Diddly Squat Restaurant Prices Locations Updated 2025
The Diddly Squat Restaurant was a unique dining spot located on Jeremy Clarkson’s farm in Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, England. Created as an extension of the popular Amazon Prime series Clarkson’s Farm, it aimed to give fans and food lovers a taste of life on the farm. This restaurant stood out because it was truly rustic, offering a farm-to-table experience using ingredients sourced directly from the land. The seating was outdoors, and the setup was intentionally minimal—reflecting the show’s realistic farming theme.
Who Opened the Diddly Squat Restaurant?
Jeremy Clarkson, best known for Top Gear, wanted to expand the farm experience by adding a restaurant. He teamed up with chef Pip Lacey, a well-known culinary expert, to serve meals crafted from seasonal farm produce. The restaurant quickly became a hot destination, especially for fans of Clarkson and British countryside life. Visitors loved the raw, authentic experience that came with dining in a converted lambing barn.
What Made It So Special?
The diddly squat restaurant was unlike any traditional restaurant. Guests had to bring their own alcohol and dine at outdoor tables placed in the open countryside. The menu changed frequently depending on available farm ingredients. There were no fancy decorations or waiters in suits—just great food, fresh air, and honest farm vibes. That simple concept became the heart of the experience.
Menu and Food Options
The food was fresh, hearty, and very British. Most dishes featured ingredients like beef, potatoes, and vegetables grown on-site. Below is a sample of the meals that were often served at the Diddly Squat Restaurant.
| Dish Name | Main Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Beef Roast | Farm beef, carrots, roast potatoes | Often the highlight of the menu |
| Ploughman’s Board | Cheese, pickles, crusty bread | Served cold with sides |
| Sausage Roll | Pork sausage, flaky pastry | Freshly baked on the farm |
| Truffle Fries | Hand-cut potatoes, truffle oil | Fan favorite snack |
| Filter Coffee | Locally brewed beans | Served with cream or sugar |
Prices and Dining Experience
The dining cost was £49 per person, which included a multi-course meal. A VIP upgrade was available at £69, which provided seating in a private hut and an extended menu experience. While the pricing was on the higher end for a farm café, visitors felt it was worth it due to the location and exclusive nature of the meals.
Legal Trouble and Restaurant Closure
Despite its success, the diddly squat restaurant faced serious issues. The West Oxfordshire District Council opposed the setup due to zoning laws. The land was in a protected Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Complaints included increased traffic, noise, and environmental concerns. After legal reviews and an official order, Jeremy Clarkson was told to shut down the restaurant permanently in August 2022.
What Remains at the Farm?
Although the diddly squat restaurant was closed, the Diddly Squat Farm Shop and The Big View Café continue to operate. Visitors can still enjoy light meals, snacks, and coffee while overlooking the beautiful countryside.
Here’s what is still open and what is not:
| Feature | Status | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Diddly Squat Restaurant | Closed | Shut down by legal order |
| Diddly Squat Farm Shop | Open | Offers local farm produce and merchandise |
| The Big View Café | Open | Serves snacks, drinks, and light meals |
| Hawkstone Lager Sales | Open | Farm beer made from local barley |
Visitor Experience at the Café
Visitors still flock to the farm for its friendly café and charming views. The café offers items such as bacon rolls, sausage baps, burgers, and fresh coffee. The seating is still outdoors, but there is now a wooden shelter and more tables, making it more comfortable for families and tourists.
How to Visit the Location
The Diddly Squat Farm is near Chipping Norton, best accessed by car. There are limited public transport options, and it’s better to plan your route ahead of time. Parking is available on-site. The farm shop and café are open from Wednesday to Sunday, usually from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. It’s a good idea to arrive early, especially during holidays or weekends when the place is busy.
Local Tourism
Even after the diddly squat restaurant closed, Jeremy Clarkson’s farm continues to draw large crowds. Tourists still enjoy seeing the location featured in Clarkson’s Farm. Local shops, inns, and cafés benefit from the increased foot traffic. Despite challenges, the farm project helped bring attention to rural businesses and farming realities. It has sparked conversations about planning permissions and countryside development in modern Britain.
Final Thoughts
The diddly squat restaurant was short-lived, but it made a big impact. It brought farm-fresh food to the spotlight and gave visitors a chance to experience real rural dining. Although it’s no longer open, its memory lives on through the show, fans, and continued farm activities. Jeremy Clarkson’s vision may have faced legal blocks, but it succeeded in inspiring people to appreciate farming and simple living. Whether you’re visiting for a snack or just curious, Diddly Squat Farm still offers a taste of countryside life.
