On a chilly and damp winter day, there’s nothing quite like the inviting warmth of a quaint countryside pub. My eagerness to visit this charming village pub in the Vale of Glamorgan stemmed from three key reasons. Firstly, its stellar reputation for serving delectable food. Secondly, having cycled past it numerous times, I often felt tempted to abandon my bike and pop in for a drink.
However, the most compelling reason for my visit was the fact that this pub is owned by a renowned sports figure. Two decades ago, I was among the spectators witnessing Gavin Henson execute a remarkable kick that etched its place in Welsh rugby history. Despite not being the primary kicker that day, Henson’s decisive 44-meter kick from a challenging angle secured Wales a victory over England in Cardiff, heralding a new era in Welsh rugby.
Henson, known for his distinctive appearance and relationship with singer Charlotte Church, garnered fame beyond the rugby field. While he achieved success on shows like Strictly Come Dancing and The Bachelor, his true passion lies in leading a private life in the serene village of St Brides Major, near his hometown. Although once a media magnet, Henson now shies away from the limelight, rarely granting interviews or participating in public appearances.
In 2019, Henson and his wife took ownership of The Fox, a move that signaled his transition to the hospitality industry. Following a renovation, the pub reopened in early 2020, receiving accolades for its cuisine and hospitality. Subsequently, amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic and Brexit, The Fox made headlines as it sought a new head chef to navigate the crisis in the hospitality sector.
Presently, The Fox exudes a timeless charm, blending homeliness with elegance through its decor of flagstone flooring, muted walls, wooden furnishings, and tasteful Christmas adornments. Settling at a cozy corner table, we savored Butty Bach ale and Jeremy Clarkson’s Hawkstone lager while perusing the menu. Featuring a concise Sunday selection, our meal included crispy ham hock, cod and salmon fishcake, roast Welsh beef, and shoulder of Welsh lamb, complemented by an array of accompaniments.
Despite being satiated, we passed on desserts, opting to relish the delightful ambiance a bit longer. The total bill for our meal and drinks was reasonable, reflecting the quality of the experience. As we left, I couldn’t help but notice the contentment on other patrons’ faces, with one expressing her intent to return—a sentiment I wholeheartedly shared. Although I missed encountering one of my sporting idols, the overall experience at The Fox was truly memorable.