Road Closure Warning Issued for Area Near Jeremy Clarkson's Cotswold Pub
Oxfordshire County Council has issued a formal warning to local residents and visitors that a key road near Jeremy Clarkson's popular Cotswold pub will close temporarily for urgent repairs this spring. The B4047 Burford Road in Minster Lovell is scheduled to shut for surface dressing works from May 1 to May 5, 2026, with daily closures from 4:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Impact on Access to The Farmer's Dog Pub
The planned road closure will significantly affect access to The Farmer's Dog pub, which sits near the A40 Asthall barrow roundabout outside the picturesque village. Patrons heading to the establishment owned by the former Top Gear host will need to find alternative routes during the closure period. The council has emphasized that the temporary traffic regulation is necessary for public safety while the surface dressing works are completed.
According to the official Temporary Traffic Regulation Notice issued under Section 14 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, the closure will include both the road itself and a "No Waiting" restriction along the affected stretch. The notice clarifies that access will be maintained for emergency service vehicles and for properties within the closure area, though this will be subject to the progress of the works and coordination with the site supervisor.
Background on Clarkson's Pub Venture
The Farmer's Dog opened in April 2024 after Clarkson purchased and renovated the property, adding outdoor seating and a shop selling merchandise from his Diddly Squat Farm. The pub has generated considerable attention not only for its celebrity ownership but also for Clarkson's outspoken political stance regarding the hospitality industry.
In December 2025, Clarkson announced he had banned more than 400 Labour MPs from the pub in protest against government tax changes affecting hospitality businesses. He claimed these changes increased his yearly business rates bill from £28,000 to £50,000. When the pub originally opened, Clarkson also barred Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer from the establishment, accusing the government of being "anti-business" and contributing to what he called the "dire" state of the pub industry.
Local Council Coordination
The warning about the impending road closure was issued by Witney Town Council on behalf of Oxfordshire County Council. The notice specifies that temporary closures for urgent works can last up to five consecutive days maximum, which aligns with the planned four-day closure window. Local authorities are advising motorists to plan alternative routes in advance and to expect potential delays in the area during the maintenance period.
This infrastructure work comes at a time when Clarkson's pub continues to draw visitors to the Cotswolds region, making the temporary road closure particularly noteworthy for both local residents and tourists planning spring visits to the area. The council has assured that all necessary measures will be taken to minimize disruption while ensuring the safety of both workers and the public during the essential maintenance operations.
