This is a sponsored article on behalf of Rapha.
Cycling in London is on the rise. Less traffic on the roads and a plea to avoid public transport during lockdown inspired many a Londoner to take their bicycle for a spin. But whether you're a new convert to life on two wheels, or you're a dyed-in-the-lycra road racer, you need to know about Rapha's London Clubhouse.
Located in the heart of Soho, the Clubhouse is a shop, exhibition space and social hub that's totally dedicated to cycling. It's been a staple of the city's cycling community for nearly a decade and — following a major renovation — it's now bigger and better than ever.
Now almost twice its original size, the Clubhouse is more than a place to pick up Rapha's premium sportswear. As well as a bigger product range, the brand's flagship destination also boasts a larger cafe area, and a new experiential space dedicated to celebrating the culture of cycling.
The first exhibition to occupy this new space is Stitches In Time, a retrospective on Rapha's iconic cycling jersey from its 2004 launch in London to a headline-grabbing collaboration with Palace Skateboards at last year's Giro D'Italia.
As well as exhibitions, the London Clubhouse is hosting regular talks and workshops led by leading figures in the cycling community. Then there are Rapha's daily group rides, which cater to a variety of skill levels and interests.
If you're new to road cycling, why not sign up for the Tuesday morning beginners' ride? It follows a scenic route around Regent's Park, with speed capped at a leisurely 25kph. There's also a women's-only closed-circuit option and a hilly North London ride to boost your climbing prowess. If that's not enough, you can also join the Rapha Cycling Club for access to exclusive member-only rides and events and be part of an active community of London cyclists.
Need a bit more motivation to take your cycling up a notch? That's where Rapha's extensive range of cyclewear comes in. With upgraded fitting rooms and personal shopping available, it's now easier than ever to find the shorts, jerseys, outerwear or accessories you need for a safe, stylish and comfortable ride, whatever the weather.
If all that shopping tires you out, you don't have to go far to grab a pick-me-up: the Clubhouse cafe offers a rotating roster of guest coffees from the UK's best independent roasteries, as well as its own house blend created in partnership with Colonna Coffee. What's more, this April, the cafe is treating Londonist readers to a coffee on the house — just show this article to your barista to claim your exclusive freebie*.
In a nutshell, Rapha's London Clubhouse is a home from home for all cycling enthusiasts, with newbies just as welcome as experienced riders. Click here to plan your visit.
Rapha's London Clubhouse, 85 Brewer Street (Soho). Open Monday to Saturday, 8am-7pm, and 11am-5pm on Sundays.
*The Rapha Clubhouse has a maximum of 100 hot drinks to give away each day. Each customer may redeem one free standard hot drink a day. This includes espresso, americano, short black, hot chocolate, tea, cappuccino, macchiato and latte.
