The Kentucky Castle Farm

The Kentucky Castle has a gem many guests fall in love with upon their visit: our Farm and Teaching Garden. While The Kentucky Castle may be best known for its iconic towers and luxury interiors, the farm is where the heart of our sustainability efforts beats strongest. It is a place where guests can connect with the land, meet our resident animals, and experience the magic of our very own Kentucky agriculture.

Over the years, this special area of the property has grown from a small student-run initiative into a thriving agricultural space that supports our property-to-plate Castle Farm restaurant inside the castle and local educational programming. Our Teaching Garden is home to flourishing produce, vibrant flowers, and our small family of animals, who brighten our space and build relationships with everyone who works with them.

Meet the Residents: Peaches, Patches, and Friends

A visit to the farm isn't complete without an introduction to our most valued farm animal family. We are proud to provide a home to two retired thoroughbreds, Piñata & Val, who are taking their retirement leisurely, enjoying strolls on the farm and lots of treats. Our alpacas, Andi and Gilda, share the pastures with beloved mini donkeys Peaches and Patches, who bring spunk and character to our farm community. We also have a small herd of miniature goats, spending their days hard at work accompanying our guests in our sunrise and sunset goat yoga classes, in addition to a flock of chickens who are sure to entertain in their custom-built coop.

Among all of our friendly farm companions, Duke and Duchess captured the hearts of our guests and fellow animals. These two black and white spotted Karakachans love to be social, and will befriend visitors within minutes of their arrival. Gentle, curious, and full of personality, they’re often a highlight of the guest experience.

 Duke and Duchess take pride in the job of protecting their friends. Their bond with the donkeys (Peaches and Patches) is one of the most heartwarming sights on our farm. You’ll often find them lounging or strolling along the fence line together, a picture of peaceful companionship you won’t want to miss. 

These pups have become so iconic that we’ve even added plush replicas of our very own Duke and Duchess to the Castle Gift Shop. They are a perfect keepsake for animal lovers of all ages.

Education and Enrichment Programs

Our farm is more than just a picture-perfect landscape. It is a space for ongoing experiences. Throughout the year, we host Enrichment Tours that give guests a behind-the-scenes look at the growing process, seasonal planting cycles, and how our farm contributes directly to the Castle’s culinary offerings.

Learning more about the farm space isn’t limited to tours. Guests can enjoy Hands-On Events like our U-pick bouquet-making gardens or a relaxing yet playful goat yoga session at sunrise or sunset. These activities invite guests to connect with the outdoors and our animals for an unforgettable experience.

What makes our farm even more meaningful is our dedication to education. The story of how they came to be. Much of what exists today was first dreamed up by local students as a part of our educational programming. Throughout the year, we host local high school and middle school students who learn about farm management, assist with planting, harvesting, and even take the lead on a development project. In past years, students have planned and executed adding a berry orchard, an adjustable obstacle course for the goats to provide stimulation and more. Our students are a significant part of our farm's success! 

Kristen Elrod, The Kentucky Castle’s current Farm Coordinator, was first introduced to the farm in the early days of our educational programming. She’s witnessed the farm go from open green space to the vibrant and lush grounds that it is today. She discovered a passion for the farm and its potential, working part-time throughout her high school years. Seven years later, she officially stepped into the role of farm manager and couldn’t be more excited. From structures for the animals, to different dedicated planting beds and greenhouse management, each aspect carries the legacy of young Kentuckians whose creativity and curiosity helped shape what our farm has become.

Property to Plate: Dining with Intention

Our Castle Farm restaurant operates on a true “property-to-plate” philosophy. This means that when you dine with us, you’re tasting locally grown fresh ingredients, prepared with intention and care right here on the farm.

Our menus change with the seasons, reflecting the best of what our gardens offer. In the spring, guests might enjoy dishes featuring crisp greens and herbs picked just a few hours before their service. In summer, ripe tomatoes, squash, and peppers will be the spotlight of our dishes. Fall brings hearty root vegetables, while winter invites comforting, slow-roasted savory dishes.

The Castle culinary staff works closely with our garden team to plan each growing season. This partnership turns every menu into a reflection of the farm's production. 

A farm that feels like a family

Whether you plan to visit for a weekend stay, or attend one of our signature seasonal events, or simply stop by for brunch with a few friends, we invite you to spend time at the farm. It’s a place to slow down, connect with the beautiful Kentucky greenspace.

We've found that guests of all ages are drawn to the charm of the animals, beautiful scenic gardens, and the stories that unfold here everyday. Some visitors come for picture opportunities, others may come for goat yoga relaxation, or just to learn about the area. No matter what brings you here, we can ensure you leave with a renewed appreciation for sustainability, agriculture, or even your first Kentucky farm animal encounter.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a day trip, or a special meal with loved ones, there’s no better time to experience the charm of The Kentucky Castle Farm. Come explore the beauty of our land, meet our animal family, and enjoy a meal crafted just steps from the garden. Your Bluegrass adventure begins here.