On a cold and rainy winter’s day, there are few things more inviting than a cozy country pub radiating warmth. My desire to visit this charming village pub in the heart of Vale of Glamorgan stemmed from several reasons. Firstly, its stellar reputation for delicious food caught my attention. Secondly, having pedaled past it numerous times, I often found myself tempted to abandon my bike and indulge in a pint.
However, the most compelling reason for my visit was the fact that this pub is under the ownership of a renowned sports figure. Two decades ago, I was among the crowd witnessing Gavin Henson’s pivotal kick that secured a historic victory for Welsh rugby. Despite not being the designated kicker that day, Henson’s remarkable 44-meter kick from a challenging angle turned the tide in Wales’ favor against England in Cardiff, marking the beginning of a new era in Welsh rugby.
Known for his distinctive appearance with spiky hair, bronzed skin, and a chiseled physique, Henson rose to fame as part of a celebrity power couple alongside singer Charlotte Church, earning them the moniker “Welsh Posh and Becks” in the media. Beyond his celebrity status, Henson’s exceptional athletic prowess and dedication set him apart. Despite his penchant for standing out, Henson now leads a low-key life in St Brides Major, shying away from the limelight and focusing on family.
In 2019, Henson and his wife, Katie, took over The Fox pub, where they revamped the establishment and reopened it in February 2020. Amid the challenges posed by the pandemic and Brexit, the pub garnered attention for seeking a new head chef. Today, The Fox exudes a timeless charm, blending homeliness with elegance through its décor featuring flagstone flooring, tasteful Christmas adornments, and rustic furnishings.
During my visit, I relished the cozy ambiance while savoring Butty Bach ale and Jeremy Clarkson’s Hawkstone lager. 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. For the main course, we opted for roast sirloin of Welsh beef and shoulder of Welsh lamb, both served with an array of delectable accompaniments.
The bill for our meal, comprising starters, mains, drinks, and kids’ meals, totaled £91, offering great value for the quality and portion sizes. Immersed in the inviting atmosphere of the pub, I felt right at home and overheard fellow diners expressing their eagerness to return—a sentiment I shared. My visit left me thoroughly impressed, even though I missed spotting one of my sports idols.