The Golden Sausage: Help us find Britain’s best biker café
Loomies is a brilliant place to stop while exploring the wonderful South Downs
This week our search for Britain’s best biking café takes us to the South Downs, where one of the region’s most established meeting spots, Loomies Moto Café, sits amidst some of the best riding roads in the south of England.
It seems hard to believe now, but just three years ago Loomies was in danger of disappearing for good. Luckily, a new owner came forward in the shape of Paul Fullick, who stepped in to ensure that this popular hangout has not only survived, but has gone on to thrive. “It’s been a real labour of love,” said Paul. “We love the place, we love the people and we all love bikes. Every accountant told us not to do it, yet here we are.” The passion invested by Paul and his team is apparent in the attention to detail, from the helmet store and visor-wash station to the toolbox coffee table and engine-block cutlery holder and, of course, the food. “It took us months just to find the right sausage,” says Paul. “We now have our own butcher and go above and beyond to source the best ingredients locally.” MCN put the ‘Track Hero’ breakfast to the test, and can confirm that those top-quality ingredients really do make a difference. But whether you choose the full fry-up or one of Loomies’ trademark gourmet burgers, be sure to leave room for cake! Manager Sally and trained pastry chef Charles ensure that a delicious selection of baked goodies is always available. Sadly, the signature Guinness cake had just sold out, but word is it’s worth coming back for. The great thing about Loomies is that it feels more like a clubhouse than a café, where the staff treat customers like family. Just ask ‘Loomies Parliament’, who have been regulars since day one. “We’d be lost if it didn’t exist,” says spokesman John Hammond. “For companionship and meeting likeminded people, it can’t be beaten. Some of us are here five times a week!”