Ace Cafe London

The Ace Cafe stands beside the North Circular Road in the London Borough of Brent. Built in 1938 for passing traffic, it became a meeting place for young motorcyclists in the 1950s and 1960s. After closing in 1969, it reopened in 1997 as a cafe and events venue. The building sits between the Grand Union Canal and Stonebridge Park Depot. Its 1949 rebuild followed wartime damage from an air raid on nearby railway yards. The cafe is worth the journey for its role in motorcycle culture and rock’n’roll history. Bands and groups formed here, and the 59 Club began nearby under Biker Reverend Bill Shergold. Since reopening, it has hosted international bike and car meets organised by Mark Wilsmore. The original 59 Club members supported its revival, and themed meetings draw riders from many countries. Films such as The Leather Boys and TV shows including Fifth Gear have used the site as a backdrop. Visitors find a refurbished cafe with a large events space and a busy calendar of gatherings. Rockers and classic car owners attend monthly meets and special events. The interior mixes vintage charm with modern facilities, while the car park hosts restorations and unveilings. Nearby Stonebridge Park station makes it easy to reach. The cafe’s walls display memorabilia from its decades of history.