Windsor is instantly recognized by many as home to one of the world’s oldest royal residences. However, this picturesque town in Berkshire has recently seen a surge in a different kind of tourism. Instead of hoping to catch a glimpse of the Changing of the Guard, cyclists are now flocking to the area for something far more practical – a discounted cappuccino.
The Cinnamon Café has become a destination for two-wheeled travelers, offering what it calls a ‘Lycra discount’ – a 10 per cent reduction on all food and drinks. This unique deal has attracted a growing number of Londoners who are making the journey to Windsor specifically for what has been dubbed the ‘Bun run’.
This trend has not gone unnoticed, with reports highlighting how the influx of cyclists has sparked mixed reactions among locals. Hugh Nixon, an 84-year-old resident, described how the ‘Lycra discount’ has transformed Windsor into a cycling hub. He noted that local drivers often find it challenging to navigate the town due to the large groups of cyclists on the roads.
Café owner Ian Jones explained that the initiative was introduced to encourage less reliance on cars, especially given the limited parking available in the town. He emphasized that the discount is open to both residents and visitors, provided they arrive by bicycle. To support this, the café has installed cycle racks so that customers can securely park their bikes while they enjoy a break.
The rise in cycling is not just a local phenomenon. The capital is experiencing a significant boom in bike usage, with over nine million Santander Cycle hires recorded up to October 2025. This represents a four per cent increase compared to the same period in the previous year, according to data from contractor Serco.
In response to this growing trend, councils across the country have invested heavily in the development of cycle ‘superhighways’. These dedicated routes aim to boost cycling numbers while reducing car use and traffic congestion in urban areas.
However, the increased presence of cyclists has also led to new legal challenges. A recent piece of legislation has introduced stricter penalties for dangerous cycling. Under the new law, causing death through dangerous cycling is now punishable by up to life imprisonment.
As the popularity of cycling continues to rise, towns like Windsor are adapting to accommodate this shift. From special discounts at local cafés to improved infrastructure, communities are finding ways to support and integrate this mode of transport.
With more people turning to bicycles for both leisure and commuting, the future of urban mobility looks increasingly pedal-powered. Whether it’s for a quick coffee or a long-distance ride, the road ahead seems to be paved with opportunities for cyclists.
