UK’s First Cat Café Opens in Newcastle with Surprising Demand

In a city where rainy afternoons and cramped flats make pet ownership tricky, Newcastle’s cat lovers finally have a place to sip coffee surrounded by felines. Mog on the Tyne, the region’s first cat café, opened in early 2024 and quickly became a local sensation—proof that urban dwellers are eager for purr-filled hangouts.

Yes, the café hit 1,000 online reservations within just days of launch. With space for only 20 guests per hour, demand far outpaced expectations—even for its founders.

What Is Mog on the Tyne?

Mog on the Tyne is the first dedicated cat café in the northeast of England. Founded by 28-year-old Katie Jane Glazier from St. Peter’s, the café offers a space where cat enthusiasts can enjoy coffee and desserts while interacting with resident cats. Guests can book hourly slots online, though walk-ins are welcome if space allows.

Why Did It Become So Popular So Fast?

Katie Glazier spent over a year preparing the café’s launch. The overwhelming response—1,000+ bookings in the first few days—surprised even her. “I knew people in the northeast loved cats and cat cafés,” she said, “but that number was beyond anything we expected.” The café’s limited capacity—just 20 guests at a time—adds to its exclusivity.

How Does the Café Operate?

Mog on the Tyne limits entry to 20 people per booking slot, booked online by the hour. Walk-ins are possible if there’s availability. The menu features cat-themed items like Catte Latte, a sandwich, and cakes baked by a local pet-friendly patisserie. The space also doubles as a stress-relief zone for commuters seeking a post-work decompress with coffee and kittens.

Who Takes Care of the Cats?

All cats at Mog on the Tyne come from the Westgate Animal Shelter. The café partners with the shelter to help rescue cats find adoptive homes. Staff are specially trained to handle and care for the animals, ensuring both guest and feline safety and comfort.

What’s Behind the Global Cat Café Trend?

Cat cafés originated in Japan and quickly spread worldwide. Their popularity stems largely from urban lifestyles that leave little room—or time—for pet ownership. For many, these cafés offer a purrfect middle ground: the joy of being around cats without full-time responsibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people can visit Mog on the Tyne at once?

Mog on the Tyne accommodates a maximum of 20 guests per booking slot. Reservations are made online and are booked by the hour. Walk-in visitors are welcome if space is available.

Where is Mog on the Tyne located?

Mog on the Tyne is located in Newcastle, in the northeast of England. It is the first cat café in that region.

How did the café become so popular so quickly?

The café received over 1,000 reservations within just days of opening. Founder Katie Glazier attributes the surprise demand to the region’s love for cats and the novelty of a dedicated cat café experience.

Are the cats from a shelter?

Yes, all cats at Mog on the Tyne are rescues from the Westgate Animal Shelter. The café partners with the shelter to support cat adoption.

What kind of food and drinks are available?

The menu includes cat-themed options like a Catte Latte, sandwiches, and cakes baked by a local pet-friendly bakery. Drinks and treats are designed to complement the feline-friendly atmosphere.

Do I need to book in advance?

Reservations are recommended and made online by the hour, as the café only admits 20 guests at a time. Walk-ins are allowed if there is availability.

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