On a chilly and rainy winter day, nothing beats the cozy ambiance of a quaint countryside pub. I was eager to visit a charming pub nestled in a small village in Vale of Glamorgan for several reasons. Firstly, it was renowned for its delicious food. Secondly, as a frequent cyclist passing by, I often felt tempted to abandon my ride and step in for a pint.
However, the primary allure for me was that this pub was owned by a sports legend. Two decades ago, I witnessed Gavin Henson make a historic kick in Welsh rugby history, propelling Wales to victory over England in a pivotal match. This kick marked a turning point in Welsh rugby, with Henson’s fame skyrocketing alongside his celebrity relationship with singer Charlotte Church during the mid-to-late 2000s.
Beyond his celebrity status, Henson was a highly skilled and dedicated athlete who captivated people with his unique persona. Although he once thrived in the limelight, today he prefers a quieter life in St Brides Major, near his hometown. In 2019, he and his wife, Katie, took over The Fox pub, which underwent a significant renovation and reopened in early 2020, receiving praise for its food and hospitality.
Upon entering the pub, the warm and inviting atmosphere instantly made me feel at home. With its tasteful decor, including flagstone flooring, cozy seating, and festive Christmas adornments, the pub exuded a welcoming charm. As I enjoyed a Butty Bach ale and Jeremy Clarkson’s Hawkstone lager, I perused the menu offerings.
Opting for the Sunday menu, we savored crispy ham hock with confit egg yolk, fennel, and apple, as well as a cod and salmon fishcake with samphire and caper butter. For our main courses, we indulged in roast sirloin of Welsh beef and shoulder of Welsh lamb, both impeccably prepared and accompanied by a delectable array of sides. The meal was capped off with tempting dessert options, but our satisfied appetites left us too full to indulge further.
The bill, totaling £91 for two starters, two mains, two kids’ meals, beverages, and a fruit juice, offered excellent value for the quality of the dining experience. The cozy ambiance, exceptional food, and friendly service left a lasting impression, prompting thoughts of a return visit—a sentiment echoed by fellow patrons nearby. Overall, my experience at The Fox was delightful, encapsulated in the sentiment of being “definitely gonna come back,” even if I missed the chance to catch a glimpse of a sporting hero.