By Sadhbh O'Shea
LONDON (CYCLINGTIPS) — Iconic bike café and workshop Look Mum No Hands! has closed for good.
In a post on the company website Wednesday, the owners described how the pandemic had impacted the business, which was based in the heart of London, as well as the subsequent changes in lifestyle.
The news also comes amid a cost-of-living crisis with fuel, food, and material prices soaring.
"We're so sad to tell you that Lmnh! shut its big black gates for the final time last Sunday. Like everyone in hospitality, the past three years have been very difficult for us and although we did our best to survive, we've come to the end of our time on Old Street. Both the cafe and the workshop are now closed," a post on the website read.
"We'd like to thank all of our customers from our thirteen years. If you've ever enjoyed a coffee, a beer, or pie; bought a cap, a mug, a jersey, or pants; or if we've fixed your puncture or built you some wheels; If you've come to watch the Tour de France, the BFF, meet your friends, run your event, or even just to scab the WiFi; THANK YOU! You were the reason we came to work in the morning."
Look Mum No Hands! was opened in 2010 and it became a hugely popular hotspot for the UK capital's cyclists and cycling fans and was a "must-visit" for many traveling to the area.
It regularly screened races as well as cycling-focused films and, on occasion, played host to Eurosport's live show during the Tour de France. It was one of the few places where racing enthusiasts could gather to watch events in big numbers.
As well as a café and workshop, it featured a bar and exhibition space, while it also branched out into live comedy and music. Its departure will leave a major hole in the London cycling scene.
"We'd also like to thank everyone who has joined the Lmnh! team over the years," the post continued. "We've been blessed with some amazing people and we'd be nothing without them: baristas, bike mechanics, chefs, KPs, front of house, marketing and communications, product development, and in the online shop.
"Particular thanks to the current team who have been through tough times with us. Adrian, Andrea, Arthur, Chak, David C, Big Dave, Donovan, Duke, Franky, Hanna, Ieva, Jasmin, Kazu, Laura, Liam, Rachel, Ross, and Zak. Thank you for everything you've done, we're so sorry it had to end this way.
"When we started in 2010, we didn't have much of a plan, we just wanted a nice place to work, somewhere we'd like to spend our time. Sometimes it's best to just get on your bike and start pedaling. The best rides are not really about the destination but the things you see, the snacks you eat, and the friends you make along the way. Is this the end? We're not sure but keep an eye on our socials and perhaps we'll be back once we've had a breather."
