What to Expect at a NERS Rat Show: Our Visits to Carlisle & Preston
If you’ve ever wondered what a NERS (North of England Rat Society) rat show is really like, let us share our experience. We’ve now attended several shows — including Carlisle on 5th July (a joint event with the NFRS) and again on 20th September for the Annual Cup Show, plus the Preston show on 25th October — and every single one has been a joy.
The NERS community is warm, welcoming, and incredibly passionate about rats. Whether you’re an experienced keeper, brand-new to the world of rats, or simply curious, these shows are an absolute must-visit.
Website: https://www.neratsociety.co.uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northenglandrats
⭐ A Brilliant, Family-Friendly Atmosphere
One of the most striking things about every NERS show we’ve attended is the atmosphere.
It’s genuinely family-friendly, community-focused, and relaxed. Children are openly encouraged to attend, and there are usually child-friendly activities — great for building confidence and giving young people a positive introduction to rats.
NERS shows are inclusive, friendly, and full of people who want to share their passion. If you’re nervous about attending for the first time, don’t be. Honestly — just turn up, be yourself, and you’ll fit right in.
🐾 The Cuddle Corner (Run by Su Oakley)
One of the highlights of any NERS event is the Cuddle Corner, beautifully run by Su Oakley.
Her rats are:
- Well-handled
- Calm
- Incredibly friendly
- Absolutely gorgeous
It’s the perfect place for:
✔️ People thinking of keeping rats
✔️ Anyone who used to keep rats and misses cuddles
✔️ Families wanting a gentle introduction
✔️ Visitors who simply adore interacting with animals
We’ve spent a lot of time here, and it’s honestly magical watching people meet a rat for the first time.
🛍️ Stalls Packed with Rat Accessories, Hammocks & Gifts
Each NERS show we’ve attended has been a small-business haven. You can browse and buy an incredible range of rat accessories and enrichment items, including:
- Hammocks
- Cage accessories
- Ropes
- Ledges
- Foraging feeders
- Lava ledges
- Custom enrichment toys
- Cage décor
- Brilliant rat-themed gifts, mugs, keyrings, mouse mats, notebooks, T-Shirts and more
🐭 The Mischief Made Stall
We had stalls at the Carlisle shows (both dates) and attended Preston as visitors — though next Preston event, we’ll be there with a full Mischief Made stall! Expect hammocks, enrichment ropes, ledges, pet rat accessories, and all the colourful Mischief Made goodness.
🎁 Tombolas & Mystery Boxes
NERS shows are known for their fun additions, but the last couple have had two real stars:
🎟️ The Tombola
Always busy, always fun, and packed with brilliant prizes. Perfect for families and collectors alike.
📦 The “Mystery Box” Sale
A fan favourite! These have been an absolute hit — full of surprises and always great value. We may have taken home one (or several).
These fun extras add to the energy and community feel of the day.
🐀 Friendly, Welcoming Community
The thing we love most is the people.
NERS has a genuinely uplifting, supportive community where everyone is happy to chat, share advice, and celebrate rats as companions.
Whether you’re entering your rats into the show, browsing the stalls, enjoying the cuddle corner, or exploring enrichment ideas, you feel welcomed the moment you walk in.
🌟 Tips for First-Time Visitors
NERS shows are incredibly laid-back, so there’s no complicated prep. Our honest advice:
- Just turn up! No pressure, no judgement.
- Be yourself. Everyone there loves rats and wants to share that enthusiasm.
- Bring a little spending money. Trust us — you’ll find something you want!
- Take your time exploring. There’s a lot to see and learn.
That’s it. Easy, friendly, and fun.
🔗 Useful Links
- NERS Website — https://www.neratsociety.co.uk
- NERS Facebook Page — https://www.facebook.com/northenglandrats
- Browse our Rat Hammocks & Accessories
- Shop our Enrichment Ropes & Ledges
🧵 Final Thoughts
We always have a fantastic time at NERS shows. The Carlisle and Preston events have been highlights of our year — from chatting to other keepers to showcasing Mischief Made accessories, browsing Pegs and Pieces’ gorgeous items, enjoying cuddle sessions, and soaking up the upbeat community vibe.
If you love rats, want to learn more about them, or simply want a wonderful day out with the family, a NERS show is the perfect place to start.