Introduction
Today I’m back at the legendary Ace Café London, capturing a day packed with roaring engines, iconic machines, passionate riders, and a rare interview with the man who brought the Ace Café back to life — Mark Wilsmore. From the SlowBoys motorcycle ride-out to the annual Audi Quattro meet, this day had everything.
Morning at the Ace Cafe
I arrived early to find the forecourt already buzzing. Bikes were rolling in, engines revving, and the unmistakable Ace Café energy filling the air.
- Groups of riders gathering
- SlowBoys members preparing for their ride-out
- Audi Quattro owners arriving from across the country
- Sunny weather is bringing everyone out
Even without a scheduled motorcycle event, the Ace Café naturally becomes a meeting point for riders heading out for scenic runs.
Meeting Mark Wilsmore – The Man Behind the Ace Cafe Revival
One of the highlights of the day was speaking with Mark Wilsmore, the man responsible for reopening the Ace Café after it originally closed in 1969.
Mark’s Story
- The Ace Café first opened in 1938
- Closed in 1969
- Mark organised a reunion in 1994 — 25 years after closure
- Over 12,000 bikes showed up
- That reunion proved the Ace Café had to return
- Mark worked with Brent Council to bring it back permanently
Mark explained how the Ace Café became a home for riders — a place where people could meet, share stories, and feel part of a community.
Why He Did It
Mark’s inspiration was simple:
“There was nowhere that felt like ours. The Ace Café had history, soul, and identity.”
He’s been riding since he was 17, and although he’s temporarily off the bike due to health, he plans to return. His passion for the café and the culture is still as strong as ever.
The SlowBoys Ride-Out – Interview with Sean
Next up, I met Sean, the founder of the Original SlowBoys motorcycle group.
How SlowBoys Started
- Began in the early 2000s
- A small group of friends hanging around the Ace Café
- Took a break, then restarted in 2016
- Now expanded across the UK, Europe, USA, and Australia
- 2026 marks their 10-year anniversary
They’re planning a special barbecue event — details will be on their Instagram.
Where They Were Heading Today
The SlowBoys were riding out to Gasoline Juice, a quirky countryside spot about 1.5 hours away. Country roads, good food, good vibes — the perfect ride-out destination.
Before leaving, the marshals gave a pep talk about:
- Riding safely
- Staying together
- Respecting venues
- Avoiding overtaking leaders
- Keeping the group disciplined
A properly organised ride-out.
Audi Quattro Day – Interview with Phil
The scheduled event of the day was the Audi Quattro Owners Meet, organised by Phil, who drove 200 miles from Birmingham to be here.
About the Event
- Held once a year
- Always on the May bank holiday Monday
- Running since 2012
- 14 years strong
- 10–20 original Quattros usually attend
- Newer Audi Quattros park separately
Phil explained that he started with an Audi Coupe in 1987 and then bought his first Quattro in the late 80s. He’s been organising this meet ever since.
What Counts as an “Original Quattro”?
- Built between 1980–1991
- Turbocharged
- Four-wheel drive
- Wide arches
- Known today as the UR Quattro
Owners come from all over the UK — forums, clubs, and long-time enthusiasts.
More Quattro Owners Arriving
I also spoke with another owner who had driven from Birmingham. He’s had his Quattro for 30 years, with 206,000 miles on the clock — still running sweet.
That’s German engineering for you.
The Ride-Out Begins
The SlowBoys lined up, revved their engines, and blasted out of the Ace Café in a massive roar. Moments later, more Quattros rolled in, filling the forecourt with iconic shapes and colours.
It was a perfect mix:
- Motorcycles leaving
- Classic cars arriving
- Sunshine
- Engines
- Community
Pure Ace Café magic.
Final Thoughts
Today was a perfect example of what makes the Ace Café special:
- History
- Culture
- Community
- Petrol passion
- People from all walks of life are coming together
From Mark’s story to the SlowBoys’ ride-out and the Audi Quattro legends, this day had everything.
If you enjoyed this vlog, drop a like — and until my next video, I’ll catch you guys later.
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