Last Updated on 28 October 2025 by Vanessa
The Charlotte Despard in Archway is one of the coziest pubs in London. Lots of candles, warm lighting, comfortable furniture, local beers, and…a cat named Legz.
How Legz found a forever home at the Charlotte Despard pub in Archway
Legz arrived at the Charlotte Despard pub nearly six years ago, and he’s been part of the family ever since.
It all started when Chris Sparks, one of the pub’s owners, came across a video of Legz recovering from a car accident. Despite everything he’d been through, Legz’s determination and charm shone through. Chris was instantly smitten.
He decided he had to meet this special cat in person. So, he went to the shelter — and the rest is history.
From the moment they met, it was clear they were meant for each other.
Legz quickly made himself at home in the pub, and today, he’s as much a part of the Charlotte Despard as the regulars at the bar. He’s a true legend at the pub.
Legz, the three-legged dynamo of Charlotte Despard
You’d never guess that Legz only has three legs.
His energy and spirit outshine everything else. He darts around the Charlotte Despard like crazy, leaping onto counters and weaving between tables with the grace of a tiny acrobat.
Every now and then, if you look closely, you might spot a little limp. But that doesn’t slow him down one bit.
What really stands out about Legz is his determination and love for life.
Earning trust, one pat at a time
Legz is very sociable, but he doesn’t like it when the initiative comes from customers he’s not familiar with.
But give him a little time. His curiosity always wins.
Before long, he’ll be trotting over to say hello, rubbing against your legs and offering his signature headbutts.
That’s when you’ll see his true, affectionate side — and it’s hard not to fall for him once you do.
Honorary beer connoisseur
The team at the Charlotte Despard has come up with a fun little tradition that brings Legz — and the customers — into action.
On special occasions, they line up three beer glasses and let Legz do the honors.
Whichever one he sniffs or taps first becomes the “Legz-approved” beer of the night, and it’s sold at a discount to celebrate his expert taste.
It’s a lighthearted ritual that always gets a laugh (and an extra round) from the regulars.
Inspirational icon
Legz’s charming presence has earned him a place in prestigious publications such as the book Pubcats of London and a Japanese cat book. His endearing story has also graced the pages of numerous local newspapers, capturing the hearts of readers far and wide.
But his biggest claim to fame came in 2014, when he was crowned UK Cat of the Year at the National Cat Awards. It was a well-deserved honor for a cat who’s brought so much joy and inspiration to everyone around him.
These days, people from all over visit the Charlotte Despard just to meet Legz, bringing him treats, toys, and plenty of attention.
And perhaps best of all — his story has inspired many pubgoers to adopt rescue cats of their own.
Practical information
Are you eager to meet the charismatic pub cat? Here’s what you need to know.
Opening hours
The Charlotte Despard is open from Monday to Saturday from 05:00 pm to 01:00 am and on Sunday between 05:00 pm and 12:00 am.
Address
Charlotte Despard pub, Archway Road 17-19, London, England (near Archway tube station).
Website: http://www.thecharlottedespard.co.uk
Discover more cat-friendly gems in London
For a full list of cat-centric spots, check out my Ultimate Cat Lover’s Guide to London: 25+ Cat-Themed Activities for a Purr-fect Trip. Highlights include:
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Highgate Cemetery – Near the Charlotte Despard pub, this historic cemetery is famous for its Victorian tombs and resident cats roaming the grounds.
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The Old Eagle Pub, Camden – Meet Churchill, the pub’s resident cat and local celebrity.
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Anglesea Arms Pub, Ravenscourt Park – Lily rules this cozy pub with charm and grace.
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Gipsy Hill Station – Fanny, the station cat, greets commuters and visitors alike.
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Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium – London’s premier cat café, where you can sip tea or coffee surrounded by playful kittens and regal seniors.
For even more feline fun, check out the ultimate guide to all the cat cafés across the UK.
