As a student, finding a reliable coffee shop to study in is essential, and I’ve concluded that The Bike Lock always delivers the best experience.
It is hard to resist the inviting presence of The Bike Lock. With an array of caffeinated drinks and freshly made bites, the café entices you inside to explore what’s on offer. Although a delicious menu is only the tip of the iceberg.
Opening its doors in 2022, The Bike Lock charmed their customers with friendly, efficient staff and a unique brand ethos. The cafe’s vision is to encourage people to be more active. Therefore, having a place where people can keep their bikes in a secure location is essential.
Hamlet Valle, the coffee manager says, “It’s a social enterprise which helps people move more and keeps their bikes safe.”
The cafe also transforms into an events space which is available for members of the community to use.
“We have cycling events, church events, parties and we do catering,” said Hamlet. “Community is very important.”
With a passion for creating a space that promotes an active lifestyle, The Bike Lock supports the Critical Mass for Cyclists, a group of people who meet for a monthly cycle to advocate for improved safety for cyclists.
Although The Bike Lock is popular among avid cyclists, the cafe is often bustling with a range of customers intent on treating themselves to the “best coffee ever” as Hamlet puts it. (Which I also agree with!)
Being in the heart of the city, university students frequently visit the cafe to catch up with friends or use as a place to do work.
Tamsin, a student, enjoys studying in The Bike Lock saying, “It’s calm in here, it’s not too noisy and the staff are really friendly.”
Izzy, a student, shared more positive thoughts about the cafe. “It’s a good working atmosphere, there’s good lighting in here, it’s not too dark and the music is relaxing.”
The Bike Lock does more than your average coffee shop, by serving as a community hub for whoever decides to walk through their door.