Part 2/10:
During the 2008 financial crisis, Clarkson seized the opportunity to buy an extensive 1,000-acre plot of land near Chipping Norton in the Cotswolds for approximately £4.25 million. This move was dictated not only by a desire for investment but also by a strategic approach to mitigate taxes. By acquiring land, he would not be liable for death duties upon passing, allowing him a tangible asset that could also provide enjoyment for his family. This prioritization of land over liquid assets reflected a burgeoning appreciation for farming, even if he was initially just a casual investor.