A cozy country pub on a chilly winter day is a warm and inviting sight. The appeal of this charming country pub in a quaint Vale of Glamorgan village captured my interest for several reasons. Firstly, its excellent food reputation drew me in. Secondly, having passed by it numerous times while cycling, I often had the urge to abandon the bike and step in for a pint.
However, the primary reason for my visit was the fact that this pub is under the ownership of a renowned sports figure. I vividly recall being among the spectators two decades ago when Gavin Henson executed a pivotal and memorable kick in Welsh rugby history. Despite not being the designated kicker for Wales on that day, Henson courageously took the shot in the final minutes of the game against England in Cardiff. With Wales trailing by a single point, he successfully landed a 44-meter kick from a remarkably challenging angle, leading Wales to victory and marking a significant moment in Welsh rugby.
Henson, recognized for his distinctive appearance with spiky hair, bronzed skin, shaved legs, and impressive physique, rose to fame as a sports superstar. Alongside singer Charlotte Church, Henson formed a high-profile couple often featured in UK tabloids and Heat magazine during the mid-to-late 2000s, earning the moniker “Welsh Posh and Becks.” His ventures into entertainment included participation in Strictly Come Dancing and a role in The Bachelor.
Beyond his celebrity status, Henson was highly skilled and dedicated in his athletic pursuits. Known for his charismatic persona, he often stood out and garnered public admiration. Anecdotes such as a journalist dyeing his hair red to impress Henson during an interview highlight the impact he had on people. Despite his past media presence, a recent podcast sheds light on Henson’s current inclination towards a private family life in the tranquil village of St Brides Major, near his childhood home. He now shies away from the limelight, rarely granting interviews and declining involvement in a BBC podcast, emphasizing his preference for a low-key existence.
In 2019, Henson and his wife, Katie, assumed ownership of The Fox, a move marked by a conspicuous black Bentley in the car park hinting at his involvement. Following a significant refurbishment, the pub reopened in February 2020, only to face closure due to the Covid pandemic shortly after receiving praise for its cuisine and hospitality. Henson himself actively engaged with patrons, enhancing the dining experience. Two years later, the pub made headlines again as it urgently sought a new head chef amidst challenges stemming from the pandemic and Brexit impact on the hospitality sector.
Presently, The Fox exudes a timeless charm, evoking a sense of comfort and elegance. Stepping inside felt like entering a welcoming haven, boasting flagstone flooring, classic blue and off-white walls, rustic wooden furnishings, and tasteful Christmas
