On a chilly and damp winter day, there’s nothing quite as inviting as the warm ambiance of a charming rural pub. My eagerness to visit this delightful country pub in a quaint Vale of Glamorgan village stemmed from three compelling reasons. Firstly, its stellar reputation for serving exceptional food. Secondly, my frequent cycling past the pub tempted me to abandon my bike and step in for a pint.
However, the most significant reason driving my visit was the fact that this establishment is owned by a renowned sports figure. Two decades ago, I witnessed Gavin Henson’s remarkable kick that remains a cornerstone in Welsh rugby history. Despite not being the primary kicker for Wales that day, Henson’s audacious 44-meter kick at a challenging angle secured a historic victory over England in Cardiff, heralding a new era for Welsh rugby.
Henson, with his distinctive appearance characterized by spiky hair, a bronzed complexion, shaved legs, and a remarkable physique, ascended to celebrity status. Alongside singer Charlotte Church, he formed a high-profile couple often featured in UK tabloids and magazines as the “Welsh Posh and Becks.” His ventures into entertainment, including appearances on “Strictly Come Dancing” and “The Bachelor,” further elevated his public profile.
Beyond his celebrity persona, Henson was revered for his exceptional athletic prowess and dedication. Despite his penchant for standing out, he garnered widespread admiration. Presently, Henson shies away from the limelight, preferring a quiet family life in St Brides Major, near his childhood home. While he seldom grants interviews and declined participation in a BBC podcast, his low-key presence at The Fox, a pub he and his wife now manage, subtly hints at his involvement.
Following a comprehensive renovation and a reopening in early 2020, The Fox garnered acclaim for its cuisine and hospitality before facing challenges in hiring a new head chef amid the disruptions caused by the pandemic and Brexit. Despite these setbacks, the pub exudes a timeless charm and comfort, boasting a cozy yet stylish interior with flagstone floors, elegant decorations, and a warm ambiance.
During my visit, I relished the inviting atmosphere and sampled Butty Bach ale and Jeremy Clarkson’s Hawkstone lager while perusing the menu. Opting for the Sunday specials, we savored dishes like crispy ham hock with confit egg yolk, fennel, and apple, and a delectable cod and salmon fishcake with samphire and caper butter. The mains, featuring roast sirloin of Welsh beef and shoulder of Welsh lamb, impressed with their generous portions and exquisite flavors, accompanied by delectable sides and gravy.
Despite our satisfaction, we reluctantly skipped desserts to conclude a delightful meal that was reasonably priced at £91 for two starters, two mains, two kids’ meals, beverages, and a fruit juice. The experience left me feeling right at home, mirroring the sentiments of fellow diners eager to return. In essence, my visit encapsulated a sense of warmth and contentment, even though I missed the chance to spot one of my sporting idols.