On a chilly and damp winter day, there is nothing quite like the inviting ambiance of a cozy countryside pub. I had been eager to visit this charming village pub in the heart of Vale of Glamorgan for several reasons. Firstly, it had built a solid reputation for its delectable cuisine. Secondly, despite cycling past it numerous times, I had always resisted the temptation to stop for a pint.
However, the most compelling reason for my visit was that this particular pub is under the ownership of a renowned sports figure. Two decades ago, I witnessed a pivotal moment in Welsh rugby history when Gavin Henson, not the designated kicker, successfully made a legendary kick from a challenging angle, securing a victory for Wales over England in a thrilling match in Cardiff. This iconic moment marked the beginning of a new era in Welsh rugby.
Henson, known for his distinctive appearance and talent, rose to fame and was part of a high-profile couple with singer Charlotte Church, earning them the nickname “Welsh Posh and Becks.” Despite his celebrity status, Henson showcased his dedication to sports, participating in various projects such as Strictly Come Dancing and The Bachelor. However, in recent years, he has chosen a more private life in the tranquil village of St Brides Major, where he now resides with his wife, Katie.
In 2019, the couple took over The Fox, a pub that underwent a significant renovation and reopened in February 2020. While early reviews praised the establishment for its excellent food and hospitality, the pub faced challenges in finding a new head chef amidst the disruptions caused by the pandemic and Brexit.
Today, The Fox exudes a timeless charm and warmth, welcoming guests with its stylish yet cozy interior featuring flagstone flooring, elegant Christmas decorations, and rustic wooden furnishings. As we settled at a comfortable table, we savored Butty Bach ale and Jeremy Clarkson’s Hawkstone lager while perusing the menu.
The Sunday menu offered a concise selection of starters and main courses, including crispy ham hock with confit egg yolk and cod and salmon fishcake with samphire and caper butter. For the main course, we indulged in roast sirloin of Welsh beef and shoulder of Welsh lamb, both served with an array of delectable sides. Despite being too full for dessert, the menu featured enticing options like sticky toffee pudding and chocolate orange marquise.
Our bill, which included starters, mains, kids’ meals, drinks, and a fruit juice, totaled £91. Considering the quality of the food and experience, it was a reasonable price. The cozy ambiance and delicious food made us feel right at home, and it was evident that other patrons shared our sentiment, with one expressing her intention to return. In essence, my experience at The Fox can be summed up in four words – a place worth revisiting, even if I missed catching a glimpse of my sporting hero.