A Cozy Afternoon at Brighton’s Cat Café

Join our editor as she visits a cat café in Brighton.

A rainy afternoon in winter is the perfect (or, should i say, purrfect?) time to check out a new cafe or try a new activity. I combined both and booked a visit to Munchies, a cat café in Brighton.

The trip began with a winding trip through Brighton's famous Lanes, skipping over puddles and glancing into the shop windows as I passed by. I recieved a warm welcome from the staff upon arriving, who use a double-door procedure to ensure no cats are able to get lost into the cold streets of the city.

Munchies operates on a wholesome policy: it's the cat's home first, and the customers are their guests. Unlike other establishments, Munchies is not a rehoming centre - the cats have been adopted by the franchise and are made to feel at home. Because all the cats are rescued, guests are encouraged to use low tones and move slowly, to ensure no cats are startled.

There are also some house rules, such as to never wake a sleeping cat, and strictly no flash for phtography. The staff prefer guests not to approach cats, and instead let the cats come to the guests. That said, there are lots of fun toys available for guests to use as incentives!

At one point during my visit, a beautiful grey cat curled up inside my handbag, and he was too adorable to move. I busied myself with choosing from the carefully curated menu, which included options for every customer’s preference such as tapas, themed cocktails, hot drinks, and baked goods.

The atmosphere was very calming, involving soft lighting and ambient music. To keep the cats as relaxed as the guests, the staff have organised quiet zones for the cats, such as high shelves or even hiding places.

The first cat café opened in Taipei, Taiwan in 1988, and the idea has spread globally. There are over 30 cat cafés in the UK. I highly recommend a visit - provided you have no allegies, of course!