Cat lovers, families, walkers and cyclists will once again be able to enjoy a cuppa in the countryside after the café at Cats Protection’s National Cat Centre re-opened following a major refurbishment.

The café, in Lewes Road, Chelwood Gate, opened its doors again in December with a brand-new look and a menu created by MasterChef champion Peter Bayless.

As well as a new kitchen, the café is also more environmentally-friendly, with many ingredients sourced locally and a commitment to reduce packaging waste.

The café is part of Cats Protection’s National Cat Centre, which is free to visit and a great place from which to explore the surrounding Ashdown Forest. As well as the café, the site includes a nature trail, the UK’s largest cat rehoming centre and resident donkeys from The Donkey Sanctuary.

Visitor Centre Manager Dee McDonald said: “Over the years, our café has become hugely popular with local people, whether they’re looking to explore the beautiful surroundings, meet the cats in our care or simply meet friends for a coffee.

“We’ve redesigned the café to make it more relaxed and welcoming, and ensure we’re doing our bit to support local producers and suppliers.

“We were thrilled to have the support of Peter Bayless, who has helped us create a really special menu at affordable prices. We’re really looking forward to welcoming back our regular customers and meeting some new faces in 2019.”

Peter Bayless said: "I have provided over 60 new recipes which have been enthusiastically welcomed by the remarkable kitchen staff and are gradually being introduced to the menu. There are still new things to come with the changing seasons and availability of fresh produce from the local area and I sincerely hope that old friends and new visitors alike will enjoy the food and the experience of visiting the new café.”

The National Cat Adoption Centre is open every day from 10am until 4pm and is a great free day out for all the family.

The centre is situated in Chelwood Gate, on the A275 between Wych Cross and Danehill. To find it using a SatNav, please use the postcode RH17 7DE, or for a map and directions please click here 

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