Capybara videos are going viral all over the internet in 2026 due to their relaxed temperament and being able to make friends with anyone. From riding crocodiles to making friends with fellow humans, capybaras have officially earned the title of the friendliest animal on Earth. As highly social rodents (that’s right, they are the largest rodent on the planet), capybaras naturally form close bonds with other animals, including humans.
So, it is only fitting that the UK is getting its first capybara cafe, boasting two baby capybaras, Clover and Sweet Pea.
Where is the only capybara cafe in the UK?
The first capybara cafe in the UK is located in the Norfolk town of Toftwood near Dereham, so quite a drive away from Glasgow, which would take six and a half hours. The exact location has not yet been confirmed, so watch this space for more info! After all, capybaras are semi-aquatic mammals and require a special habitat that needs to be built from scratch.
When is the cafe opening?
The Capybara Cafe was originally set to open its doors at the end of 2025, but was later pushed back to Spring 2026. However, the spot should now open in Summer 2026, with no exact date confirmed yet.
The Capybara Cafe concept
Owned by Jemma Aldridge, who is the mother of two children who require extra support, the cafe idea was inspired by them. The kids have found solace and comfort interacting with the capybaras due to their chill nature, yet they are unable to travel long distances. As a result, Jemma has obtained an exotic animal license and is now waiting for the vet’s sign-off on the adorable mammals.
The Capybara Cafe is set to offer a “spa treatment” for the capybaras, with cakes and hot drinks available as an add-on. Initially, the spot will open with the two baby cappys, Clover and Sweet Pea, with the potential of expansion after six months.
Owner Jemma Aldridge commented on Facebook regarding the delay: “We’ve always said we would do this properly – for the animals, the land, and the future of this project.”
“After reviewing some recent planning advice, we’ve made the decision to appoint a new planning consultant and revisit parts of our land assessments to ensure everything is accurate, compliant and built on strong foundations.
“Because we won’t compromise on doing this correctly, our opening will now move slightly later into the summer than originally hoped.”
