Thirty-two years after setting out to get more people in Bristol onto two wheels, the founders of the city’s iconic Mud Dock Cycleworks say they have well and truly achieved their goal and are now ready to swap selling bikes for spending more time riding them.
The bike shop will remain open until the end of August; the cafe is unaffected.
Having sold their 15,000th bicycle since opening in 1994, co-founders Jerry Arron, 70, and his wife Beverly, 60, have announced that the Cycleworks bike shop will close at the end of August. It’s a moment that marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Bristol’s cycling story – though emphatically not the end of Mud Dock itself. The ever-popular Mud Dock Café, upstairs at the same waterfront location, remains unaffected and is now open longer hours.
“We’re fortunate to have worked with some of the best people and brands in the industry. Back in the ’90s, this was just a dream of two 20-something bike-loving design escapees from London!” says Jerry. “Our then-unique take on how bicycle retail could change, coupled with the new sport of mountain biking and its speed of innovation, produced the most exciting times. For more than 30 years we’ve been helping Bristolians enjoy life on two wheels – something that’s been good for them, good for Bristol and good for the planet. I’m happy with that legacy.”
Beverly is equally proud of what the pair have built. “It’s been an incredible, enjoyable and massively fulfilling journey. As well as numerous new faces, we’ve seen countless repeat customers over the years – people who’ve come back for second, third and fourth bikes for themselves – or to buy bikes for spouses and then their children. And the best bit is the number of staff and customers who have become friends.”
For Bristol’s cycling community, the news comes with a considerable silver lining. To clear remaining stock ahead of the closure, Mud Dock Cycleworks will be offering some extraordinary deals.
“I guess we’ll be selling everything off at prices less than we were selling them for thirty years ago!” says Jerry. From top-end carbon road bikes and practical everyday e-bikes to balance bikes for the toddler-sized Tour de France winners of tomorrow, everything must go – and go quickly. The bike shop closes at the end of August, so anyone keen to snap up a bargain should visit soon.
Meanwhile, those visiting for food and drink need not worry about a thing. Mud Dock Café, which is upstairs from the bike shop, continues to thrive. It’s famous for its relaxed atmosphere, commitment to fresh ingredients from local suppliers, and stunning views over the floating harbour. With the addition of a wedding licence a few years ago, it’s also a unique venue for wedding ceremonies and receptions as well as private and corporate events.
The contents of the workshop have been listed for sale. With mention in the listing that the premises may be available via separate negotiation.
