Trying to find the best cat cafes in London?  Or the 5 best places to hang out with cats in  England, Scotland or Wales? We have you covered.  See our comprehensive listing of Cat cafes up and down the Country. Or check out our favourite 5 cat cafes near us. 

What is a Cat Cafe?

In recent years, cat cafés have been quietly pawing their way into the hearts of Brits, combining two of the nation’s favourite things: a good cup of tea and the company of furry friends. First popularised in Japan, these cosy hangouts have become increasingly common across the UK, offering a unique space where visitors can unwind with a cappuccino while sharing their table — and maybe their lap — with a resident feline.

From London to Liverpool, Edinburgh to Exeter, cat cafés are popping up in cities and towns alike. Each one has its own personality, often themed to match the quirky charm of its cats, and all provide a relaxing sanctuary for animal lovers. But these cafés are more than just a novelty. Many also serve as adoption hubs, working closely with animal shelters to find forever homes for rescue cats, making every visit a potential life-changer.

Whether you’re a devoted cat lover or simply curious about this growing trend, cat cafés offer a wholesome blend of comfort, companionship, and caffeine. As the UK’s appetite for mindful, feel-good experiences continues to grow, these feline-friendly spots seem to be here to stay — whiskers and all.

What to Expect.

If you’ve never been to a cat café before, you might not know what to expect. The main thing to keep in mind is that each café will have its own rules to make sure both visitors and cats stay safe and happy — you’ll usually find these on the website or displayed at the entrance.

Cat cafés may charge an entry fee. This helps cover the cost of caring for the cats and also ensures that people aren’t just popping in without buying anything. Some places may also ask you to purchase at least one drink, or they may charge you based on how long you stay.

Once inside, you’re welcome to enjoy your food or drink while spending time with the cats — but always on their terms. Cats are naturally independent creatures. They sleep a lot, and they don’t always feel like playing or cuddling. Never wake a sleeping cat or try to pick one up, and definitely don’t pull their tails. If a cat wants attention, it’ll come to you!

Visiting a cat café is all about relaxing, enjoying the company of animals, and respecting their space. With a little patience, you might just make a new furry friend.

What to do to Prepare for a Visit to a Cat Café 

Before visiting, it’s a good idea to read through the café’s rules and policies. Take the time to use our directory to find out more about your chosen venue.

Many cat cafés have specific guidelines to ensure the wellbeing of their cats and the comfort of their guests. For instance, there might be an age limit, restrictions on flash photography, and rules about not picking up the cats. Most places will also ask you to sanitise your hands before entering the cat area.

Some cafés operate on a booking system, especially during weekends or busy times. It’s often best to reserve a slot in advance through the café’s website or by giving them a call.  Try to arrive on time for your booking, as sessions may run on a strict schedule. You might be asked to sign a waiver or receive a short briefing before entering.

There can be an entry fee to visit a cat café. This might be charged hourly or as a flat rate, and sometimes includes a drink or light snack. Once inside, remember that the comfort of the cats comes first. Let them approach you rather than chasing or disturbing them. Be gentle, avoid loud noises, and always follow any instructions given by the staff.

If you’ve had a good experience, consider supporting the café further by buying merchandise, making a donation, or even enquiring about adoption if the café partners with local shelters.

Finally, before you leave, it’s a good idea to wash or sanitise your hands again.