beautiful moderate walk. It’s one of the best things to do near Clarkson’s Farm, the views are stunning.
- Best for: nature lovers, families and anyone wanting to escape busy towns
- Time needed: 2-3 hours, the tower is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, admission is £5 per adult
- Tip: visit on a sunny day, otherwise it can be muddy in rain with no views. Walks itself is beautiful, you’ll see a lot without the need of paying for a ticket.
4. Rollright Stones
A mysterious prehistoric site consisting of three ancient monuments: the King’s Men stone circle, the Whispering Knights burial chamber, and the King Stone monolith. The setting is simple but atmospheric.
- Best for: history lovers and families
- Time needed: Quick stop – 30 minutes
- Tip: open all the year round, admissions £2 per adult (honest box), only two small laybys for parking, arrive early or late afternoon.
5. Cotswolds Motoring Museum
A quirky museum full of vintage cars, motorcycles, enamel signs, toys, and motoring objects. It’s also the home of Brum, the beloved little yellow car from children’s TV. One of the best things to do near Clarkson’s Farm if you’re into cars.
- Best for: history and car fans, families, great activity on a rainy day
- Time needed + opening hours and admissions: 2 hours +, open daily 10 am to 6 pm, admission around £10 per adult
- Tip: Located in Bourton on the Water makes it a perfect stop during your town visit. Easily accessible by train.
6. Sudeley Castle & Gardens
A historic castle with royal connections stretching back over 1,000 years, best known as the resting place of Katherine Parr, Henry VIII’s last wife. The beautifully restored gardens include themed areas like the Queen’s Garden and Knot Garden.
- Best for: history lovers, families, great activity on a rainy day
- Time needed + opening hours and admissions: 3 hours +, open daily 10 am to 5 pm from March till November, admission around £24 per adult
- Tip: Great if you want to explore more filming-related spots, located a bit far away from main attractions (40 minutes drive).
7. Chastleton House
This Jacobean country house has remained largely unchanged for over 400 years, offering a rare “time capsule” experience. It showcases authentic interiors without modern restorations.
- Best for: history lovers, great activity on a rainy day
- Time needed + opening hours and admissions: 2-3 hours, open Wednesday to Sunday, daily 10 am to 5 pm from March till October, admission around £17 per adult
- Tip: One of the hidden places which may not be super busy, perfect when you want to escape crowds but want to stay close to Diddly Squat’s locations.
8. Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens
Set in 160 acres of landscaped parkland, this is one of the UK’s most family-friendly wildlife parks. It’s home to lions, rhinos, giraffes, and lemurs, alongside themed gardens and a Victorian manor house. You can even walk through a landscaped enclosure alongside penguins and meerkats.
- Best for: families and animal lovers
- Time needed + opening hours and admissions: 3 – 4 hours, open daily from 10 am to 4 pm (till 6 pm in summer months), admission around £19per adult
- Tip: Pair this with exploring nearby Burford and dinner at Farmer’s Dog (book your table in advance)
9. Oxford Bus Museum
A hidden gem for transport lovers, housing a collection of historic buses, coaches, and Morris cars. The museum tells the story of public transport in Oxfordshire, with lovingly restored vehicles on display.
- Best for: families and transport lovers
- Time needed + opening hours and admissions: 2 – 3 hours, open Wednesday to Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm, admission around £8 per adult
- Tip: Pair this with the visit of nearby Blenheim Palace. Easily reachable by train from Oxford.
10. Hook Norton Brewery Tour
One of Britain’s last remaining Victorian tower breweries, still brewing beer the traditional way. You can join guided tours that take you through the history of brewing, from the maltings to the working steam engine.
- Best for: all beer lovers
- Tours: 2 hours with beer tasting, tours daily at 10 am or 2 pm, admission around £20 per adult
- Tip: Pair this with the visit of nearby Rollright Stones. They have a great restaurant on site.
11. Chipping Norton Museum of Local History
A small but fascinating museum run by volunteers, covering the town’s history from prehistoric times to the modern day. Exhibits include farming tools, wool and tweed industry artefacts, and social history items. It’s a charming stop for anyone interested in rural heritage.
- Best for: history lovers and those interested in Chipping Norton
- Time needed and admissions: 1 – 2 hours, open 2 pm to 4 pm Monday to Saturday, from Easter to October, admission £1.50 per adult
- Tip: Pair this with the visit of nearby Rollright Stones. They have a great restaurant on site.
12. Batsford Arboretum & Falconry Centre
A beautiful 56-acre arboretum showcasing trees and plants from around the world, especially stunning in autumn. Right next door is the Cotswold Falconry Centre, where you can watch daily flying displays of eagles, hawks, owls, and falcons.
- Best for: birds and plants lovers, families
- Time needed and admissions: Allow 2 – 3 hours, Falconry open daily from 10.30 am till 3 pm, £15 per adult. Arboretum is open daily, 10 am to 5 pm, £12 per adult.
- Tip: Explore nearby Moreton-in-Marsh. Arboretum is especially stunning in spring or autumn months.
Suggested Weekend Itinerary with Things To Do near Clarkson’s Farm
Friday Afternoon & Evening
- Arrive in the Cotswolds and check into a cosy inn or boutique B&B in Burford or Chipping Norton.
- Dinner at The Farmer’s Dog Pub in Astall, your first taste of Hawkstone beer, served alongside hearty local dishes. Book your table in advance; this place is incredibly busy.
- If you’re staying in Burford, wander the steep high street as the sun sets; the golden stone glows in the evening light.
Saturday – Farm, Villages, & The Slaughters Walk
Morning
- Start at Diddly Squat Farm Shop in Chadlington. Get there very early to beat the queues and browse the shelves for quirky souvenirs, local honey, and the now-famous Hawkstone lager.
- Coffee stop in Stow-on-the-Wold – stroll around the antique shops, then find St Edward’s Church and see the ancient yew trees framing its wooden door (fans call it “the Tolkien Door”).
Afternoon
- Drive 10 minutes to Lower Slaughter for the Upper & Lower Slaughter Riverside Walk. Follow the River Eye upstream to Upper Slaughter, passing stone bridges and cottages. Pause to admire the ford (shallow river crossing) and wander the quiet lanes before returning the same way. If you’re feeling indulgent, enjoy cream tea at The Slaughters Country Inn before heading back.
Evening
- Dinner in Chipping Norton or Stow-on-the-Wold -several excellent pubs and inns offer seasonal menus with local produce.
Sunday – Bourton, Brewery, & Farewell
Morning
- Head to Bourton-on-the-Water, the “Venice of the Cotswolds”. Stroll along the river, browse the independent shops, or pop into the Cotswold Motoring Museum (a treat for car enthusiasts).
Lunch & Afternoon
- Drive 5 minutes to Hawkstone Brewery for a tour and tasting. Learn how Clarkson’s barley ends up in your pint, and stock up before heading home.
- Time permitting, take a short detour to Minster Lovell Hall Ruins – the romantic remains of a 15th-century manor beside the River Windrush, perfect for one last countryside wander.
Practical Tips to Enjoy Clarkson’s Farm Location and Cotswolds
- Best Time to Visit: Spring for lambs and blossom, autumn for rich colours, winter for pub fires.
- Getting Around: A car is essential – the joy is in meandering along B-roads with views around every bend.
- Parking: Diddly Squat has limited parking; at busy times, you may be directed to overflow fields. Villages have very limited on-street parking – arrive early or late.
- Booking Ahead: Reserve brewery tours and pub tables, especially on weekends.
- Arrive early: All location of Clarkson’s Farm can be incredibly busy, especially during weekends. Arrive early in the morning, then explore the beauty of Costswolds. Queues are worst 10 am to 3 pm, avoid this time.
- How long to stay: Stay for the whole weekend, Cotswolds has so much to offer than just Clarkson’s Farm
- How long to plan for activities: villages and towns strolls can be done in 1-2 hours, if you are planning nature walks, allow half day for them. As for Clarkson’s Farm locations, unless you opt for a meal in one of the locations, the visit can be fairly quick. You can explore each of its 3 locations within 1 hour each.
- Essentials activities: one village stroll, a good pub lunch and viewpoint, e.g. Broadway Tower.
- Don’t do – visit too many villages in one day (they start to blur together), arrive at the most famous place at peak time, driving long to see the best village.
Clarkson’s Farm Location Map
We added all the Clarkson’s Farm locations & tips mentioned in this blog into a free Clarkson’s Farm Location Map. You can use this Google map during your trip without the need of creating your own map.
How to access our free Clarkson’s Farm location map? Simply click the button below to access and download our map. This map can be easily accessed on your phone or printed for convenience.
Final Tips from Us
You’ll come for Clarkson’s Farm, but you’ll leave with much more – golden-stone villages, riverside walks, market town charm, and maybe a boot full of Hawkstone beer. With so many things to do near Clarkson’s Farm, the Cotswolds will work its magic on you. And remember: Jeremy may have put this patch of countryside on your radar, but once you’ve wandered through the Cotswolds’ fairytale villages, sipped a pint in a centuries-old pub, and watched the sun set over the Windrush valley after a rewarding walk, you’ll understand why people have been falling for the Cotswolds for centuries. And don’t forget Bath – it must be on your list!
FAQs for Things to Do Near Clarkson’s Farm
Do you need tickets to visit Diddly Squat?
No ticket is needed to stop by the Farm Shop, pub or brewery itself, but it’s a small site with limited space, so access can be managed on busy days.
What time should I arrive?
If you want the smoothest experience, go early morning (be there at 9 am), especially on weekends, school holidays, or good-weather days. Later mornings and early afternoons tend to be the busiest, and queues/parking can build quickly.
Can you do the trip without a car?
Realistically, it’s difficult without a car. The places you can pair with Diddly Squat are spread out and public transport between villages is limited and slow. If you don’t drive, your best alternative is to be based in a nearby town with better connections, then use taxis – Chipping Norton has direct buses from Oxford, and Moreton-in-Marsh has direct trains from Oxford.
Is it worth it in winter?
Yes, with the right expectations. Winter can be quieter and very atmospheric, but some attractions have reduced hours, walks can be muddy, daylight is short, so plan a tighter itinerary.
How long do you need for the “triangle”?
- Half day (4 – 5 hours): Diddly Squat + pub lunch at Farmer’s Dog
- Full day: add a village stroll or a bigger attraction (e.g., Blenheim)
- Weekend (ideal): one day focused on villages/walks, one day for a larger attraction + brewery/pubs
