Laid-Back Luxury

The new, 55-room Inn at Barnsley Resort takes inspiration from the work of British architect Edwin Lutyens.

A Queen’s Suite at the Inn features a spacious terrace overlooking the resort’s lush, natural landscape.

The Farmstead Cheese Board from the Woodlands Grill at Barnsley Resort.

Horseback riding is among the multitude of outdoor activities at Barnsley.

Cozy sitting areas surround a fireplace in the ground-floor living room of the Inn at Barnsley Resort.

The Manor House Ruins at Barnsley are often used for weddings and special events.

More than 3,000 acres of blooming gardens, rolling putting greens and historic architectural sites define the landscape of Barnsley Resort, which resides among the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains just 60 miles northwest of Atlanta. Built by Godfrey Barnsley in the 1840s, the estate now houses a pedestrian village, event venues, recreational facilities and luxurious accommodations totaling 150 rooms. 

In addition to 36 freestanding one- and multi-bedroom cottages, lodging options now include the new 55-room Inn at Barnsley Resort, which opened this year. Inspired by the Italianate and Gothic Revival style of architect Andrew Jackson Downing as well as the English country homes of architect Edwin Lutyens, the Inn’s details include dormer windows, hardwood floors, a grand staircase and exposed beams. Rooms are equipped with luxe touches such as 55-inch LED televisions, Keurig coffee makers and quartzite bathroom countertops—and an extraordinarily friendly staff is always on hand to assist with questions or requests. 

Located just a short stroll from your living quarters are plenty of opportunities for leisure and recreation—from horseback riding and fly-fishing to cornhole and disc golf. Ten miles of hiking or biking trails, 28-station clay courses and an 1,800-acre hunting preserve offer plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors. Golf enthusiasts can spend an afternoon on 378 acres of championship greens, which offer views of Barnsley’s lake and gardens. If rest and relaxation are on your agenda, indulge in a restorative treatment at the recently renovated Spa at Barnsley Resort or lounge by the adjacent saltwater pool. 

Among Barnsley’s historic sites are the Manor House Ruins, remains of the 19th-century home Godfrey Barnsley built for his wife, Julia. Next door, the Barnsley Museum is housed in the Manor’s original kitchen wing. Helmed by Barnsley historian and museum director Clent Coker, it is home to intriguing Barnsley family heirlooms and historic artifacts. 

Also on the property are three restaurants. The Woodlands Grill offers golf-course views and a Southern-inspired menu. A renovated, 19th-century farmhouse, the Rice House features an elevated menu of fresh yard-to-fork fare. For a drink or casual meal, the Beer Garden offers comfort food and more than 30 craft beer selections, which can be enjoyed outdoors underneath a canopy of patio lights. 

Whether your visit is action-packed or driven by leisure, after just a few days here, Barnsley will feel like home. barnsleyresort.com