Inside James May's charming country pub

It has been a few years since James May decided to co-own the Royal Oak pub in the tiny village of Swallowcliffe. It has had a bit of a refresh since you guys last saw it, so let James take you for a quick tour around his pride and joy.

Sync ID: MB01VWOGZXAYRBK

[daygon]

Imagine watching Top Gear in the 2000's and being told that Jeremy would end up owning and operating a farm, Richard would own an auto shop, and James would own a pub. Legends.

[LewisMcGrath]

I’m one of the locals at this pub, born and bred in the local nearby village. James is honestly such a wonderful man and down to earth, he gets involved with the locals and has a brilliant sense of humour. I see him and speak to him weekly. He’s been amazing for our village, saving our pub, speaks to all the locals and would do anything for anyone. He’s currently repairing an old Hornby Train for me. We’re lucky to have him! I was obsessed with Top Gear growing up, seems so weird that he was on that show, he’s just one of us locals now. Thank you James 💙

[coulterbruce]

James May is the smartest of the 3.

Hammond - Car workshop. Lots of hard work.
Clarkson - Farm. Even more hard work.
May - Pub. Hang around drinking and relaxing.

[rckrckrckrck]

Stayed there for almost a week. The manager, chef, and staff are so lovely. Amazing food and hospitality.

[benshallcross]

Made a special trip to the Royal Oak from Norwich. It was worth every mile of the journey. Love the pub. Staff were amazing and the food outstanding, best chips in the country (no hyperbole)!

[berca]

I didn't expect the pub would look this incredible! Loving it James!

[wideshadyy]

I literally came here 3 days ago, now I see this. It is a truly lovely pub with very kind waitstaff and we only stayed for drinks but they were quick and delicious.

[ShooterPat]

James May and the people he surrounds himself with are gems. Everyone is so genuine and fun loving. Just brings up that quote anout James May being the most interesting uninteresting man in the world

[gangsterbroccoli]

Pubs like this are something I wish we had more of in the US

[uzairharoon]

I stopped by this pub in June while I was visiting England. Loved the pub. It was clean and very cozy. Wish I was able to meet James May, maybe next year!

[relaxingbuilds]

My mums side of the family grew up near there. A beautiful pub, never thought it would be owned by the legend James May

[magnusfranzonuvebrant]

My dear wife and i arrived for one night on 4th of Dec. last year, ended up staing for longer ’cause it was so ruddy brilliant!
Guest at the bar, drink, food, and the staff, all 🌟 Managed to bring a few bottles of James Gin back to Sweden to boot! 11 out of 10♥️
Magnus & Annika.

[katman]

James May is an old hippy. 1962 may have been before he was born but he's from that time. The Pub is quite Posh. May's time in Italy has turned hime into a rock star. Rock stars are hard to come by lately. Thanks for updating us on the Pub. I was wondering how it was doing. It looks really nice. Much success to you and the Pub.

[juliekostas]

All the way here in NYC we're hearing about how delicious and delightful this pub is! I cannot wait to try it out next time I'm in the UK! Bravo Mr. May and Co.

[krispykremes]

James morphing into Billy Connolly in his later years was unexpected but I'm okay with it. Love the pub, classic rural English goodness.

[drackkor]

It's about time a show worth watching and winning a guest appearance on :)

[TomEntwistle]

We visited for a lunch in August (2023) and I rate the meal as top class, we really enjoyed it.

[edwardwilcox]

What a nice pub! That `Oak Room` looks terrific & matches all the other improvements made. The frontage looks particlarly inviting & I wish all concerned the very best success in making it a viable & enjoyable business.

[MrDkusa]

James congrats my friend. I know this is your passion and im glad you're living it. Thank you for the many years and continued laughs

[amochswohntet]

Top Gear was a spectacular success. I’m happy to see you’re enjoying your fortune from it.