On a chilly and rainy winter day, a cozy country pub exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere. The allure of this charming country pub in a quaint Vale of Glamorgan village captivated me for several reasons. Firstly, it boasted a stellar reputation for its exceptional cuisine. Secondly, having cycled past it numerous times, I often found myself tempted to abandon my bike and step inside for a pint.
The most compelling reason, however, was the pub’s ownership by a renowned sports figure. Two decades ago, I witnessed Gavin Henson deliver a legendary kick in Welsh rugby history that marked a turning point for the sport. Despite not being the primary kicker for Wales that day, Henson’s remarkable 44-meter kick from a challenging angle secured victory over England in Cardiff, ushering in a new era for Welsh rugby.
Known for his distinctive appearance, including spiky hair, bronzed skin, shaved legs, and impressive physique, Henson rose to stardom and formed a high-profile couple with singer Charlotte Church, earning them the moniker “Welsh Posh and Becks.” His celebrity status extended to appearances on popular shows like Strictly Come Dancing and The Bachelor.
However, beyond his celebrity image, Henson was a highly skilled and dedicated athlete who captivated audiences with his charisma. Despite his past flamboyance, a recent podcast shed light on Henson’s current preference for a low-key life in the tranquil village of St Brides Major near his hometown, where he prioritizes family over fame, rarely granting interviews or engaging with the media.
In 2019, Henson and his wife, Katie, assumed ownership of The Fox, where a black Bentley parked nearby hinted at his presence. Following a significant refurbishment, the pub reopened in February 2020, only to face challenges due to the pandemic and Brexit, which led to a search for a new head chef amid the hospitality industry crisis.
Presently, The Fox exudes a timeless charm and comfort that belies its recent establishment. The interior, adorned with flagstone flooring, elegant blue and white walls, rustic wooden furnishings, and tasteful Christmas decor, exudes a blend of homeliness and sophistication. Settling into a cozy corner table, we savored Butty Bach ale and Jeremy Clarkson’s Hawkstone lager while perusing the menu.
The concise Sunday menu featured enticing options, such as crispy ham hock with confit egg yolk, fennel, and apple, and a cod and salmon fishcake with samphire and caper butter. For the main course, we indulged in roast Welsh beef sirloin and shoulder of Welsh lamb, both accompanied by a delectable array of sides, including roast potatoes, buttery mashed potatoes, and seasonal vegetables.
Our dining experience culminated in a satisfying bill for two starters, two mains, children’s meals, beverages, and a fruit juice, amounting to a reasonable total. Immersed in the welcoming ambiance, I found myself reluctant to depart, echoing the sentiments of fellow diners who expressed a desire to return, encapsulating my own conclusion perfectly, despite my regret at missing a glimpse of my sporting idol.
