Inside Birmingham’s Quirkiest Café: How a Resident Cat Almost Closed Folklore

Tucked away beside Platform 2 at Sutton Coldfield Railway Station in Birmingham lies Folklore, a café that effortlessly blends community spirit with unique charm. Once the station’s shop, this hidden gem is easy to overlook, yet for locals and travelers alike, it’s become a comforting refuge from the rush of daily life.

Owned by Alex Light, a former HR professional and self-proclaimed Taylor Swift superfan, Folklore pays homage to the pop star while serving up Montreal-style bagels and expertly brewed Origin coffee. Alex, who nearly made it onto the 2016 Bake Off series, opened the café last year, turning it into far more than just a place to eat—it’s a community hub.

Inside, the atmosphere is welcoming and unhurried. Customers savor chewy, hand-rolled poppy seed bagels with a variety of spreads—from classic cream cheese to Nutella—and sip rich Americanos while discussing everything from espresso martinis to the latest local happenings. For £9.20, the bagel and coffee combo offers a flavorful, if somewhat light, snack that beckons for a second helping later.

Adding to the café’s quirkiness—and its charm—is Betty, the resident cat who has become a local celebrity. Alex found Betty and her three kittens wandering near Sutton town centre, malnourished and feral. Rescuing them all, he lovingly nursed Betty to health and domestication. Now, Betty roams freely, winning hearts and even receiving Christmas gifts from loyal customers.

However, Betty’s presence nearly spelled disaster for Folklore earlier this year. After a complaint to Birmingham City Council’s Environmental Health department, officials visited the café, raising concerns about potential contamination risks due to the cat’s access to food preparation areas. An enforcement notice mandated changes within 28 days or risked the café’s closure.

Faced with the impossible task of retrofitting a listed building under tight deadlines, Alex refused to give up Betty or shut down. Instead, he moved all food production off-site to a micro-bakery called Evermore. This solution satisfied environmental health inspectors, who have since approved the café’s new setup.

Ironically, the former kitchen now serves as Betty’s cozy bedroom, with the café’s customers happily accepting their furry friend as part of the Folklore family. The venue has effectively become Sutton Coldfield’s miniature cat café, offering a sanctuary where patrons can relax, enjoy good food and drink, and, if they wish, spend time with a beloved cat.

A spokesperson for Birmingham City Council clarified that Betty does not need to leave but emphasized the importance of keeping her away from food prep and storage areas. The café owner is encouraged to maintain safe practices while retaining his unique and heartwarming café companion.

Folklore stands as more than just a café—it’s a place to escape, connect, and unwind. For those seeking a momentary break from everyday stresses, it offers a warm atmosphere, delicious treats, and an unexpected feline friend who nearly brought it all to a halt but ultimately helped make it truly special.