On a chilly and rainy winter day, a cozy country pub exudes a warm welcome like no other. The allure of this charming country pub nestled in a quaint Vale of Glamorgan village beckoned me for three compelling reasons. Firstly, its stellar reputation for delectable food was a strong draw. Secondly, having cycled past it numerous times, I often felt tempted to abandon my bike and step in for a refreshing pint.
However, the most significant reason was that this pub is under the ownership of a renowned sports figure. Two decades ago, I witnessed Gavin Henson make a historic kick in Welsh rugby history, propelling Wales to victory against England in a nail-biting match in Cardiff. Despite not being the first-choice kicker that day, Henson’s 44-meter kick from a challenging angle secured the win, marking a new chapter in Welsh rugby.
Henson, known for his distinctive appearance and athletic prowess, rose to fame alongside singer Charlotte Church, earning the moniker “Welsh Posh and Becks” in media circles. Beyond his celebrity status, Henson’s talent and dedication to his sport set him apart. Despite his flamboyant style, he garnered admiration and affection from fans. Today, he shies away from the limelight, opting for a quiet family life in the serene village of St Brides Major near his hometown.
In 2019, Henson and his wife, Katie, took over The Fox, a move that garnered attention due to Henson’s presence indicated by a black Bentley in the parking lot. Following a renovation, the pub reopened in early 2020, receiving accolades for its cuisine and hospitality before facing challenges in finding a new head chef amidst industry disruptions caused by the pandemic and Brexit.
Presently, The Fox exudes an air of timeless comfort. Stepping inside felt instantly familiar, with its homely yet stylish ambiance featuring flagstone floors, tasteful decor, and festive Christmas embellishments. As we settled at a cozy corner table, we savored Butty Bach ale and Jeremy Clarkson’s Hawkstone lager while perusing the menu.
The Sunday menu, though concise, boasted enticing offerings. We indulged in crispy ham hock and cod-salmon fishcake starters, followed by sumptuous mains of roast Welsh beef sirloin and shoulder of Welsh lamb. Accompanied by an array of delectable sides, the dishes showcased impeccable flavors and textures. Despite skipping desserts, which included tempting options like sticky toffee pudding and chocolate orange marquise, our dining experience was satisfying.
Our bill, inclusive of starters, mains, beverages, and children’s meals, totaled £91, with my portion amounting to £37. The reasonable pricing, cozy atmosphere, and delectable fare left a lasting impression. Eavesdropping on nearby patrons expressing their intent to return echoed my sentiments precisely. Though I missed spotting my sporting idol, the pub’s charm and culinary delights made the visit truly memorable.