Jeremy Clarkson’s Surprising U-Turn on Manchester: From Disdain to Praise
Clarkson’s Changing Opinion of Manchester
Jeremy Clarkson has undergone a remarkable transformation in his views on Manchester. Known for his outspoken opinions, especially when it comes to the rivalry between cities like London and Manchester, Clarkson now finds himself singing the praises of the northern city. In his weekend column for The Times, the 65-year-old Grand Tour star admitted that his perspective has shifted significantly over the years.
Clarkson, who has been traveling to Manchester for the past eight years to film Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, initially wasn’t impressed with the city. However, after frequent visits, he now declares that Manchester is “steadily growing on me” and even boldly states that it “might be better than London.”
A New Appreciation for Manchester’s Vibrant Food Scene
Clarkson’s change of heart comes as he has begun to appreciate the city’s atmosphere and diverse offerings. He shares his recent experience at an Indian restaurant in Manchester, which was bustling even on a Tuesday evening. Clarkson humorously commented on how he couldn’t believe a group of 30 people could gather for a modern curry, highlighting the vibrant energy of the city.
He also raved about Manchester’s thriving dining scene, praising a superb pizza place and an Italian restaurant known for making its own pasta. Although he didn’t name the restaurants directly, Clarkson was recently spotted at Ciaooo, a popular Neapolitan pizza spot in the Northern Quarter, which opened in 2018. The owners of Ciaooo expressed their honor in hosting the star, as he visited the venue in November.
Celebrating Manchester’s Booming Skyline and Economy
Clarkson also welcomed the city’s growing skyline, noting the interesting mix of old Victorian warehouses with modern glass and steel buildings. He acknowledged the impressive rate of development, with the Greater Manchester economy expected to add £38 billion by 2035. With the city’s economy growing at a rate of 3.1%, Clarkson expressed his support for the initiatives put forward by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, stating that he hoped his endorsement would help Burnham feel like his efforts were making an impact.
From Criticism to Compliment
This transformation is a stark contrast to Clarkson’s past comments about Manchester. In 2014, he posted a sarcastic message on social media: “People of Manchester. It’s not raining and there is electricity. Welcome to London.” A few years before that, in 2011, he described Salford—though he admitted he hadn’t visited—as “a small suburb with a Starbucks and a canal with ducks.” But in 2018, Clarkson softened his stance, calling Manchester a “British Berlin.”
Now, Clarkson’s newfound affection for the city seems to have deepened, with him acknowledging the city’s growth and vibrancy in his recent column. However, his comments weren’t without a little jab at one of the city’s most famous figures: Liam Gallagher. Clarkson referred to the “stupid accent” of the Oasis frontman, jokingly comparing it to the more “proper” northern accents of figures like Sean Bean and Mark Knopfler.
Conclusion: Clarkson’s U-Turn on Manchester
Jeremy Clarkson’s opinion of Manchester has evolved from disdain to admiration. What was once a city he humorously criticized has now become one he respects and enjoys. From the food scene to the booming economy, Manchester has proven to Clarkson that it has much more to offer than he once thought. Whether it’s the city’s growing skyline or its vibrant cultural atmosphere, Clarkson now believes that Manchester might just have the edge over London.
