St Barnabas Chapel

Perched on a hillside in the Southern Highlands, St Barnabas Chapel is a tiny, exquisite Gothic Revival church built in 1858. Its rough-hewn sandstone walls, steeply pitched roof and simple timber interior exude a quiet, rural charm that feels a world away from Sydney. The chapel is set within a tranquil cemetery surrounded by rolling green pastures, making it a poignant stop for those exploring the region’s colonial history and pastoral landscapes.

Highlights & What to See

• The Chapel Interior – Step inside to admire the original cedar pews, delicate stained-glass windows and the hammerbeam roof. The simplicity and craftsmanship evoke a bygone era.
• Historic Cemetery – Wander among the headstones of early settlers and pioneers. Many date back to the mid-19th century and tell stories of the district’s founding families.
• Rural Setting – The chapel’s location offers sweeping views over the Southern Highlands. It’s a perfect spot for quiet reflection or photography, especially in the soft light of late afternoon.
• Nearby Moss Vale – Just a short drive away, Moss Vale has a lively café scene, antique shops and the historic Leighton Gardens. Combine a visit with brunch at one of its heritage-listed eateries.
• Self-Drive Loop – The chapel is an ideal stop on a self-drive itinerary through the Southern Highlands, linking Bowral, Berrima and Kangaroo Valley.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate 30–45 minutes to explore the chapel and cemetery. The site is compact, so you can easily absorb its atmosphere in half an hour. If you’re combining it with a walk around the grounds or a picnic, allow up to an hour. Most visitors include it as part of a half-day or full-day exploration of the Southern Highlands.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Moss Vale – 5 minutes’ drive; a charming town with antique shops, cafes and the historic Leighton Gardens.
• Bowral – 15 minutes; known for its bookshops, boutiques and the annual Tulip Time festival.
• Berrima – 20 minutes; one of Australia’s best-preserved Georgian villages, with the Surveyor General Inn and Berrima Gaol.
• Kangaroo Valley – 25 minutes; a scenic valley with the historic Hampden Bridge, kayaking and bushwalks.
• Fitzroy Falls – 30 minutes; a dramatic waterfall in Morton National Park with walking trails and picnic areas.

Please check official sources for current details.