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James May blasted his own pub (Image: Getty)
James May was self critical as he showed his fellow Top Gear star, Richard Hammond, around his latest venture. The 63-year-old has become part owner of a pub but opened up on some aspects of it that he "hates".
The Grand Tour star became part owner of The Royal Oak pub, which is located in the Wiltshire village of Swallowcliffe, back in 2020. Since then, he and his business partners have made significant progress, which he was eager to show off to his close friend and co-star.
Showing Hammond around the expansive country pub property, May explained some of the challenges that he has been faced with. He candidly admitted the financial strains that he has endured, saying: "I’ve never taken any money out of this pub. All I’ve done is spend money here."
He also shared that despite part-owning the pub he is always still expected to pay up for any drinks he may enjoy there, saying: "There’s no freebies. I pay."
Amid the tour, James pointed out a feature of the pub that he "hates". Showing Hammond the dining room, the TV presenter pointed out a mock wood-burning stove complete with a faux fire effect.
James May showed Hammond around his pub (Image: James May)
He described it as "b***** awful nonsense" before fuming: "We did not put that stupid fake fire in and I hate it. We should change it but I haven’t got around to it."
James also shared that he is sometimes "banned" from one area of the pub - the kitchen. He said he is “not normally allowed in the kitchen” and is “encouraged to leave” when he pops in.
He also admitted that he “has to have arguments” with pub manager Chris as he often tries to help out in the kitchen or behind the bar.
James has part owned a pub since 2020 (Image: James May)
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However, the TV star had nothing but praise for those working in hospitality. He complimented them and their work, as he said: “If you’re actually going to run it (a pub) yourself it’s hard work."
James continued: “It’s not particularly well paid, it’s not particularly healthy, it’s antisocial, there’s a risk of becoming fat and an alcoholic." Making a joke at his friend's expense, he quipped at Hammond, adding: "So you’d be ideal.”
Unbothered, Richard replied: “Sounds like life, I’m happy!"
English (US) ·