Business Details
13 Years
experience
Welcome to The Barns Cafe
Established in 2013, The Barns Cafe is a community-focused caf rooted in the historic Northcourt Farm barns, dating back nearly 1,000 years. Our mission is to provide ethically sourced, locally produced food and drinks while fostering a welcoming space for the North Abingdon community. We operate with a dedicated team of over 70 volunteers and paid staff, united by a commitment to hospitality and care. Our offerings include artisan coffee from NewGround, Fairtrade-certified loose-leaf teas, and homemade dishes crafted with fresh, local ingredients. The cafs restoration reflects our dedication to preserving heritage while serving modern needs.We prioritise sustainability, ethical sourcing, and creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels at home. Our space features comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and a relaxed atmosphere for visitors to enjoy at their own pace. As part of Christ Church, we integrate community values into every aspect of our service. With recognition as Restaurant Gurus 2021 Best Caf, we continue to uphold standards of quality and customer satisfaction. Our teams collective experience, spanning decades of community engagement, ensures a service rooted in trust and local insight.
Services
Artisan Coffee
Loose-Leaf Teas
Handmade Cakes
Homemade Soup
Paninis & Sandwiches
Details
- Year established: 2013
Highlights and features
- We offer ethically and locally sourced food and drinks.
- Our volunteer-led model supports community engagement and inclusivity.
- We provide a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with free Wi-Fi and comfortable seating.
- Our menu features artisan coffee and Fairtrade-certified loose-leaf teas.
- We operate in a beautifully restored historic barn with free parking.
What people say
Excellent food
Friendly staff
Historic setting
Relaxing atmosphere
Ethical sourcing
Services
Artisan Coffee
Our artisan coffee is ethically sourced from small-scale farms worldwide, roasted locally in Oxford. We partner with NewGround, a social enterprise supporting ex-offenders, and Secret Garden Roasters for decaf options. Each cup reflects our commitment to quality and community impact.
Loose-Leaf Teas
We offer nearly 20 varieties of loose-leaf teas from Chantler Teas, a Fairtrade-certified supplier. Our selection includes blends from Ethical Trade Partnership plantations, ensuring sustainable sourcing and exceptional flavour for every tea enthusiast.
Handmade Cakes
Our homemade cakes and pastries are crafted daily using local ingredients. From classic scones to seasonal specials, each item is made to order, ensuring freshness and a taste of traditional British baking in every bite.
Homemade Soup
Daily-prepared soups feature seasonal, locally sourced vegetables. Served with fresh bread, our recipes prioritise hearty flavours and nutritional value, offering a comforting option for lunch or a quick snack.
Paninis & Sandwiches
We serve paninis and sandwiches filled with locally sourced ingredients, including meats, cheeses, and produce. Each item is made to order, combining quality and convenience for a satisfying meal on the go.
People
Jo W
Manager
Jo W leads our team with over a decade of experience in community hospitality. She oversees daily operations, ensuring our caf maintains its high standards of service and ethical sourcing.
Jo G
Supervisor
Jo G coordinates volunteer efforts and training, fostering a supportive environment. With years of involvement, she ensures our teams dedication aligns with the cafs community-focused mission.
Hannah K
Supervisor
Hannah K manages front-of-house operations, prioritising customer experience. Her background in hospitality ensures visitors enjoy a warm, efficient service during every visit.
Mo
Supervisor
Mo oversees kitchen operations, ensuring food quality and sustainability. With expertise in ethical sourcing, they maintain partnerships with local suppliers to uphold our menus integrity.
Hannah R
Supervisor
Hannah R supports volunteer coordination and community outreach. Her work strengthens ties with local churches and organisations, reinforcing our role as a hub for North Abingdon.
Questions
What makes The Barns Caf unique?
Our café combines historic charm with ethically sourced food, a volunteer-led team, and a strong community focus.
Are your products locally sourced?
Yes, we prioritise local suppliers for ingredients, including coffee roasted in Oxford and Fairtrade-certified teas.
Do you have free parking?
Yes, there is ample free car parking behind the café.
What are your opening hours?
We’re open Mon-Fri 9am-4:30pm, Sat 10am-2pm, and closed Sundays.
Can I host events at The Barns Caf?
Our space is primarily for casual dining, but we welcome inquiries about community events via email.
Do you offer catering services?
We focus on in-café dining but can provide details for external catering partnerships upon request.
