About Us

Our Story

Barney's Cafe is housed in one of Bookham's most cherished heritage buildings — the historic Bookham Post Office, built in 1864. Once the Bookham Store, this landmark has been lovingly restored and transformed into a warm, welcoming cafe that honours the town's history while bringing new life to the community.

The cafe is run by Marguerite and Tess Julian, who share a passion for great food, genuine hospitality, and the people of the Southern Tablelands. Since opening, Barney's has become the beating heart of Bookham — a place where retired farmers, travellers, and regulars gather to share a meal and a moment.

The Name Behind the Cafe

Barney's Cafe is named after Barney, a much-loved Australian Terrier who inspired the spirit of the place. Throughout the cafe you'll find charming dog art prints celebrating the heritage of the breed, and the dog-friendly patio is a testament to the family's love of animals. The current cafe mascot, Leo, continues the tradition.

Dogs are more than welcome on our outdoor patio — water bowls are always out, and your pup will receive as warm a greeting as their human companions.

A Community Hub

Barney's Cafe has always been about more than just coffee. Walk in on any given morning and you'll find the familiar warmth of a Men's Shed atmosphere — locals catching up, stories being shared, and a genuine sense of community. Marguerite and Tess have worked hard to revitalise Bookham as a destination worth stopping at, and the cafe is central to that mission.

More Than a Cafe

Inside Barney's you'll find a curated gift shop stocked with regional artisan products, including:

• Boorowa Bees raw honey
• Drunken Sailor gourmet relishes and condiments
• Handcrafted woodwork and homewares
• Artisan candles and scented goods
• Locally made jewellery and earrings

Next door, the restored St. Columba's Catholic Church — now operating as the Old Bookham Church B&B — offers overnight accommodation for travellers who want to linger a little longer.

What Makes Us Special

• Historic Location — Housed in the 1864 Bookham Post Office, a heritage landmark of the Southern Tablelands.
• Dog Friendly — A dedicated outdoor patio where your dogs are always welcome.
• Community Spirit — A genuine gathering place for locals and travellers alike.
• Quality Food & Coffee — Freshly made food, expertly brewed coffee, and homemade baked goods every day.

The Perfect Pit Stop

Located just 1 minute off the Hume Highway, Barney's Cafe is the ideal stop between Sydney, Canberra, and Melbourne. Whether you need a great coffee, a filling meal, clean facilities, or parking for a caravan or horse-float, we have you covered. Open every day, 8am–3pm.

"We wanted to create a place where everyone feels welcome — a true community hub that also serves as a beautiful pit stop for travellers on the Hume." — Marguerite Julian

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