CAKE STOP INDEPENDENT PEDALER, CANTERBURY
Head to this hip cafe that’s well-positioned for cyclists with locally sourced produce
“Lovely environment, owned and run by previous professional cyclists, for cyclists” Angela Mills
“Yes, it’s almost achingly hipster, but quality food, tranquil atmosphere and I love the mags and books” Rob Cooper
“Hidden away but a good stop during or after a ride if you like your coffee” Piotr Nowak
Down at its south-east corner, the ‘Garden of England’ offers the cycling pilgrim more than a visit to historic Canterbury. The A2 may have changed a bit since Chaucer’s time, but rural day-riding around this part of Kent is as good as anywhere, with characterful and individual towns (Sandwich, Ramsgate, Broadstairs, Whitstable), lovely rich countryside, fine pubs, mild weather and cool cafes.
If quality coffee, artisan food and the spirit of Marco Pantani is the sort of quest you had in mind, then the Independent Pedaler five miles south of Canterbury, just off the A2 or NCN16, is the place to head for a trendy, premium-price, cool cycle-cafe vibe. Cheap and cheerful tea-and-cake local it ain’t.
The Independent Pedaler is in a large, light, classily converted warehouse. Unusually situated in an industrial estate outside the town of Bridge, it’s a handy base for car-based day riders. Bikes and racing memorabilia adorn the walls – including one of Pantani’s bikes – and there’s a reading area with bike books and magazines to browse. Meat and vegetables – even the crisps, wine and beer – are locally sourced and seasonal. Bread is artisan sourdough (of course) and there are vegetarian and vegan options. Basic spares, tools and a track pump are available for minor mechanicals. theindependentpedaler.co.uk
SIGNATURE DISH
Bike-themed panini: ‘Tour’, ‘Giro’ and our choice, ‘Vuelta’ (chicken, cheddar, red peppers)
SHOWSTOPPER
For breakfast buffs: avocado sourdough toast with smoked salmon and poached egg
I’M A COFFEE SNOB, HOW’S THE FLAT WHITE?
Single-origin 100 per cent Arabica, £2.75, all quality and on-trend, with organic and fairtrade options
KEY STRAVA SEGMENT
Bridge Hill, 0.61 miles, average grade 5%, elevation gain 148ft, 19,767 attempts by 4,467 People
KOM Tom Lowther 1.45, 20/09/2019 QOM Tinchi F 2.19 07/05/2018