Tilly, a two-year-old cat from Surrey, has become an overnight sensation after traveling 17.7 miles (approximately 28.5 kilometers) by train to London's Waterloo Station. This daring feline's journey not only made headlines but also earned her a lifetime free train pass from South Western Railway.
According to BBC reports, Tilly's owner, Michael Hardy, was astonished when he received a call from the station informing him that his cat was in London. Hardy initially thought Tilly was just wandering around the neighborhood, but he soon discovered through her Apple AirTag that she had indeed boarded a train to Waterloo. He had to drive across the city to pick her up.
Tilly was once a stray cat who was mistakenly brought to Hardy's doorstep by two young girls. After checking with a local vet and finding no microchip, Hardy decided to adopt her. Tilly has a history of adventurous escapades, including entering schools, pubs, and even riding buses. On one occasion, she played so much that her owner had to call an Uber to bring her home.
This train adventure has made Tilly a local celebrity, with her story featured in local news and catching the attention of the railway company. South Western Railway gifted her a special Cat2Go smartcard, allowing her to travel freely throughout their network. Hardy joked, "Tilly will never have to worry about being kicked off the train again!"
With her newfound fame and railcard, Tilly is set to continue her adventures without worrying about fares. Her story has delighted many, showcasing the spirit of this adventurous cat.