After a long wait, Cat Cafe is finally ready to make its “purr-fect” comeback to Manchester as it announces an update on its new opening on Deansgate. The original Northern Quarter location, now occupied by the popular Gooey bakery, closed its doors back in January 2021, but the feline-friendly favourite has officially secured a brand-new home in the city, which plans to open this spring.
Cat Cafe Manchester is coming to Deansgate
In January 2025, the cat cafe teased its return on social media, saying: “Manchester we’ve missed you. There’s only one thing this place needs”. Alongside the post was a photo of the old Classic Football Shirts site in Barton Arcade on Deansgate, hinting at its new location.
However, Cat Cafe Manchester announced an update on their new opening yesterday (January 29), posting on social media, “WE’VE GOT THE KEYS. After 12 long months of planning permission battles… we’re finally in.”
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The history of Cat Cafe Manchester
Five years ago, amidst the height of the Covid-19 pandemic and national lockdowns, Manchester Cat Cafe was forced to permanently close its doors. Due to the strict “Tier 4” restrictions in place at the time (a memory many of us would rather forget), the cafe was unfortunately unable to find a way to reopen.
The cat cafe also said in 2021: “Our lease at 103 High Street is coming to an end and unfortunately we haven’t been able to agree new terms with our landlord. It has been an incredibly difficult decision to make, but as it stands we simply cannot afford to continue in our current unit.”
The cafe originally housed ten resident cats, all of whom found new homes with staff and family members following the closure. While it previously offered a full breakfast and lunch menu, the brand shifted its focus to a Liverpool branch, continuing its mission to provide accessible animal-assisted therapy.
Cat Cafe UK follows the traditional Japanese model
By partnering with their “cuddliest, loveliest feline friends”, the cafe strives to boost well-being while teaching guests of all ages about animal welfare. Following the traditional Japanese model, Cat Cafe UK charges for time rather than refreshments; guests book a dedicated slot and enjoy unlimited free drinks throughout their visit.
At the Liverpool site, they allow entry to anyone over the age of 10 years old, with specific hours for four to nine-year-olds available on a daily basis. They have also created a community by hosting book clubs, cat yoga, movie nights, and sessions designed specifically for people with autism and special educational needs.
Cat Cafe Manchester is set to reopen at a new location in Barton Arcade on Deansgate in Spring 2026.