FAQ's
- Do the cats live on site?
They do not. For the safety of the cats, they travel to and from the cafe on the daily. During the hard tolling summers as of recent, they may have an occasion stay, but a member of staff will ALWAYS be present.
2. How many cats do you have?
We currently have six cats; if you would to get to know them, head over to our 'Meet the Cats' page.
3. Are we allowed to take photographs and videos?
You can certainly take as many photos and videos as you'd like during your visit; we also love to see everyone's perspective so by all means, share them too! We do however need to express that the flash function on any devices must be turned off for the benefit of our cat Teddy who is epileptic. This is also for the safety of any other guests that may be photosensitive.
4. Where did the name Darling Darlings come from?
Caroline many years ago had a cat called Francis, who was regularly referred to as her 'Darling'; after his passing, she continued to call her other cats her 'Darlings'. This became the start of 'Darling Darlings Cat Lounge'. We prefer to call ourselves a lounge as opposed to a café, as we like to encourage a home away from home environment where you can easily relax in.
5. Where did you get all your retro and vintage items from?
Over many years, we have grown our unique collection from charity shops, car boot sales, family childhood memories, and even kind donations from past and present visitors. The selection within the shop chops and changes frequently, the more you look, the more you see. If there are any retro or vintage items you think could do with a new home, by all means feel free to contact us to preserve and share it's memory.
6. Are you open all year round?
We are open all year round, with exception to family holidays, select days off or early closure subject to unpredictability due to veterinary appointments or other*. Despite this, our opening times very from Peak and Off Peak within Great Yarmouth.
Summer (Peak) Operating hours are: Tuesday-Sunday (10am-3:45pm).
Winter (Off Peak) Operating hours are: Tuesday-Saturday (10am-2:45pm).
*Please be mindful that we are a small team, days off can sometimes crop up unexpectedly and we will do our best to notify our customers - this will usually be posted on our social media.*
7. Where is the best place to park?
There are various places in the local area to park; including council owned car parks, sideroads and bays across the seafront. The nearest car park to us is at The Anchor Cafe, second nearest being another Pay & Display on North Drive that is only a 5 to 10 minute walk away. We always highly advise to give yourselves at least 30 minutes to park -especially in the Summer/Peak season- before your session, since space can be very limited which may result in you parking a fair distance away.
8. Do you cater for those who are Vegan or Gluten Free/Coeliac?
Yes! We offer a vast range of alternatives to meet the needs of those with food allergies and intolerances. This includes different types of milk including: cow (semi skimmed), oat, coconut and soya. It is very important to let us know when booking, so we can make sure we have the items in stock to suit your needs.
9. Do you have Wheelchair access?
I'm afraid we are not fully wheelchair accessible. Due to being a listed building, like many others along the front, we are not permitted to alter the outside structure of the property. On top of that we are unable to house a colllapsable ramp for Health and Safety due to the length it would need to be. That being said, we completly understand everyones range of mobility is completly different, our staff will be more than happy to help you up our stairs as best they can.
10. Is the café available for parties or cooperate events outside normal working hours?
Of course! In the past we have hosted events like Photoshoots with clothing brands and a Documentary production with University students. If you are interested in hiring our quirky little corner of the world, please feel free to contact us. Telephone is ideal on 01493 857450
11. Where exactly are you located?
We are: 57a Marine Parade, Great Yarmouth, NR30 2EJ. Right on the sea front along with other restraunts like Chicos and Othellos. We are opposite where horse & carriages park up, and a few minutes walk away from the Britannia Pier.
12. Can my dog come in with me?
The short answer sadly is no. This does include service dogs. Unlike other cafes; we do not offer a cat free dining area. This is simply due to having limited space in the shop. Our cats have lived with a dog in the past yes, but due to other unknown animals posing a potential threat that can cause stress, we can reserve the legal right to refuse entrance to all dogs. As much as we love dogs, we have also sadly had passers by encourage their dogs into our porch or even to 'get' the cats, this is then not fair on either animal and we deeply frown upon this owner behaviour. This is the cats home whilst they work here, and we want nothing but for them to feel safe.