Have you ever dreamed of sipping a warm cup of coffee while petting some cute, fluffy cats? Look no further, as Java Whiskers Cat Cafe in London offers a unique and cosy experience for every felinophile. Get ready to explore this cat-friendly oasis and discover everything you need to know to make your visit simply purr-fect!
I’m quite picky when it comes to cat cafés, only visiting those that genuinely care about the cats, maintain a clean and cat-friendly environment, and follow stringent guidelines to ensure the animals’ happiness and safety.
Java Whiskers ticks all of the boxes. There is even a separate area for the cats where they can hide if they don’t want to be around people.
Java Whiskers’ mission extends beyond raising public awareness of homeless cats and finding them forever homes through adoption. This cat café also wants to offer a serene and soothing space for people to escape from the stresses of daily life.
After all, what could be more therapeutic than cozying up with a cup of coffee and a bunch of fluffy cats? Count me in – always!
Visiting Java Whiskers: What to Expect
Location and ambiance
With two fantastic locations in Marylebone and Westfield White City, you’re never far from your next dose of kitty cuteness.
My friend and I visited the café in Marylebone, nestled just a short walk away from the bustling Oxford Street tube station.
Java Whiskers stands out among the many cat cafes that have popped up in recent years. From the moment you step inside, you will notice the difference. It’s an intimate space with a warm and tranquil ambiance that instantly puts you at ease.
What truly sets it apart is its cleanliness and unexpectedly pleasant smell—a rare treat in cat cafes.
The café has two floors. The ground floor houses the Cat Lounge, where you can mingle with adult cats.
Venture down to the lower floor, and you will discover the Kitten Lounge (the only Kitten Lounge in Europe). Here, cuteness knows no bounds, as you get the chance to interact with some of the most irresistible kittens you’ve ever laid eyes on. Perhaps you can even consider adopting a fluffy bundle of joy.
Booking and Arrival
Book your visit online on the Java Whiskers website.
While you’re welcome to drop in, due to the limited number of seats in both lounges, I would recommend scheduling your visit in advance.
You must select the Lounge you wish to visit as well as your time slot. A 55-minute visit is the shortest option. I selected this one, and let me tell you, it’s more than enough time to enjoy the cats without feeling rushed.
Food and Drinks
As soon as you walk in, you’ll be able to peruse the café’s enticing menu. It offers a variety of food and drinks.
You can even opt for a glass of wine if you want to add an extra layer of celebration to your experience and spice up your visit.
Craving a savoury treat? Indulge in scrumptious sandwiches.
For those with a sweet tooth, there is a wide selection of muffins, macaroons, and cakes to indulge in.
Every Saturday and Sunday, you can book the Afternoon Tea served exclusively in the Cat Lounge between 2 pm and 5 pm.
Entering the Lounge
After checking in and placing your order (if you wish to do so), you will be directed to a transition room. Then, you will be asked to remove your shoes and fully wash and sanitise your hands.
The staff at Java Whiskers are exceptionally friendly and will assist you in navigating the entire process of entering the Cat or Kitten Lounge.
They explain Cat Lounge Etiquette, which is essential for maintaining a safe and enjoyable cat lounge experience for both the cats and guests.
Cat Lounge Etiquette
Here are the rules to follow during your visit:
- Do not disturb cats sleeping or resting
- Do not hold the cats (While the temptation is strong, resist the urge to pick up the cats. Let them come to you on their terms. I actually noticed some kittens resting happily on fellow guests’ laps)
- Keep the sound level low
- Turn off the flash when taking photos
- Do not bring your own food, drinks, or any other animals into the cafe
By following these guidelines, you’ll contribute to a harmonious environment where both cats and guests can enjoy their time at Java Whiskers to the fullest.
The Kitten Lounge Experience
During my first visit to the café, I chose to spend my time in the Kitten Lounge.
It offers an intimate atmosphere, which immediately caught my fancy. What struck me was the pleasantly low guest count, creating an exclusive and cosy experience. It is also worth noting that this is Europe’s only Kitten Lounge.
This place is a treasure trove of cuteness, and it wasn’t long before my friend and I abandoned our coffee table to explore and play with the kittens.
The guest-to-kitten ratio was just right, ensuring that every visitor could enjoy quality time with the lovely furballs.
As we walked through the Lounge, we found a mix of kittens between the ages of 9 months and one year: some were curled up on plush pillows, enjoying a catnap, while others were happy to play with us.
I became so engrossed in frolicking with the kittens and capturing their moments on camera that I momentarily forgot about my cup of coffee, which nearly turned cold. But the company of the kittens surely made up for it.
My heart swayed towards a cute black kitten. I couldn’t help but wish I didn’t live in a rented flat where keeping pets is not allowed. Brace yourself, because you might just find yourself struck by Cupid’s arrow!
Java Whiskers’ Furry Residents
The café serves as a temporary foster home for the cats coming from The Scratching Post shelter. The shelter’s mission is focused on alleviating the suffering of malnourished, abandoned, and unwanted cats.
On the café’s website, you’ll discover not only the names and stories of each cat but also information about their distinct personalities and behaviours.
The website serves as a valuable resource for those interested in the adoption process. It offers clear guidance on when and how to apply to adopt and offer these cats a forever home.
It’s heart-warming to see how Java Whiskers has already provided a safe and loving environment for over 300 rescue cats.
Special Events
The Café offers a variety of exciting activities for visitors to enjoy, such as Cat Yoga or a Book Club.
Cat Yoga
You can enjoy a relaxing one-hour Cat Yoga class that’s suitable for everyone and takes place in the Kitten Lounge at the White City Café.
It’s a perfect way to unwind in the presence of adorable cats. Following the session, you can enjoy 30 minutes of pure cat cuddles while savouring a cup of tea.
It’s the purrfect way to relax and rejuvenate both your body and mind! For more information, check out Java Whiskers’ website.
Book club
If you love cats and books, you may come over for a relaxing book club session in the company of cats hosted in the Cat Lounge at the Marylebone Café.
Birthday celebrations and gifts
Whether you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion or give the gift of a unique experience to a fellow cat lover, Java Whiskers has you covered. From afternoon tea on weekends to birthday celebrations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Birthday Celebrations
You can celebrate your birthday in style at Java Whiskers with special birthday packages that include cat-themed goodies, candies, birthday cards, and hot drinks. Book your Birthday Kit online and let the Java Whiskers team take care of the rest.
Gift Cards
You can also give your loved ones the chance to take part in this unique cat experience. Gift cards can be purchased online.
What to Wear
I recommend wearing clothes that allow you to move around, and interact with all the cats comfortably. As the cat lounge has a no-shoe policy, be sure to bring socks for your visit.
I would stay away from excessive accessories that the cats might grab or play with. Cats are curious creatures and might be attracted to shiny objects (especially kittens).
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Java Whiskers Cat Cafe cost?
The entry fee at Java Whiskers starts at £16.99 per person. The fee depends on the length of your time slot and the Lounge you choose. Drinks and snacks are excluded.
What is the age restriction policy at Java Whiskers Cat Cafe?
Children under the age of 10 are not allowed in the cat lounges due to safety concerns.
If you have already been to Java Whiskers or have visited any other cat café in London, please share your experiences in the comment section below. I’d love to know your thoughts and recommendations for the best cat cafes in the city.
