This apartment is located within a few miles (5 km) of Westhaven Golf Club and Gentry Lake. The apartment includes a kitchen, a patio, and a refrigerator.
Nashville International Airport (BNA) - 36 min drive
Restaurants
Sonic Drive-In - 9 min drive
Starbucks - 9 min drive
Hop House Tennessee Taps - 8 min drive
Pueblo Real Mexican Restaurant - 9 min drive
High Brow Coffee + Tea - 4 min drive
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire apartment to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Whimsical Gatehouse at Dark Horse Estate
Welcome to The Gatehouse, and the private world of Dark Horse Estate. This legendary property offers a one-of-a-kind experience. A perfect setting for friends and families to unplug and reconnect.
This residence can accommodate three overnight guests. The Gatehouse features a queen bed and a day bed. It boasts a fully equipped kitchen, private bathroom and a huge, covered porch looking out over the countryside. The Gatehouse is exclusively yours and can be accessed with an outside entrance. This romantic one-of-a-kind get-away will exceed your expectations.
Your Property Dark Horse Estate is gracefully set in the rolling hills of Tennessee, just 5 miles north from Franklin’s historic town square and 25 minutes from downtown Nashville. Beautiful sunsets and lush mystic landscapes make this private sanctuary an exclusive destination. As you stroll down to the river, you’ll find yourself breathing more deeply as though you’ve been transported to a simpler time.
Guest Access You’ll be staying on the first level of a 9000 sq. ft. hand crafted post and beam structure housing three recording studios which have become home to many of the most celebrated artists in the world. Shawn Mendes, Taylor Swift, Keith Urban, Alice in Chains, Tim McGraw, Korn, Matchbox 20, Carrie Underwood, and Neil Diamond are just a few of the artists who frequent Dark Horse estate. In fact, you’ll be sleeping in the same bed as many of your favorite stars. So… during your stay, you’ll find yourself among very good company!
You will have access to the lower kitchen just down the hall as well as the entire grounds. Tours of the studios are available almost every day based on the recording schedules. Whether you’re in town on business, a vacationer seeking an unforgettable experience, or a platinum selling artist working on your next hit, The Gatehouse is the perfect destination for your secluded getaway.
Interaction with Guests At Dark Horse Estate your privacy is top priority. Having said that, you might bump into other guests as you explore the grounds. Every day is different with activity such as film shoots, interviews and, of course, recording sessions. Sometimes you may be able to hear "the creative process" from these sessions inside the apartment. And while late night and early morning sessions are rare, (you know musicians)... it does happen occasionally. Please read our reviews and you’ll see that our guests are delighted with both the atmosphere and privacy.
Other details to note Note: Once again please know that the Bunkhouse is located on the first level of our 9,000 sq. ft. (three level) studio building. During some private recording sessions, certain areas of the studio building may be closed off to guests.
Please carefully review HOUSE RULES below. This includes pet policies, property policies, etc. And please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
HOUSE RULES: - SMOKING: Smoking is not permitted in any buildings. Smoking is allowed only outside, in designated areas. - PARTIES/EVENTS/NOISE: All parties are prohibited. Our goal at Dark Horse is to provide a private and relaxing environment. We are also an active recording facility. Because of these factors, guests may not create a disruptive level of noise. Dark Horse is simply not the place for boisterous groups. PET POLICY:
We love dogs! We strive to keep our pet friendly homes just that, pet friendly!... by asking our guests to be conscientious about the impact their four-legged friend is having on the home, the property, and the neighbors.
OF PET OWNERS, WE ASK:
A one-time, non-refundable $75 fee per pet for four legged guests. This fee goes toward helping homeowners with the inevitable repairs needed for cumulative pet-wear-and-tear on their home. This is a cash fee, payable upon arrival.
We accept guests of the canine persuasion only ~ sorry, no feline friends, zebras, ferrets, parakeets, camels, etc.
In the home, dogs are not permitted on the beds, chairs, couches, or blankets. If you are unable to prevent this, please bring (clean!) sheets or blankets from home to put over the couches, bedding, and pillows.
If it’s rainy or muddy outside, please throw a dog towel that you provide on the floor by the doors. While some dog- friendly properties provide these towels, please bring your own. Please do not use the towels provided at the property to clean or dry your pets.
Additional cleaning charges will apply for yard clean-up, excessive pet hair, or messes requiring additional carpet, upholstery, or linen cleaning. Pets may not be left alone in the home unless you have them kenneled or are 110% certain there will be no disturbing barking, scratched doors, or stained carpets. If needed, local pet boarding is available at Waggy Tails Pet Center.
Please understand that we are an active recording studio. Both the studio clients and other visiting guests are looking for privacy and relaxation, and the engineers and musicians are looking for a quiet place to work. We ask that you ensure there is no excessive barking. If you leave your dog unattended in the room and your dog’s barking causes a disturbance amongst other guests, we reserve the right to enter the room and try to calm the dog down. If the barking noise cannot be brought under control, we reserve the right to ask you to vacate the property without refund.
- PLEASE NOTE: All accommodations are to be used as vacation rentals only. If you wish to conduct a business or personal photo shoot, a video shoot, a songwriting or recording session, or any other activity beyond a typical guest vacation rental, please reach out at Dark Horse Recording Online. If you are interested in filming, recording, podcasting etc, we will be happy to discuss, and then give you an appropriate price quote.
Our staff is on call 24/7 to assist with any questions or help you in any way! Please don't hesitate to message us, we want to make your stay perfect!
The apartment is air-conditioned and features a kitchen and a patio, and there's space to spread out with a separate bedroom. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a coffee maker, and an ironing board. Housekeeping is available on request.
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
20 steps to reach entrance
Area rugs in public areas
Cobblestone flooring in public areas
Gravel flooring in public areas
Handrails in stairways
Hardwood flooring in public areas
Thin carpet in public areas
Tile flooring in public areas
Well-lit path to entrance
Smoking not allowed
Services and conveniences
Change of bedsheets (on request)
Change of towels on request
Housekeeping (on request)
Iron/ironing board
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
General
At least 80% lighting from LEDs
Bed sheets changed on request
Electric car charging station
Garden
Housekeeping (on request)
Towels (changed on request)
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Pets
This property welcomes pets
Dogs only
2 total pets
Service animals exempt from fees
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
This property accepts cash
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 18
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
This property accepts cash.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector and a smoke detector.
Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:
Long-term renters welcome.
Property is also known as
House
The Gatehouse at Dark Horse Recording
The GATEHOUSE at Dark Horse Estate Franklin
The Gatehouse at Dark Horse Recording Estate
THE Gatehouse a Luxury Apartment at Dark Horse Estate
The GATEHOUSE at Dark Horse Estate Private vacation home
Frequently asked questions
What can I see within easy reach of this apartment?
This apartment is located in Franklin, close to Radnor Lake, McLemore House, and Franklin Theatre. You'll also find Gentry Lake and Westhaven Golf Club within a short drive.
Is parking available on site at this apartment?
Yes, there is electric car charging available.
Is this apartment associated with a casino?
No, this apartment is not connected to a casino.
Is there an indoor pool at this apartment?
No, there is no indoor pool at this apartment.
What do couples enjoy most about Whimsical Gatehouse at Dark Horse Estate?
Couples staying at this apartment will appreciate amenities like a kitchen and a smart TV as well as a garden.
Are there hot tubs at Whimsical Gatehouse at Dark Horse Estate?
No, this apartment doesn't have a spa tub.
Does this apartment offer breakfast?
No, this apartment doesn't offer breakfast.
Does this apartment allow pets to stay free of charge?
Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this apartment.
What is the closest airport to this apartment?
The closest major airport to this apartment is Nashville International Airport (BNA), which is 25 mi away (36 minutes by car). Another top airport is Smyrna, TN (MQY), which is around 23.5 mi away.
Can I book a room with a balcony at Whimsical Gatehouse at Dark Horse Estate?
Yes, every apartment at Whimsical Gatehouse at Dark Horse Estate comes with a deck.
Whimsical Gatehouse at Dark Horse Estate Reviews
Reviews
10
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 54 out of 59 reviews
10 - Excellent
54
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 59 reviews
8 - Good
5
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 59 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 59 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 59 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
9.6/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Don D.
May 11, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Neat unique place to stay
My wife and I found this unique place to stay on our way to southern Tennessee. We could just imagine the artists that have recorded in these studios. We met a young intern that was a musician and he shared with us the atmosphere is perfect to help fuel the creativity of musical artist. Who knows maybe we stayed in the same room of some muscian that spent the evening creatively writing a tune we all enjoy today. Did not get to see the manor but from the outside it looks amazing.
Don D.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Emily C.
Apr 16, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
WOW!
We had the best stay here! The location was AMAZING. Minutes from Leipers Fork and Westhaven. We had the most magical and relaxing time at each of those towns and loved sitting on the porch in the evening here. Our kids also loved the "tree house" they found over the walkways. It was a really special trip we will not soon forget!
Emily C.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Ronald W.
Mar 31, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Whimsical and Wonderful
We cannot say enough positive things about this property and staff. We found this to be rustic yet modern. Peaceful, relaxing and beautiful all within a short drive from all that Nashville and area has to offer. We highly recommend this place if you’re looking to stay in the Nashville area.
Ronald W.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Jane J.
Mar 26, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Exploring Franklin
What a great experience We met the nicest people The team the host the instructors the students All were so welcoming and passionate It one is of the coolest music experiences we have had And we will be back We stayed in the gatehouse Next time the bunkhouse the setting is spectacular So close to Franklin and the factory tooIzzy gave us an amazing tour of the studios Emily and Austin were both great thank you
Jane J.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Jon c.
Feb 19, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Retired
Beautiful! Such a unique experiance worth the weekend. Be sure to ask to see the Manor and the studio
Jon c.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025
10/10 Excellent
Olivia M., Alabama
Dec 31, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
An absolute gem! Wow!
We stayed here with our 7 year old daughter as part of her Christmas present! She got her first guitar for Christmas and thought coming to this beautiful spot would be a treat. This exceeded every expectation we had for this property. Emily checked us in and was the sweetest person ever! She made our stay so personal and fun! She gave us an amazing tour and we got to hear music being recorded each day. What a memorable experience!! We can’t wait to come back. We all said this was the coolest place we’ve ever stayed! Also so close to Franklin and Nashville which we also explored while we were here. Thanks to Emily and Robin for a wonderful stay! -The Miller family
Olivia M.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
8/10 Good
Chris N.
Oct 28, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Quick Franklin visit
We were in town for a quick Franklin visit. Overall, property was a great location with views from the back porch. Maybe not a good spot to come to relax, could hear music / instruments throughout most of the day till 6 pm at night.
Chris N.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024
8/10 Good
Jeff S.
Oct 13, 2024
Disliked: Cleanliness
Stay at Gatehouse
Beautiful property, friendly staff. The room was supplied with necessary provisions. The only issue is that the room needs a deep cleaning top to bottom. The kitchen shelves countertops and especially the bathroom floors were extremely dirty. That is not acceptable for any property where you have guests staying there. Thank you
Jeff S.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Tim H.
Oct 9, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Outstanding customer care and accomodations
Emily was wonderful and kept us informed about our accommodations. She helped us schedule a studio tour with Christian.
He is very easy to talk with and has a wealth of knowledge and information.The two of them were each top of the class employees. We also met Robin and again he was very welcoming.
Tim H.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Allison H.
Sep 24, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent
Excellent, easy, super cool!
Allison H.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Karen M.
Aug 12, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Executive Retreat
We had a total of 7 adult guests that stayed on the property and everything was great! The house and grounds are maintained exceptionally and it worked well for our team. We will definitely be back!
Karen M.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
Joanna W., California, United States
Jul 8, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Unique and peaceful getaway spot!!!
My boyfriend and I and our two dogs stayed for the night in the Gatehouse on our cross country drive. We are music lovers, so hearing the recording sessions taking place added such a cool element to our stay. The bed was so comfortable, the room was clean and beautiful, and the private porch was awesome!! We loved it!
Joanna W.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Christy R.
Jun 19, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
What a beautiful unique property!
We loved our stay, wish it could have been for longer than just one night. Thanks so much!
Christy R.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Susan G.
May 8, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful and unique
We enjoyed our stay. Close to Nashville. Excellent restaurants in nearby area. So comfy. You must sit on the deck and relax. Perfect!
Susan G.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Cynthia C.
Jul 19, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Inspiring!
I took my two teenage kids the gatehouse and it was better than I could have ever planned! Robin made us feel so welcome from the minute we arrived! The “cottage like” guesthouse is quiet, had beds for all of us, and a porch with an incredible view to have morning coffee! There happened to be a small music production class going on while we were there and the instructor and students were sharing great stories with my kids on their breaks. That in itself was a real life experience of driven young people working hard to achieve their goals. Who could have planned that?! Robin helped us with restaurant recommendations, fun places to see and even helped us find a lake to drive to and rent jet skiis the day that we left! She went above and beyond on any requests we made and we can’t wait to go back!
Cynthia C.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Meg E.
Jul 6, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing place - will definitely come back!
Everything was incredible - from the communication with the property manager, check-in, stay, and check-out. The location is breathtaking and so unique! We felt like we were stepping into a place where history has been and is made! We brought our dog with us and she was so welcomed by the whole staff!!! We loved our stay and will book here whenever we're back in the area!
Meg E.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Donna W., norco,ca
May 12, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Not your Ordinary Stay
We chose this place because of my husbands love for music. Plus we wanted something different. We were pleasantly surprised by this home/studio. Very quiet and peaceful most of the time. They did have some musicians recording when we were there. We loved it! Robin the manager was great! Really on top of things and Robin the owner was also there and met him several times. Very friendly and accommodating. Funky vibe but then we were born in the 50's and grew up in the 60's-70's. Thanks for the stay!
Donna W.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
10/10 Excellent
Cindy B.
May 8, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent Stay
The property and accommodations are excellent on all levels and Robin was an incredible host!
Cindy B.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023
10/10 Excellent
Brandi P.
Apr 15, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
The coolest
If you want a unique place to stay close to Franklin and Nashville TN, then look no further. The is an actual working recording studio. So a any given time you will hear music! The vibe is so chill!!! I can’t wait to
Go back!!! Thank you Robin for sharing a bit of your country paradise with us.
Brandi P.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
10/10 Excellent
Jamie C.
Apr 13, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful property
Great communication. Relaxing atmosphere
Jamie C.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023
10/10 Excellent
Misty N.
Feb 20, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Fun weekend!
Such a unique place to stay! Enjoyed our stay and loved talking with the young people that work there - so friendly and accommodating.
Misty N.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023
10/10 Excellent
Tara D., Savannah
Jan 19, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Property
In town only for the weekend and Robin’s place was the perfect accommodation! Well appointed and felt like a genuine getaway from our daily lives! Thanks for sharing the property with us!
Tara D.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023
8/10 Good
Cortnee C.
Jan 12, 2023
Disliked: Cleanliness
Good but needs a deep clean.
Good in many ways, location, host, unique place to stay. The host and his manager were excellent to deal with very helpful and accommodating even in the freezing temps!
However there are a few things I think could have been better or should be addressed for the next peeps.
The place needs a deep cleaning... there is dust every where. Before we used the stove we had to wipe the dust off. The bathroom had a layer of dirt and dust on the floor. It seemed like whoever cleaned it just wiped anything at eye level with a dry rag. I think this is simply something the host can address with the cleaners he hires. He should be made aware that the 65.00 cleaning fee isn't really worth it. One other thing to mention is the queen bed, it has seen better days it is caved in at the middle. Again just something the host should be aware of so he can resolve for the next person.
Cortnee C.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022
10/10 Excellent
Dana P.
Dec 13, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Birthday getaway
We enjoyed the solitude and uniqueness of this property. I was hoping to see a few stars, but it was mostly students and some very cute children cutting a Christmas cd for family.
Dana P.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022
10/10 Excellent
Marcia E., Florence AL
Dec 8, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Absolutely stunning! We loved the Gatehouse and will definitely return with our friends!
I love music and staying in the apartment was such a unique