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ThoroFan while planning our driving trip to the Arkansas Derby plotted passing through Lexington for a flavor of the Blue Grass Stakes. Normally, we would have secured a room at the Embassy Suites or some other hotel in Lexington. However, this time we were touted by another ThoroFan of a wonderful place to stay in Versailles, just 20 minute drive from Keeneland race track. It is a working Thoroughbred farm that just began operations as a bed and breakfast. It is called Village View. We tried it.

The hosts Dee Dee and Duncan Lloyd have had the expansive property in their family for over 150 years. The main house is huge with a separate wing used for the Air BNB. It is a three bedroom suite with a shared bath on the second floor with views from every window over the blue grasses. A small dinning area is perfect for morning coffee and reviewing the "form" before heading off to the track which is less than 20 minutes away. On the first floor there is a large sitting room and dinning room with a long table for accommodating handicappers and their goods. The rooms location separates people burning the midnight oil from those trying to get their rest. Bookcases are packed with racing books that allow you to revisit the life of Kentucky racing that must have been.

Dee Dee runs the day-to-day farm operations, although her husband Duncan is a willing participant in the chores. She is ever willing to talk racing with you, show you around the farm and introduce her to some the equine guests. During our stay the extra large adjacent paddock was inhabited by three young fillies with the curiosity of Sherlock Holmes. Walking anywhere near the fence, assured a grouping, waiting for carrots and rubs.

The farm is the only working farm in the village of Versailles. It is short walk from the B&B to downtown; maybe talks 15 minutes. 

Fans of Keeneland Racing who are planning their trip to Keeneland for the fall meet should check out Village View on the Air B&B website. You will be glad you did. If you make plans be sure to tell Dee Dee that you are a ThoroFan. She has been in horse racing her entire life and welcomes racing fans.