The Malcolm Uphill plaque in Caerphilly isn’t just a bit of metal on a wall; it’s a tribute to one of motorcycling’s true legends—a man who rewrote the record books and became a local hero in the process. Malcolm Uphill earned his place in the annals of biking greatness back in 1969 when he became the first man to average over 100 mph for a lap of the grueling Isle of Man TT on a production motorcycle. And not just any bike—he achieved this on a Triumph Bonneville 750cc, a machine that’s now as iconic as the man himself. That’s right, Malcolm proved that you didn’t need a fancy race bike to conquer the TT, just a gutsy Triumph and the sheer determination to twist the throttle and hang on.
Malcolm Uphill Plaque, Caerphilly
The plaque commemorating his incredible feat is proudly mounted on a wall next to Railway Station Square in Caerphilly, a fittingly unpretentious spot for a man who let his riding do the talking. Positioned just across from the pub named in his honor, The Malcolm Uphill, it’s the perfect pilgrimage site for motorcycle enthusiasts and pub-goers alike. Pay your respects to the man, then pop into the pub to toast his achievements. Bonus points if you do it with a pint and a plate of something hearty—it’s what Malcolm would’ve wanted, probably.
And let’s not forget the significance of that 100 mph lap. It wasn’t just a record; it was a statement. Malcolm proved that with skill, nerve, and a bit of Welsh grit, you could take a bike straight off the showroom floor and make history. Today, the plaque stands as a reminder of his audacity and skill, as well as a challenge to anyone else bold enough to try and follow in his tire tracks (spoiler alert: good luck with that). So, next time you’re in Caerphilly, take a moment to visit the plaque, pay homage to a true biking legend, and maybe even grab a pint at his namesake pub. Just don’t try to average 100 mph on your way there—you’re not Malcolm Uphill.
