Notable Horse Farms of Lexington and their Famous Race Horses

Lexington is often referred to as the "Horse Capital of the World" due to its rich history and culture surrounding horses. The city is home to many notable horse farms, each with their own history and famous race horses. In this post, we'll explore some of the most famous horse farms in Lexington and the famous race horses associated with them.

Claiborne Farm

Located in Paris just northeast of Lexington, Claiborne Farm is one of the most iconic and historic horse farms in the Lexington area. Founded in 1910, the farm has been home to many famous race horses, including Secretariat, Bold Ruler, and Seabiscuit. Secretariat, in particular, is widely regarded as one of the greatest race horses of all time, having won the Triple Crown in 1973. Visitors can take a guided tour of Claiborne Farm to see the stallions, explore the gorgeous grounds, and visit the cemetery where Secretariat was laid to rest.

703 Winchester Rd, Paris, KY

T: 859-987-2330

Ashford Stud

Ashford Stud is another notable horse farm in Lexington, known for its beautiful grounds and impressive stallions. The farm has been home to many famous race horses, including American Pharoah and Justify, both Triple Crown winners. These champion race horses have helped to cement the farm's reputation as one of the top breeding farms in the world. If you’re in Versailles, be sure to stop by Ashford Stud to tour the farm and get up close and personal with some of the world’s most sought-after stallions.

5095 Frankfort Rd, Versailles, KY

T: 859-873-7088

Calumet Farm

Established in 1924 by entrepreneur William Monroe Wright, Calumet Farm has earned its place in the history of iconic Lexington horse farms. Many thoroughbred horses have been born on the farm and gone on to win prestigious awards. Whirlaway was the first Calumet Farm horse to win a Kentucky Derby and a Triple Crown in 1941. Other champions include Citation, Alydar, Tim Tam and Forward Pass. The farm is not currently open to the public for tours, but horse interested parties can set up an appointment to see the stallions.

3301 Versailles Rd, Lexington, KY

T: 706-825-3998

Three Chimneys Farm

Three Chimneys Farm is a beautiful and expansive horse farm in Lexington that has been home to many famous race horses, including Smarty Jones, who won the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes in 2004. The farm is also home to many impressive stallions, including the highly successful Gun Runner, who had record-breaking earnings of over $3.8 million in 2021. Three Chimneys Farm offers stallion tours in April and October.

1981 Old Frankfort Pk, Versailles, KY

T: 859-873-7053

Jonabell Farm

Originally founded in 1946 by esteemed horse breeder John A. Bell III, Jonabell Farm is now the American headquarters of Sheikh Mohammad of Dubai’s Godolphin thoroughbred racing and breeding operation. Here you’ll find incredible stallions including Street Sense and Nyquist, both Kentucky Derby winners. Visitors can tour the stallion complex and the beautiful paddocks to see some of the most renowned horses in the world.

3333 Bowman Mill Rd., Lexington, KY

T: 859-255-8537

These notable horse farms that have played a significant role in the history and culture of horses in Kentucky. They have produced some of the greatest race horses of all time and continue to be a vital part of the horse racing industry. If you're a horse racing enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty and grace of these magnificent animals, a visit to these farms in Lexington is a must-see.

Are you interested in buying or selling a horse farm in Kentucky? Leave us a message here or call 859-608-8039 to speak to Hill and Regan Parker about all your Lexington real estate needs!