Castleton, a sprawling 951-acre equestrian estate in Lexington, Kentucky, has been listed for $57.5 million by Bluegrass Sotheby’s International Realty. Steeped in racing history and widely recognized as one of the most photographed farms in the Bluegrass region, the landmark property belongs to the family of the late Tony Ryan, who co-founded Ryanair in 1984.
History and Thoroughbred Heritage of Castleton
Dating back to 1793, Castleton has operated as an equine enterprise for more than two centuries across Standardbreds, Saddlebreds, and Thoroughbreds. According to Bluegrass Sotheby’s International Realty, the farm once housed 1896 Kentucky Derby winner Ben Brush and legendary sire Domino. Other notable champions associated with the grounds include Eclipse Award winner Gio Ponti, Grade 1 victors Jack Christopher and Gormley, and Longines Test Stakes winner Chi Town Lady.
After retiring from racing in 1966, Standardbred harness racing horse Bret Hanover stood at stud at Castleton, becoming one of the most successful harness racing stallions in history. Beyond its equine pedigree, the property gained broader cultural recognition after being featured in the 2005 Disney film “Dreamer,” which starred Kurt Russell and Dakota Fanning.
Estate Architecture and Facilities
The centerpiece of 2469 Iron Works Pike is an 13,500-square-foot Greek Revival mansion constructed in 1840, featuring seven bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms. The gated property also contains architectural landmarks such as an iconic stone round tower, a covered bridge, staff quarters, a guest house, and an equine cemetery.
For working equine operations, the estate includes 16 barns ranging from four-stall layouts to a 30-stall facility, totaling 268 stables. According to listing details, Tony Ryan acquired the historic site in 2001 for $14 million and completed subsequent upgrades before passing away in 2007.
Reason for Sale and Auction Contingency
Shane Ryan, son of Tony Ryan, has owned and managed the property as a horse-breeding operation since his father’s death, residing on an adjacent site. According to listing agent Ken Donworth of Bluegrass Sotheby’s, the farm is being sold because Shane Ryan spends the majority of his time in Europe, and his children do not share the same level of passion for equestrian life.
“Castleton has existed as an equine operation for more than two centuries, whether with Standardbreds, Saddlebreds or Thoroughbreds, and we have been the sixth stewards of this historic farm,” Shane Ryan said in prepared remarks.
If the 951-acre property fails to sell on the open market, it is scheduled to be auctioned off as the final lot of the invitation-only Keeneland Championship Sale on October 28, timed to coincide with the approach of the Breeders’ Cup World Championships.
Keep reading