The Bow River Barley Mill was designed to bring the history of the Eau Claire area into the feel of the building. The area of Eau Claire became part of Calgary in 1886 when the Eau Claire and Bow River Lumber Co. was founded on its riverbanks. It was given its name by Isaac Kerr who brought with him memories of his hometown, Eau Claire, Wisconsin. The company had to carve a channel in the Bow River to divert water so the flow could be used to power the sawmill’s waterwheel, which in turn powered the mill. The logs that drifted from the Rocky Mountains to the Eau Claire Lumber co. would be processed into lumber. The Eau Claire and Bow River Lumber Co. soon became the largest producer of lumber in the northwest. The waterwheel that greets guests at The Barley Mill is a symbol of the logging days of old. The second floor is constructed from old lumber from the original Alberta distillery. The Eau Claire area is considered to be the gateway to downtown Calgary.

The Barley Mill has long been known for great summer patios where one can enjoy a wide range of draught beers, premium scotches and outstanding food in a unique setting in the heart of Calgary’s downtown. All the management and staff at the Barley Mill welcome you and hope you enjoy what we have to offer.