Kentucky

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About Kentucky

Conjuring up visions of bourbon, bluegrass and the world’s most famous horse race, Kentucky is a southern state rich in history, culture and natural beauty. Accommodation options in the state’s towns, cities and rural areas range from cosy B&Bs to hip urban hotels, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Many of the best places to stay in Kentucky are fascinating heritage properties, offering an appealing insight into the region’s complex and intriguing past.

Begin your explorations in Louisville — known as the ‘Gateway to the South’ — for old-fashioned architecture, museums, trendy bars and a fabulous farm-to-table foodie scene. The Speed Art Museum, the KMAC Museum, and the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory are all excellent. The real highlight is the annual Kentucky Derby, which takes place each May. If you’re in Kentucky for the horses, nearby Lexington is also well worth visiting. Home to the University of Kentucky, this buzzing southern city brims with museums — including the International Museum of the Horse — live music events and outdoorsy activities. There are horse farms in all directions for keen riders to discover, as well as whiskey distilleries galore on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. For a more laid-back, artsy feel, base yourself in Berea.

Brilliant for lovers of the great outdoors, Kentucky offers ample opportunities to go cycling, hiking, horse riding, kayaking and fishing. For the ultimate adventure, head to the rugged Daniel Boone National Forest, the Red River Gorge and the Mammoth Cave National Park — site of the world’s largest underground cave system.

With rolling limestone hills and lush pastures evoking the Wild West of old films, lively towns filled with bourbon bars, delectable cuisine and a vibrant bluegrass scene, Kentucky is a seriously special destination. It’s no wonder that the best places to stay in Kentucky fill up fast!

The Best Places to Stay in Kentucky

FOR A CHARMING B&B

Charred Oaks Inn is a charming, adults-only B&B in Versailles, close to Keeneland Racecourse. The property's four spacious rooms feature carved four-poster beds and antique furnishings with floral textiles. Old-school Southern style, complete with hearty breakfasts and a tranquil feel. Romantic.
A Storybook Inn promises a luxurious boutique stay in one of seven guestrooms, set within a gorgeous heritage house. Families are welcome, and little ones will enjoy splashing around in the pool or playing in the gardens. The interiors are beautiful, and the farm-to-table breakfasts a real treat. Also in Versailles.
Montgomery Inn B&B features 11 eclectic rooms with flexible options for families, in a historic Versailles residence. Stay here for traditional decor, warm Southern hospitality and generous breakfasts of homemade waffles, muffins and delicate poached eggs with all the trimmings. A classic choice.
Chateau Bourbon is an upscale B&B with four individually-designed suites in vibrant Norton Commons, a short drive from downtown Louisville. Sip top Kentucky bourbon and taste bourbon-inspired treats at the daily 5pm happy hour. One for couples or groups of friends, who can also book out the whole house. Very intimate.
Inn at St James Court was built as a family home in the 1890s, and now houses three carefully-decorated suites. This owner-run inn is ideal for those looking to delve into Louisville's past, and to enjoy plenty of privacy. The pretty porch overlooks the area's iconic fountain. For couples or families.
Respite B&B is an intimate residence with five guestrooms featuring big beds topped with cosy quilts, attractive communal spaces with hardwood floors and a grand piano. A smart B&B for couples or business travellers near central Paducah.

For Old-School Elegance

The Brown Hotel is a grand property with a Georgian Revival façade, impressive public spaces and almost 300 comfortable, elegant rooms. A downtown Louisville spot promising excellent value and the chance to experience the city's heritage. For couples or families.
The Seelbach is an imposing historic hotel in downtown Louisville. Think stately shared areas — including a striking marble lobby — as well as traditionally-appointed rooms and suites offering space for couples or families. Children under 18 stay for free in their parents' room, and pets are welcome. The drinking & dining options are wonderful — as is the vaulted events space.
Boone Tavern Hotel features blue and white interiors with cosy armchairs and botanical prints in 63 guestrooms tucked behind a striking colonnaded façade. Centrally-located and boasting an excellent restaurant, this is a great pick for couples, friends or families looking to explore Berea and the surrounding countryside. A historic property, protected on the National Register.

FOR CONTEMPORARY COOL

Origin Hotel is a hip Lexington spot for sociable travellers looking to kick back at the bar with craft cocktails and curated bourbons, or to tuck into sharing plates with new and old friends. Think stylish, minimalist rooms with space for groups of friends or kids — who can sleep in tents or teepees! Very cool.
The Sire Hotel has spacious monochrome rooms done in soothing white and gray tones, complete with luxurious linens and marble bathrooms. Foodie highlights include a glamorous bar and award-winning restaurant, 'Distilled'. A chic choice for couples, friends or families in Lexington's Gratz Park Historic District.
The Galt House offers smart and spacious contemporary rooms for families, couples or business travellers right on the waterfront in downtown Louisville. A big hotel with something for everyone, including a pool, gym, spa and mutiple dining options. Also pet-friendly.
Hotel Distil is a slick, modern property featuring minimalist interiors with crisp, clean lines and sleek industrial touches. Expect striking river views, a glamorous bar and restaurant, and a fun rooftop terrace. A swish, central choice for couples, friends or business travellers on Whiskey Row in Louisville.
The Kentucky Grand Hotel & Spa sits in the heart of Bowling Green. Expect a mid-century modern feel in large, characterful suites — some of which have jetted tubs and their own kitchenettes — set behind a swish contemporary façade. An indulgent choice for couples, who will adore the spa and the atmospheric piano bar.

FOR ART LOVERS

21C Museum Hotel is housed in what was once Lexington's Fayette National Bank building. Rooms are sleek and indulgent, whilst modern art and sculptures dot the public areas. As much an art gallery as a hotel, this is one for well-heeled art lovers. The restaurant champions local ingredients. Very trendy.

For a Rural Escape

The B&B at Queenslake promises a grand white house set beside a stunning lake. With 140 acres of grounds to explore, excellent horse riding and fishing opportunities and stately living spaces, this is a rural escape to remember.
The Denny House is a charming Greek Revival property set close to the village of Paint Lick. Book all four rooms for a trip with family and friends, and spend your days unwinding in blissful seclusion. Feast on fresh eggs and mushrooms from the garden at breakfast, and gather around the fire for s'mores in the evening. Lovely.
Southern Viking B&B overlooks Cedar Creek Lake, and offers visitors a chance to go fishing, bird watching, hiking or golfing. Small — there are just four rooms — and tranquil, this is a top pick for quiet, outdoorsy guests.
The Kentucky Castle sits amidst 55 acres of farmland. Enormous rooms feature antiques and traditional elements with a pared-back, modern aesthetic. Add the farm-to-table dining and cottage-based spa, and you're in for a very luxurious country escape.
Barren Breeze B&B is an appealing, owner-run inn close to Barren RIver Lake. The best rooms have fireplaces and jetted tubs, and there's fishing and sailing to enjoy out on the water. Book the whole place for a trip with family and friends.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR COTTAGE

If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

Fly to Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport or to Lexington's Blue Grass Airport, and travel to your hotel by bus or taxi.
Kentucky is a wonderful state for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
Travel between June and September for temperatures averaging between 26°C and 30°C, or come in the spring or autumn for cooler weather. The annual Kentucky Derby, in May, is the busiest time of year — book well in advance if you're visiting for the race and festival.

STILL NOT SURE?

Explore our pick of all the best places to stay in Louisville.
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The best hotels in Kentucky

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Boone Tavern Hotel

Berea (Kentucky)

A traditional, charming hotel. Breathtaking traditional exterior features a classical facade. Smart, comfortable rooms contain handcrafted furniture, and high ceilings. A perfect base for admiring the surrounding forests and artisan boutiques.

Restaurant - Award winning Bowling Dining Room with specialities such as cornbread souffle and other Kentucky delicacies.
Private Hot Tub - Executive Suite features a private hot tub tub
Back to Nature
Great walks

from £78 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees