Jock VII of Chartwell

Since the National Trust opened the house to the public in 1966, the family of Sir Winston Churchill requested that there always be a marmalade cat named Jock, with a white bib and four white socks, in comfortable residence at Chartwell.

Welcoming a new member

We've always honoured this request and in May 2020 welcomed Jock VII, a six month old rescue kitten, to the property to take up this unique role. 

Along with his white bib and white paws, Jock VI has a very mischievous character. Keep an eye out for him as you tour the property.

Taking up residence

Jock is settling into his residency and has developed a mischievous character. His favourite pastimes are investigating what the gardeners are up to and trying to persuade people to give him snacks. He also likes lots of cuddles on the sofa after an eventful day.

Jock likes hiding in the tall grass
Jock VII waiting to jump out of the bushes
Jock likes hiding in the tall grass

Rescued

Jock VII, previously known as Sunshine, was rescued by the RSPCA before being adopted by Chartwell’s Visitor Experience Manager, Viktoria Austen.

He was rescued along with 30 other cats from squalid conditions. The kittens were very weak and undernourished but were young enough to be brought back to health quickly. Jock was the most confident of the whole group and was already playful and full of fun. “Jock VII has had a difficult start to his life, but he is very lucky to come to our loving home. He has already made friends and started to explore the 80 acres that Chartwell has to offer him" says Viktoria.

Jock VI, resident cat at Chartwell, a National Trust property in Kent

Jock VI 

Jock VII's predecessor, Jock VI, came to Chartwell in 2014. Sadly, since 2020, Jock VI has gone almost completely blind and was finding life at Chartwell difficult. After his six years of service we made the decision to retire Jock VI and he is now enjoying a much quieter and more peaceful life with a member of staff in a garden of his own.