It’s All About the Coffee and Cake: London & Surrey’s Best Cycling Pitstops

Cycling out through London’s dramatic urban landscape into the lanes of the picture-perfect Surrey Hills can be a beautiful experience, but what truly elevates the journey are the plentiful opportunities for an indulgent pit stop along the way. There are cafes, pubs and delis offering welcoming respite for weary cyclists, serving up not only delicious food and refreshing drinks but also a sense of community that every cyclist cherishes. Let’s look at the best of the bunch.

Heartwork Coffee Bar (Holmbury St Mary, Surrey)

If you want the quintessential Surrey village Holmbury St Mary is it and tucked away on a working farm is Heartwork Coffee Bar. A hot spot for all types of cyclists, it’s the perfect half-way point on many loops. Great coffee, cakes and sandwiches served from a converted horse box and barns turned into comfortable seating areas. There is ample racking to hang your bike, so sit back and take in the rustic charm.     

The Queen Stage (Effingham, Surrey)

Previously an old man’s boozer, the building has been given a new lease of life as a cycling themed destination. Still a boozer at heart, but now with great food (including top-grade coffee and cakes) and well-appointed guest rooms. Always busy with cyclists, use as a base to explore the Surrey Hills or loop it into your next club ride for a well-earned rest.

Rapha Clubhouse (London)

For cycling enthusiasts seeking a touch of luxury, the Rapha Clubhouse in London is an ideal early or late ride stop. Known for its premium cycling clobber, the clubhouse offers a more refined cafe experience with expertly brewed coffee and a delectable selection of cakes and snacks. The atmosphere here is perfect for relaxing and sharing cycling tales with fellow riders.

G!RO (Esher, Surrey)

Nestled in the picturesque town of Esher, G!RO is a haven for cyclists exploring the Surrey countryside en route from London. With its cycling-themed decor and a range of specialty coffees, this cafe fuels riders with energy before or after their adventures. The menu boasts a variety of mouthwatering dishes, catering to diverse tastes – plus the option of a cheeky craft ale!

Peaslake Village Stores (Peaslake, Surrey)

A stalwart stop-off for the mountain biking community in Surrey – this is more than just a corner shop! Famed for it’s deli counter and fresh produce, pies and sandwiches are in abundance. But the real stars of the show are their legendary cheese straws fresh from the oven. So grab a couple of those, a hot mug of tea and sit at the bus stop opposite to refuel for your next run.

The Dabbling Duck (Shere, Surrey)

Embracing the quaint charm of Shere village, The Dabbling Duck is a vibrant café come deli that warmly welcomes cyclists (they’ll always be a good collection of bikes outside). Stop for a coffee and light bite or dive into a full-on afternoon tea, either way this is an excellent spot to relax after a day of pedalling through the scenic Surrey Hills.

Box Hill Cafe (Tadworth, Surrey)

Sitting atop the famous Box Hill, this newly refurbished cafe caters to the vast cycling community visiting the iconic destination. After conquering the climb, cyclists can reward themselves with delicious homemade cakes, sandwiches, and locally sourced treats while enjoying stunning vistas from the cafe's terrace.

Pistachios in the Park (Multiple Locations)

With several locations spread across London and Surrey's parks, Pistachios in the Park is a family-friendly oasis. Cyclists can enjoy panoramic views of green spaces while savouring a wide array of homemade cakes, snacks, and light meals, making it an ideal pit stop for those cycling with children.

Cinnamon Café (Windsor, Berkshire)

Ok, so it’s not in Surrey, but many a ride starting in London loops out toward this firm cyclist’s favourite before heading back to the Smoke. Run by riders who know that top quality coffee and cakes are a must to fuel that return leg. You won’t feel out of place here clip-clopping around in your cycling shoes and Sunday-best lycra – and your bike will feel at home in the dedicated parking area!

So whether you're cycling through the bustling streets of London or exploring the serene landscapes of Surrey, these eclectic cycling pit stops add an extra layer of joy to your journey. From expertly brewed coffee to mouthwatering meals and a sense of camaraderie among fellow cyclists – be sure to plan one into your next ride. Happy cycling and bon appétit!