There are few things as welcoming as a warmly glowing country pub on a cold and wet winter's day. The Fox, in the Vale of Glamorgan village of St Brides Major, is exactly that. Owned by Welsh rugby legend and former Strictly star Gavin Henson, the pub has a reputation for excellent food and a warm welcome.
Henson, who famously kicked Wales to victory against England in 2005, took over The Fox with his wife Katie in 2019. After a major renovation, it reopened in February 2020, just as the pandemic hit. Despite early challenges, the pub now feels established and comfortable, with flagstone flooring, rustic wooden tables, and classy Christmas decorations.
The Sunday menu is short but appealing. Starters of crispy ham hock with confit egg yolk (£9) and cod and salmon fishcake with samphire and caper butter (£9) were both well-executed. For mains, roast sirloin of Welsh beef (£23) and shoulder of Welsh lamb (£23) were generous and flavourful, served with roast potatoes, buttery mash, vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, and gravy.
With a pint of Butty Bach ale (£5) and a Hawkstone lager (£7), the total for two courses and drinks came to £37 per person. The experience was summed up in four words: 'homely, stylish, delicious, welcoming'.
