Staff at Lock 7 are capable of adjusting gears and working on hydraulic breaks but they also do a mean espresso.

The Venue
Totally unpretentious, Lock 7 is a no-nonsense cycle cafe. In between the frames, tires, rims and panniers plus a few whole bikes hanging from the ceiling as decoration, there’s space for several simple wooden tables. A nice romantic view of the canal is counterbalanced by the open bicycle workshop just past the entrance, and a large mural outside adds an arty edge to the space, which is altogether uncomplicated and relaxed.

The Atmosphere
Having a bike in need of a fix fully justifies a trip to Lock 7, although most customers come in without an excuse. Bikes being the biggest new trend in town, this café is popular – verging on hip – and you’ll see many typical East London types sipping their lattes. The staff’s attitude remains practical and approachable and the atmosphere is relaxed and non judgemental, despite a proliferation of cool sunglasses and edgy hairdos.

The Food
Food is served until 5pm but the selection is oriented towards healthy traditional options best sampled as a power breakfast before cycling to work. Choices include muesli with fruit yogurt and honey (£3.70), porridge with fruit jam (£3.20), fresh fruit salad (£2.50), scrambled egg on toast (£3.20), beans on toast (£2.30), toasted bagel with cream cheese, marmite, peanut butter, hummus and more.

Alternatively, you can stop by for lunch and choose from bagels, ciabattas or baked potatoes filled with your choice of ingredients including halloumi, brie, pesto, chorizo, artichokes, sun dried tomatoes and more.

The Drink
Pick from you usual selection of lattes (also served iced), cappuccinos, macchiatos, espressos, black or white coffees, hot chocolates, teas and other hot drinks (£1.20 - £2.20). Alternatively you can order a fruit smoothie (£3) made with kiwi, banana, strawberry, ginger, apple, carrot and pineapple. And for something cool on the go, you can help yourself to something from the chiller, including Coke in glass bottle, Purdey’s and a wide range of Chegworth Valley apple and pear juices.

The Last Word
Whether you need to have your brakes tuned or are just browsing the latest Nutcase helmets, the cycle cafe Lock 7 is an ideal spot for a powerful breakfast or a relaxing afternoon snack with views of the canal.

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