The Bag of Nails in Bristol has been named Britain’s first cat pub, with resident felines propping up the bar alongside drinkers.
The cats that call this pub home can, according to Tripadvisor reviews, be found lounging across the bar and on chairs at various times throughout the day.
The pub was first opened in 2011 by Luke Daniels who, not long after opening, was visited by a kitten who continued to make a surprise appearance at the pub before moving in permanently.
The Bag of Nails proudly introduced the newcomer on its Facebook page with the caption: “The Bag of Nails has a kitten! I know. Could things get any freakin’ cuter around here? Meet Malcolm. All together now.”
Soon, Malcolm found a companion in another cat named Beresford and, according to feline-adoring sources, their charm began to take over the pub.
Over time, the two cats welcomed a litter of kittens who continued to call the pub home and, as such, the Bag of Nails soon became known on social media channels as the Bristol cat pub.
Speaking about the way his business had diversified, Daniels revealed on the pub’s social media: “Cats and beer. It’s what we do.”
Over time, more cats began to frequent the venue, some seeking treats and even joining the ever-expanding family of felines, while others simply enjoyed the company. As Daniels pointed out each of them, like the pubs other patrons, possess distinct personalities and preferences.
Daniels explained: “There is a lot of nuance to their individual behaviour once you get to know them. Solarise loves a lap, Wolfgang adores chicken above all else. Sally revels in belly rubs, and Cirrus has an uncanny ability to sense when you’re feeling down. The list goes on.”
The cats can be spotted leisurely lounging around the pub at nearly all hours of the day, but they aren’t confined to the pub’s boundaries and are free to venture outside and explore the nearby Brandon Hill Park area.
Daniels added: “We can’t guarantee the cats will be there when you come, but if you hang around long enough or keep coming back, they will surely show you some affection.”
This article was originally published by the drinks business and has been shared with permission.
