On a chilly and damp winter day, there’s nothing quite as inviting as the warm ambiance of a quaint country pub. The allure of this charming establishment in a picturesque Vale of Glamorgan village beckoned me for several reasons. Firstly, its stellar reputation for delectable cuisine had piqued my interest. Secondly, having cycled past it numerous times, I often felt the urge to abandon my bike and indulge in a refreshing pint.
However, the most compelling reason for my visit was the fact that this pub is under the ownership of a renowned sports figure. I vividly recall being part of the crowd two decades ago when Gavin Henson executed a monumental kick that secured a historic victory for Welsh rugby. Henson, with his distinctive appearance and remarkable athletic prowess, rose to stardom alongside singer Charlotte Church, earning the moniker of the “Welsh Posh and Becks” in the media.
Beyond his celebrity status, Henson’s dedication to his craft and penchant for standing out endeared him to fans. Despite his past ventures in entertainment, a recent podcast sheds light on Henson’s current preference for a low-key family life in St Brides Major, near his hometown. In 2019, he and his wife, Katie, took over The Fox, a pub that underwent a successful renovation before facing challenges due to the pandemic and Brexit-related issues.
Stepping into the pub, I immediately felt at ease in its cozy yet stylish interior adorned with festive Christmas decorations. Sampling Butty Bach ale and Jeremy Clarkson’s Hawkstone lager, we perused the menu, which offered a concise selection of Sunday specials. Our choices of crispy ham hock and cod and salmon fishcake for starters delighted our taste buds with their crispy exteriors and flavorful fillings.
For the main course, we savored roast sirloin of Welsh beef and shoulder of Welsh lamb, both impeccably prepared and accompanied by a medley of delectable sides. Despite our satisfaction, we reluctantly skipped dessert, impressed by the reasonable pricing of our meal. The welcoming atmosphere and quality of the dining experience left a lasting impression, echoing the sentiments of fellow patrons eager to return.
Overall, our bill for two starters, two mains, two kids’ meals, beverages, and a fruit juice totaled £91, offering excellent value for the exceptional dining experience. The enduring charm and culinary excellence of The Fox left me yearning for a return visit, embodying the sentiment shared by other patrons captivated by the pub’s allure.