The Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Situated only 25 miles southwest of Lexington on nearly 3,000 acres of rolling bluegrass farmland in Harrodsburg, Kentucky, is The Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill. This National Historic Landmark serves as a reminder of life’s simple pleasures – good food, comfortable beds, welcoming stories, brisk hikes, stirring music and peace and quiet.

In 1805, a group of shakers came to rural Kentucky and established a Village named Pleasant Hill. The population peaked to almost 500 in the 1820s and the community acquired more than 4,000 acres of farmland. However, after the 1860s, changing social attitudes and the Industrial Revolution signalled the community’s decline. By 1923, sadly the last Pleasant Hill Shaker died and the buildings, property and belongings passed into private hands.

Over the years, Pleasant Hill became just a small town called Shakertown, and the Shakers were all but forgotten. But thankfully in 1961 an educational corporation was formed to restore the Village and today visitors come to enjoy a peaceful way of life in over 3,000 acres of pristine Kentucky countryside.

Stay at The Shaker Village.

You’ll love The Inn at Shaker Village! With only 70 rooms, suites and private cottages spread through the 13 original, restored buildings. Each room boasts perfect countryside views and Shaker furniture. Don’t be surprised to see a relaxing rocking chair in the corner of your room and an inviting fireplace- this is a retreat from the everyday!

Dine at The Shaker Village.

From Farm to Fork, traditional favourites and seasonal Kentucky dishes inspired by ingredients locally grown are served daily. Tomato celery soup, fried chicken, salsify casserole and Shaker lemon pie are just some of the delicious tempting fayre available.

The Stable at The Shaker Village

Enjoy the Kentucky countryside on horseback! Daily trails are available through wooded paths, open prairies and across rugged hillsides. Half day and full day guided riding options for all levels are available. Bon Voyage would be delighted to pre-book this for you as part of your Kentucky fly-drive holiday.

The Riverboat at The Shaker Village

All Aboard The Dixie Belle Riverboat! Cruise along a stretch of the Kentucky River Palisades through high limestone cliffs and untouched natural beauty on this lovingly restored riverboat. These trips depart from nearby Shaker Landing between April and October.

Activities at The Shaker Village

Explore the Nature Preserve home to 150 species of local migrating birds, or hike over 40 miles of woodland trails. Enjoy a leisurely Wagon ride through the Village pulled by the 2,000 pound Percheron draft mares, Blue and Ivy. Take a tour of the 34 restored 19^th century buildings, and listen to talks about Shaker life and beliefs, the theology and architecture. Enjoy life on the farm! The Livestock programme includes the milking Shorthorn cattle, Bakewell and Leicester sheep and various breeds of poultry, such as Dominique chickens.

Canoes and kayaks are also available to hire from the Village, perfect for an afternoons paddle along the Kentucky river!

Call Bon Voyage to include The Village at Pleasant Hill as part of your Kentucky holiday.