Velolife Le Tour de Gateaux

Cycling is a miserable old sport. Flat tyres, punishing climbs, grazed knees and the unpredictable British weather make you wonder why anyone would bother doing it at all. But if, after miles and miles of endless pedalling and panting, you happen to stumble across a pitstop as perfect as Velolife cafe, you’ll start to understand. With its wholesome food, thick, hearty desserts, and seriously good brews, it’s the ideal place for any cyclist to rest their weary legs and refill their dwindling reserves with coffee and cake. And it’s a place where I found a home away from home during the time we called ‘COVID’. Situated in the sleepy village of Warren Row, the independent cafe appears as a mirage just beyond the summit of Remenham Hill, and whether you’re desperate for a break or not, its warm and friendly atmosphere draws you inside. You immediately feel at home as South African owner Lee, his family, plus a few extra welcoming faces, greet you with a wave and a smile. I first discovered the cafe one day in 2020, when I was desperate to leave the house. It was the first pandemic summer, and after having been cooped up inside for weeks on end, I just needed to do somethingor see someone. So I headed out for a long walk and came across Velolife by chance. I then struck up a conversation with the staff, and immediately fell in love with the place. I loved it so much in fact, that I even ended up working my weekends there, despite having a 9-5 job. And bar the odd plonker of a customer, it didn’t feel like work at all. It’s those weekends that the place comes alive, thanks to its notoriety amongst local cyclists, as droves of two-wheel enthusiasts flock to the cafe and share their passion for their sport and their community. You’ll find riders of all shapes, sizes and abilities from right across the cycling world. Most are only there for a quick visit, but they often ‘accidentally’ stay longer. When there’s a big race on, you’re sure to find all eyes glued to the TV scr...