Castle Post

Located in Versailles, Kentucky, near the Woodford and Fayette county line, Kentucky Castle is a distinctive estate situated on fifty acres overlooking the Elkhorn Creek watershed. Originally known as Martin Castle, Versailles Castle, and Castle Post, the structure was commissioned in 1969 by real estate developer Rex Martin and his wife Caroline. Inspired by European architecture seen during their travels to Germany, the couple sought to replicate a traditional castle style in the American South. Although intended to be a grand private residence with extensive amenities, the project was left unfinished following the Martins' divorce in 1975. For decades, the incomplete building served as a popular roadside curiosity and photographic landmark for tourists traveling near Lexington.

The property underwent a significant transformation after being sold in 2003 to Miami attorney Thomas R. Post, who renamed it Castle Post. His renovation efforts faced a major setback in 2004 when a fire destroyed much of the new woodwork and wiring, yet he vowed to rebuild. Reconstruction was completed in 2008 at roughly twice the original construction cost, resulting in a facility featuring twelve luxury suites, a library, ballroom, swimming pool, and formal gardens. Following another period of ownership change and further revitalization starting in 2017, the castle was purchased by TKC Hospitality Group in August 2023 for nineteen million dollars.

Today, the castle operates as a premier bed and breakfast and special events venue. It hosts weddings, corporate functions, and fundraisers while housing an operational farm-to-table restaurant. The current iteration of the building combines its whimsical historical origins with modern luxury accommodations, including sixteen bedrooms, four of which are located within exterior turrets. This unique architectural oddity has successfully evolved from an unfinished personal project into a thriving hospitality destination that celebrates its eclectic history while serving as a functional hub for tourism and local gatherings in central Kentucky.