Nestled on the corner of Vernon and Albury Streets in the heart of historic Murrumburrah, WhichCraft & Coffee Cottage stands as a beacon of small-town charm, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the earthy scents of local honey and handmade soaps.
This quaint Victorian-era cottage, transformed into a beloved café and craft haven, has been the lifeblood of community gatherings for over three decades. As travellers zip along the Burley Griffin Way between Sydney and Canberra, it’s the kind of spot that turns a quick pit stop into an unforgettable detour. WhichCraft & Coffee Cottage became an Incorporated Not-for-Profit Association in 1996.
Margaret Thornhill, President and Jenny Loader, Treasurer had a chat with Robyn Atherton about ‘WhichCraft’ and its operations. Jenny said that they have a small committee and other members who just put their crafts and other items in for sale.
“We have less than 100 members – some are local, and others from surrounding towns and Canberra, Wagga, Wollongong, and Sydney – few members are active volunteer workers at the cottage.”
Margaret said that some people who visit comment on the building and how beautiful it is, especially the ceilings. There is a booklet available regarding the history of the first thirty years. Which Craft and Coffee Cottage: Murrumburrah – The First Thirty Years (compiled by Philip Marchant in 2001), chronicles its rebirth: from dusty relic to vibrant hub, complete with sketches of its embossed ceilings and timber floors.
Jenny said “We cater for bus trips – mostly from Sydney and these visitors are usually enroute to Griffith or Broken Hill on tours and some groups from Canberra. We use the big room at the back of the cottage for group catering. Various local groups use the room too – such as the Quilting Group. We cater for travellers and the big room is available for hire.
Whichcraft Cottage’s story traces back to the late 19th century, when Murrumburrah—twin town to Harden and once a bustling rail hub—was dotted with such wonders. Today, the cottage unfolds like a storybook. Step through the front door, and you’re in a front room brimming with local produce—jars of golden honey from Harden’s House of Honey, bottles of peppery olive oil, and batches of home-baked cakes wrapped for the road.
Venture deeper, and the back rooms reveal a treasure trove of crafts: knitted tea cosies in every hue, quirky silver jewellery forged by nearby makers, and woven baskets that whisper of lazy afternoons in the orchards. But it’s the café that steals hearts. The cosy dining room, with its tapestry wall hangings and a pantry shelf groaning under jars of preserves, feels like a hug from a favourite aunt. Menu staples are simple, soul-warming affairs.
Margaret said that they are well known for their scones. When asked who is the chief scone maker at the moment? She reported that it was a member’s husband that has the magic touch. It’s praised as “a little treasure trove” and “the best stopping place on the Burley Griffin Way.” One visitor raved about the “simple but perfect” lunches and “gorgeous cottage with lots of hand-made items for sale.”
Another 50 years? – Jenny said that more volunteers would be needed or it would have to be run completely differently. A lot of people sell their craft items online now; younger members cannot volunteer due to work commitments; a different commission rate applies if you cannot volunteer to work a shift at the cottage. Many volunteers are getting older and retiring.
Christmas items will start to come in soon – we already have some cards.
Why Visit Whichcraft? A Road-Tripper’s Roadmap
Whether you’re en route to Young for cherry-picking season or detouring through the Hilltops Wine Region, Whichcraft is your ideal pause. Open Wednesday-Sunday 10am–5pm (closed Mondays and Tuesdays), it’s family-friendly with space for prams and pooches on the verandah.
Christmas items will start to come in soon – there are already some cards available. In an era of fleeting fast food, Whichcraft Cottage reminds us of the slow joys: a warm scone, a handmade gift, and the chatter of strangers who feel like friends.
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