The Kentucky Castle crown logo, in gold

Our Story

The Kentucky Castle is one of Central Kentucky’s most iconic landmarks. For more than half a century, this extraordinary estate, turned luxury hotel, has captured the imagination of locals and travelers alike.


In 1969, Rex and Caroline Martin set out to build a castle in the heart of Kentucky, inspired by their travels through Europe. But before it could be completed, the Martins separated, and construction came to a halt. For more than 30 years, the unfinished castle stood as a local curiosity.

Burnt-out castle ruin within a fortified green wall. Two tall towers flank a damaged main building on grassy land.
Stone castle with black spires on a grassy field under a cloudy sky.

Despite its incomplete state, it embodied a unique vision, one that would eventually flourish under the stewardship of new owners determined to honor its original grandeur while expanding its offerings.


In the early 2000s, new owners undertook the massive effort of restoring and completing the castle, breathing life into its grand halls. In 2004, a structure fire damaged the property, but ultimately led to the restoration of our beloved Kentucky Castle. The property was rebuilt and opened its doors to the public for the first time in 2008.


In 2017, another ownership change took place, and over the span of the next several years, they leaned into the castle's unique property as a place to stay, dine, and relax in addition to developing a working farm with vibrant gardens and farm animals. In 2023, the castle was sold to TKC Hospitality Group, led by Wes Henderson, a proud Kentuckian with deep roots in the Bluegrass State.


Most commonly known as the co-founder of Angel’s Envy, a globally recognized bourbon brand, Wes has spent his life celebrating Kentucky’s heritage and craftsmanship. His passion for preserving the state’s rich traditions while embracing innovation made him a perfect steward for The Kentucky Castle. Under his leadership, the castle continues to honor its storied past while evolving as a premier destination for luxury experiences, true southern hospitality, and a one-of-a-kind hotel stay, reflecting Wes’s commitment to showcasing the very best of Kentucky.

Stone castle with turrets, central open area, circular driveway, and cars parked outside in a green field.
Stone castle with a pool, white tents, and a green lawn.
Lush green hedge and a stone castle with a high spire and towers under a bright blue sky.

The Kentucky Castle stands as a testament to vision, resilience, and revitalization. What began as an unfinished dream is now a thriving symbol of Kentucky’s beauty, creativity, and enduring charm. We invite you to discover it for yourself, and experience a destination where history lives, luxury awaits, and every stay tells a story. Join us for a castle tour to hear the full story. 


We can't wait to see you soon!

Our Team

Woman in white blazer smiles in ornate interior.
The Kentucky Castle crown logo, in gold

Christie Eckerline
Chief Operating Officer

Man in gray suit and blue tie smiles in elegant, blurred interior.
The Kentucky Castle crown logo, in gold

RJ Bilinovic

General Manager

Woman with long brown curly hair in blue polka dot dress smiles, leaning on a marble counter.
The Kentucky Castle crown logo, in gold

Kiaya Powell

Director of Rooms

Chef in black uniform, glasses, smiling in a kitchen, ovens in background.
The Kentucky Castle crown logo, in gold

Jason Walls

Chef de Cuisine

Woman smiles, standing in a room with gold patterned wallpaper and a framed mirror. She wears a blue shirt.
The Kentucky Castle crown logo, in gold

Meagan Pinkston

Business Development Manager

Woman in purple shirt smiles in greenhouse, surrounded by plants.
The Kentucky Castle crown logo, in gold

Kristen Elrod

Farm Manager

Woman smiling in an ornate, gold-toned hallway, with chandelier above. She wears a black jacket.
The Kentucky Castle crown logo, in gold

Erin Kuss

Human Resources Manager

Careers

Become a part of the story and join our team at The Kentucky Castle. Take a look at our available positions below.