On a chilly and damp winter’s day, there’s nothing quite like the warm ambiance of a cozy country pub. I had been eager to visit a charming country pub nestled in a small village in Vale of Glamorgan for several reasons. Firstly, it had built a solid reputation for its delectable food offerings. Secondly, having cycled past it numerous times, I often found myself tempted to abandon the bike and step in for a refreshing pint.
However, the most compelling reason for my visit was that this pub is owned by a renowned sports figure. Two decades ago, I was among the spectators when Gavin Henson executed a remarkable and pivotal kick in Welsh rugby history. Despite not being Wales’ primary kicker that day, Henson’s courageous 44-meter kick from an extremely challenging angle secured a triumphant victory over England in Cardiff, ushering in a new era for Welsh rugby.
Henson, known for his distinctive appearance with spiky hair, bronzed skin, shaved legs, and impressive physique, rose to stardom and became one half of a celebrity power couple with singer Charlotte Church in the mid-to-late 2000s, earning the moniker “Welsh Posh and Becks.” Beyond his celebrity status, Henson was admired for his exceptional athletic prowess and dedication. While known for his penchant for standing out, Henson captivated people with his charismatic persona.
In 2019, Henson and his wife, Katie, took over The Fox, a move that garnered attention due to Henson’s involvement, evident by a distinctive black Bentley parked nearby. Following a significant renovation, the pub reopened in February 2020, just before the onset of the Covid pandemic, receiving praise for its cuisine and hospitality, with Henson personally attending to guests. Subsequently, the pub faced challenges in finding a new head chef amidst the hospitality industry’s crisis exacerbated by the pandemic and Brexit fallout.
Presently, The Fox exudes a timeless charm and comfort that belies its recent establishment. The interior exudes a blend of homeliness and sophistication, featuring flagstone flooring, tasteful blue and off-white walls, rustic wooden furniture, and elegant Christmas decor. Settling at a cozy corner table, we savored Butty Bach ale and Jeremy Clarkson’s Hawkstone lager while perusing the menu offerings.
The Sunday menu, though concise, presented enticing options with crispy ham hock and cod-salmon fishcake as appetizers. For the main course, we relished roast Welsh beef sirloin and shoulder of Welsh lamb, accompanied by a delightful array of sides. Despite being too full for desserts, the menu promised delectable options like sticky toffee pudding and chocolate orange marquise.
The total bill for our meal, including starters, mains, kids’ meals, beverages, and juice, came to a reasonable £91. The inviting ambiance of The Fox left me feeling right at home, a sentiment echoed by fellow diners expressing intentions to return. In essence, my experience can be summed up in the words of a satisfied diner nearby: “definitely gonna come back,” capturing the essence of this charming establishment.