Ride the South Downs

If you’re looking for great riding in the south of England you can’t help but be drawn to the rolling chalk hills of the South Downs. Its network of flowing A and technical B roads is accessible throughout the year and is a popular draw to riders from right across the region. But although there are many amazing routes to be ridden, there is only one destination to head for when it comes to a brew, some brekkie or just to hang out and that is Loomies Café in West Meon, at the junction of the A32 and A272.

Loomies has been a regular biker’s haunt for going on a decade (and far longer if you count its previous incarnation as a Little Chef), but since being saved from closure two years ago by a couple of long standing customers this fantastic venue has gone from strength to strength. ‘If it wasn’t here, where would we go?’ says Paul Fullick, who stepped in to keep this beloved meet on the map. ‘Our customer base is akin to a family; we know all our regulars and have a core group who practically live here! 

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Every member of staff is a biker and it’s perhaps unsurprising that Loomies feels more like a clubhouse than a café. Anyone is guaranteed of a warm welcome and there are some great touches such as a helmet rack, visor cleaning station and of course the ‘snug end’, an encirclement of comfy sofas with a video projector and wood burning stove to warm your cockles on a cold winter’s ride. 

Wednesday night is bike night with late closing at 10pm, but there are other regular events throughout the year including dealer demo days and the once monthly visit of All Year Biker, who by a pre arranged appointment will give your bike a proper deep clean and treat it with ACF50 whilst you lounge with a cuppa.

Loomies works closely with several charities including the Hampshire Air Ambulance and offers a ‘forces discount’ to ex-military personnel and members of the emergency services.

Where is it? Alton Road, West Meon GU32 1JX

When is it? Open 7 days a week (late closing on Weds)

How to get in touch? Facebook page: @Loomiesmotocafe

Website: www.LoomiesCafe.co.uk

Phone: 01730 239440

How to get in touch? 

Don’t forget, this is a great way to rack up some miles for MCN’s #ride5000miles campaign.

If you want to get your meet in MCN, email: sam.williams@motorcyclenews.com

Looking for the perfect two-wheeled companion? Visit MCN Bikes For Sale website or use MCN’s Bikes For Sale App.