To celebrate my 50th birthday on April 28th, I booked myself a two-hour visit to the Canterbury Cat Café – and it was hands down one of the best ways I could have spent the day. Peaceful, heartwarming, and full of furry charm, it left me completely smitten.
A Bit of History
Located right in the centre of Canterbury, this independently run café was created to offer a calm, cat-friendly space where rescue and rehomed cats can live happily while interacting with visitors. The space is beautifully set up with plenty of nooks, platforms, and cozy corners for cats and humans alike. Each cat has its own story, and the café team genuinely puts the cats’ comfort and well-being first.
The Experience
The atmosphere is wonderfully serene. Soft music, smiling staff, and of course—cats padding around, snoozing in baskets, or curiously checking out their visitors. The staff were incredibly kind and clearly devoted to the cats, always on hand to share each feline’s name, backstory, and personality quirks.
The Stars of the Show: The Cats
There were so many beautiful characters, and whilst hard to pick a single favorite, a few truly stole my heart.
- Yogurt – A total scene-stealer with one green eye and one blue, thanks to his striking heterochromia. He's a Chinchilla Persian and has the fluff to prove it—complete with oversized paws and a fondness for full-body sploots (legs stretched out behind him like a fluffy frog). He loves being the centre of attention and has no hesitation about interrupting another cat’s cuddle time if he wants his share. He’s playful, mischievous, and completely irresistible. Sadly, he struggles with a bit of anxiety and sometimes over-grooms, but the team looks after him so well—he even wears a cone when needed. Knowing his backstory made me love him even more: his original owner traveled frequently for work, and the shifting care arrangements weren’t ideal for a cat as loving and sociable as Yogurt. Thankfully, he’s now found a place where he can settle in, be adored, and rule the roost.
- Wednesday – Also known as Mirror Girl (and rightfully so—she’s that shiny). She’s a Siamese x moggy with a gorgeous sleek black coat and the softest fur I’ve ever touched. Wednesday is a bit more on the nervy side, but once she warms up to you, she’ll melt into your lap for cuddles. I absolutely loved how she gently crept over to me for strokes—like a little shadow you’re lucky enough to notice. She has a sweet story too—her mum was a pedigree Siamese, and she ended up being rehomed last due to her shy nature. Now, she’s part of the café crew and thriving in her own quiet way.
And yes, I got to meet the Sphynx too—my favourite breed! Their personality, warmth, and unique charm make them absolute stars, and I was so thrilled to spend time with one.
Final Thoughts
Canterbury Cat Café gave me the gift of peace, joy, and feline magic on my birthday—and I couldn’t be more grateful. If you’re a cat lover or just in need of a cozy retreat, I wholeheartedly recommend a visit. You’ll leave relaxed, smiling, and maybe with a few new furry friends in your heart.
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