‘I hate it!’ James May blasts ‘b****y awful’ in his own pub as he fumes over staffing decision

On November 23, 2024By Littum

James May, 63, has made an honest assessment of what he likes and “hates” about his country pub.

The former Top Gear and Grand Tour star revealed all to his friend and long-time co-presenter, Richard Hammond, as he showed him around the property.

The 63-year-old became co-owner of The Royal Oak pub, found in the Wiltshire village of Swallowcliffe, in 2020.

May welcomed Hammond to show the progress made since he and his business partners took over the business.

As much as the former Top Gear host raves about his pub, he admits it has been a challenge.

“I’ve never taken any money out of this pub. All I’ve done is spend money here,” May explained.

May showed Hammond around her country pub

YouTube: DRIVETRIBE

The co-owner who tries to be present on the spot when he can, admited”there is no freebies. I pay” when it comes to his visits.

Despite this, May beamed that he is “most proud” of the refurbishment of the pub’s Oak Room.

However, the 63-year-old described one feature as “b***** horrible nonsense”.

The dining room has a mock wood stove complete with a faux fire effect.

“insulting ‘fireplace’

YouTube: DRIVETRIBE

“We didn’t put in the stupid fake fire and I hate it.” May shuddered before admitting: “We should change that but I haven’t got around to it.”

On top of his rants with the dining room heater, the former Grand Tour star reveals that he is often at odds with his business partners and staff.

May explained that he “has to have arguments” with pub manager Chris and is often told off for trying help in the kitchen and in the bar.

The 63-year-old dryly admitted that he is “not usually allowed in the kitchen” and is “told to leave” when he enters.

However, May has great sympathy for the day-to-day workers at The Royal Oak and the pub industry in general.

“If you’re actually going to run it (a pub) yourself, it’s hard work,” he explained.

May became part owner of The Royal Oak in 2020

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“It’s not very well paid, it’s not very healthy, it’s antisocial, there’s a risk of getting fat and alcoholic,” he explained, before turning to Hammond with a twist: “So you’d be ideal. ”

“Sounds like life, I’m happy,” beamed Hammond in response.