Entire home
Historic 1850 Towering Italianate Villa, Hobby Horse Farm
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4 bedrooms 3 bathrooms Sleeps 10
Popular amenities
Explore the area
Lexington, KY
- Kentucky Horse Park
- University of Kentucky
- The Red Mile Racetrack
- Lexington, KY (LEX-Blue Grass)16 min drive
Rooms & beds
4 bedrooms (sleeps 10)
Bedroom 1
1 King Bed
Bedroom 2
1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Bed
Bedroom 3
1 King Bed
Bedroom 4
1 King Bed
3 bathrooms
Bathroom 1
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Bathroom 2
Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Bathroom 3
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
About this property
Historic 1850 Towering Italianate Villa, Hobby Horse Farm
Step into a piece of Kentucky history with a stay at the Basye House, the last known Italianate Villa in the state, built in the 1850s and listed on the National Historic Register. Nestled in the heart of Lexington’s renowned Horse Country, this meticulously renovated mansion blends old-world elegance with modern comfort, offering an unforgettable retreat for families, friends, or groups seeking a unique and luxurious getaway.
This stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom villa boasts spacious and beautifully appointed interiors. Relax in two inviting family rooms, perfect for gathering together, or enjoy meals in the elegant dining room. The modern, fully equipped kitchen features top-of-the-line appliances, making it easy to prepare everything from quick breakfasts to gourmet dinners. Each bedroom is designed for comfort, offering a serene escape after a day of exploring. Outside, unwind on one of three charming porches, where you can sip your morning coffee or evening wine while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding horse farms.
Located just one minute from the world-famous Kentucky Horse Park, the Basye House is a dream for equestrian enthusiasts. Racing fans will delight in being only 10 minutes from the iconic Keeneland Race Course, while sports and culture seekers will appreciate the short 10-minute drive to Rupp Arena and Kroger Field. For a unique adventure, the Ark Encounter is just 35 minutes away, making this property an ideal base for exploring the best of Kentucky.
Whether you’re drawn to the rich history, the thrill of horse racing, or the serene beauty of Horse Country, the Basye House offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Book your stay today and immerse yourself in the charm and grandeur of this historic gem, where every detail has been thoughtfully curated for your comfort and enjoyment.
This stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom villa boasts spacious and beautifully appointed interiors. Relax in two inviting family rooms, perfect for gathering together, or enjoy meals in the elegant dining room. The modern, fully equipped kitchen features top-of-the-line appliances, making it easy to prepare everything from quick breakfasts to gourmet dinners. Each bedroom is designed for comfort, offering a serene escape after a day of exploring. Outside, unwind on one of three charming porches, where you can sip your morning coffee or evening wine while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding horse farms.
Located just one minute from the world-famous Kentucky Horse Park, the Basye House is a dream for equestrian enthusiasts. Racing fans will delight in being only 10 minutes from the iconic Keeneland Race Course, while sports and culture seekers will appreciate the short 10-minute drive to Rupp Arena and Kroger Field. For a unique adventure, the Ark Encounter is just 35 minutes away, making this property an ideal base for exploring the best of Kentucky.
Whether you’re drawn to the rich history, the thrill of horse racing, or the serene beauty of Horse Country, the Basye House offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Book your stay today and immerse yourself in the charm and grandeur of this historic gem, where every detail has been thoughtfully curated for your comfort and enjoyment.
Property manager
Barry Jolly
Premier Host
Languages
English
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available
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- Air conditioning
- Parking available
- Microwave
House Rules
Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
Children
Children allowed: ages 0–17
Events
Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Pets
No pets allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Remove all linens from the beds and place them in the laundry room
Gather all trash and place it in the garbage cans located in the back of the house.
Load and Run the Dishwasher
Load and Run the Dishwasher
Place all dirty dishes, utensils, and cookware in the dishwasher.
Adjust the Thermostat
In summer set 78, in winter set 65.
Final Steps
Turn off all lights, fans, and appliances.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 49
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
We should mention
This property does not have any lifts
About the area
Lexington
Lexington is home to this holiday home. Mary Todd Lincoln House and Hunt-Morgan House are local landmarks, and travellers looking to shop may want to visit Victorian Square Mall and Hamburg Place. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Rupp Arena or The Red Mile Racetrack.
Lexington, KY
Getting around
Restaurants
- McDonald's - 5 min drive
- McDonald's - 9 min drive
- Starbucks - 8 min drive
- Waffle House - 6 min drive
- McDonald's - 8 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to leave a review for this property after your stay.
About the host
Hosted by Barry Jolly

Dear Valued Guests,
Welcome to our home away from home! We are Barry and Susan Jolly, and it’s our privilege to host you as you create lasting memories with your loved ones. For over 25 years, we’ve been proud VRBO hosts, offering high-end vacation properties in the beautiful destinations of Fort Myers Beach, Florida, and across Kentucky. Our passion for family fun and enjoyment drives everything we do, and we’re thrilled to share our homes with you.
As grandparents to 20 wonderful grandchildren, we understand the magic a well-designed vacation home can bring to a family getaway. That’s why we’ve poured our hearts into ensuring each of our properties is super clean, well-furnished, and equipped with all the comforts you need for an unforgettable stay. Our high-end homes are thoughtfully crafted to enhance your vacation, providing a perfect blend of luxury, relaxation, and fun for guests of all ages.
We’re committed to making your stay exceptional, so if there’s anything you need or any way we can make your time here even better, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Thank you for choosing our home for your vacation—we can’t wait for you to experience the joy and togetherness we’ve built into every detail.
Warmest wishes,
Barry and Susan Jolly
Your VRBO Hosts
Welcome to our home away from home! We are Barry and Susan Jolly, and it’s our privilege to host you as you create lasting memories with your loved ones. For over 25 years, we’ve been proud VRBO hosts, offering high-end vacation properties in the beautiful destinations of Fort Myers Beach, Florida, and across Kentucky. Our passion for family fun and enjoyment drives everything we do, and we’re thrilled to share our homes with you.
As grandparents to 20 wonderful grandchildren, we understand the magic a well-designed vacation home can bring to a family getaway. That’s why we’ve poured our hearts into ensuring each of our properties is super clean, well-furnished, and equipped with all the comforts you need for an unforgettable stay. Our high-end homes are thoughtfully crafted to enhance your vacation, providing a perfect blend of luxury, relaxation, and fun for guests of all ages.
We’re committed to making your stay exceptional, so if there’s anything you need or any way we can make your time here even better, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Thank you for choosing our home for your vacation—we can’t wait for you to experience the joy and togetherness we’ve built into every detail.
Warmest wishes,
Barry and Susan Jolly
Your VRBO Hosts
Why they chose this property
Dear Guests,
We’re thrilled to have you stay at our lovingly restored property! I’m Barry, and together with my wife, Susan, we’ve been passionate rehabbers for many years. Susan’s lifelong dream was to renovate an old mansion, and when we discovered this stunning 1850s historic home, we instantly fell in love. The charm, the character, and the rich history within these walls captured our hearts.
We poured our heart and soul into this renovation, working tirelessly to preserve the home’s unique heritage while blending in modern comforts for you to enjoy. Every corner of this mansion tells a story, and we hope you feel the love and dedication we’ve invested in bringing it back to life.
We’re so excited to share this special place with you and hope it brings you as much joy as it has brought us. Make yourself at home, explore the history, and create your own memories here.
Warmest wishes,
Barry & Susan
We’re thrilled to have you stay at our lovingly restored property! I’m Barry, and together with my wife, Susan, we’ve been passionate rehabbers for many years. Susan’s lifelong dream was to renovate an old mansion, and when we discovered this stunning 1850s historic home, we instantly fell in love. The charm, the character, and the rich history within these walls captured our hearts.
We poured our heart and soul into this renovation, working tirelessly to preserve the home’s unique heritage while blending in modern comforts for you to enjoy. Every corner of this mansion tells a story, and we hope you feel the love and dedication we’ve invested in bringing it back to life.
We’re so excited to share this special place with you and hope it brings you as much joy as it has brought us. Make yourself at home, explore the history, and create your own memories here.
Warmest wishes,
Barry & Susan
What makes this property unique
Step into history at this extraordinary 1850s mansion, proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Nestled in the heart of horse country in Lexington, Kentucky, this grand home offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Spanning over 4,000 square feet, it blends the elegance of antique furnishings with modern amenities, creating a perfect balance of old-world charm and contemporary comfort.
Located just minutes from the Kentucky Horse Park, Keeneland, and the University of Kentucky, you’re at the center of Lexington’s vibrant equestrian and cultural scene. Plus, being in the heart of the Bourbon Trail, you’re surrounded by world-famous distilleries ready to explore. This historic treasure invites you to relax, unwind, and make memories in a setting unlike any other. We’re thrilled to share this piece of Kentucky heritage with you!
Located just minutes from the Kentucky Horse Park, Keeneland, and the University of Kentucky, you’re at the center of Lexington’s vibrant equestrian and cultural scene. Plus, being in the heart of the Bourbon Trail, you’re surrounded by world-famous distilleries ready to explore. This historic treasure invites you to relax, unwind, and make memories in a setting unlike any other. We’re thrilled to share this piece of Kentucky heritage with you!
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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