Whimsical Gatehouse / Private Porch / Kitchenette
Apartment in Franklin, TN
3 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bath
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Great for petsBring all your friends and family, even the furry ones
Includes essentialsGarden, Pets allowed, Kitchen or Kitchenette and more
About this apartment rental
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 four overnight guests. The Gatehouse features a
queen bed, day bed and a loft 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: Dogs are permitted at our properties, with approval in advance. A pet
fee will be payable upon arrival of $75 per dog. Please note renter is responsible for any damage by wayward pups. If you plan to bring your dogs, please let us know so that we can send you our full pet policy page.
- 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!
property offers a one-of-a-kind experience. A perfect setting for friends and families to
unplug and reconnect.
This residence can accommodate four overnight guests. The Gatehouse features a
queen bed, day bed and a loft 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: Dogs are permitted at our properties, with approval in advance. A pet
fee will be payable upon arrival of $75 per dog. Please note renter is responsible for any damage by wayward pups. If you plan to bring your dogs, please let us know so that we can send you our full pet policy page.
- 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!
Amenities
Air conditioner
Pets allowed
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
TV
Garden
Map of Franklin, TN
RRRR
Ratings and reviews
5.0 / 5.0
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!
5.0 / 5.0
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!
5.0 / 5.0
We loved our stay, wish it could have been for longer than just one night. Thanks so much!
5.0 / 5.0
We enjoyed our stay. Close to Nashville. Excellent restaurants in nearby area. So comfy. You must sit on the deck and relax. Perfect!
5.0 / 5.0
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!
5.0 / 5.0
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!
5.0 / 5.0
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!
5.0 / 5.0
The property and accommodations are excellent on all levels and Robin was an incredible host!
5.0 / 5.0
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.
5.0 / 5.0
Great communication. Relaxing atmosphere
5.0 / 5.0
Such a unique place to stay! Enjoyed our stay and loved talking with the young people that work there - so friendly and accommodating.
5.0 / 5.0
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!
4.0 / 5.0
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.
5.0 / 5.0
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.
5.0 / 5.0
I love music and staying in the apartment was such a unique
5.0 / 5.0
I unexpectedly found this property and honestly had no idea what to expect. What a great discovery. We had everything we needed in such a unique and private retreat. The staff was friendly and helpful and the grounds were so pretty. The property is super convenient to Leiper's Fork and Franklin and we took advantage of all both towns had to offer. Thanks for the great stay!
5.0 / 5.0
WOW! This place is something to see. It's so so different and unique and full of coolness. Nestled in the country, but so close to the center of Franklin and Leiper's Fork this property was the perfect place to stay for 2 nights while touring around the area. Despite being located in a working studio it was quiet and comfortable. Emily was so easy to work with and was so helpful. Ask for a tour of the studios, it's an audiophile's dream!
5.0 / 5.0
What a house! So cool to explore and find a great quiet spot to relax and enjoy the silence. Our room was clean and included everything we needed. We enjoyed our stay.
5.0 / 5.0
We had a great time at the gatehouse, and at the Dark Horse Estate in general. In the main living area there are artists and engineers doing their thing, such a cool vibe if you love music! The room itself is very cozy and neat, with a very private feel to the porch area. Emily did a great job with the check in process and made us feel very much at home. Overall, we would definitely come back for a weekend getaway!
5.0 / 5.0
My husband and I (and our two fur babies) enjoyed our stay at the Dark Horse so very much! Robin, Emilee and Hailey were absolutely the best host/hostesses! The Dark Horse is the R&R spot you never knew you needed!
We can’t wait to return soon with more family!
5.0 / 5.0
Love love love this property, we had an amazing time staying here. Such a unique experience. If you’re looking for something that shows a part of the music industry that people don’t normally think about, the recording process this is a great place to visit. Also the accommodations were outstanding and the view of the property from our en suite deck. Thanks Robin and team for a great stay.
5.0 / 5.0
This was the perfect getaway for my husband and me! We celebrated our 17th anniversary! It was such a peaceful place and the restaurants downtown Franklin were delicious! I highly recommend this place!
5.0 / 5.0
Just loved the facility but what made the place even better were the staff and people there. Just great to work with and a pleasure to do business with as well.
5.0 / 5.0
The ultimate experience
Amazing, amazing property and on-site service. Everything you would ask for with the room as well as propert experience. Also close to shopping, music, sight seeing and rural experience. Will stay at this property as often as travel takes us there!!
5.0 / 5.0
Nothing short of magical
I am rendered speechless by how incredible our experience at the Dark Horse was. It was a bucket list item I never knew existed! It is literally a small slice of heaven- a once in a lifetime experience. Robin and Emilee are fantastic. They made us feel right at home and we will cherish the memories of our time here forever! Thank you!
5.0 / 5.0
Right out of a storybook.
Dark Horse is a beautiful place and we really enjoyed ourselves. My daughter especially appreciated the tour. One caveat: We were fine, but anyone with mobility issues would have challenges with all the stairs.
5.0 / 5.0
Spectacular
We absolutely loved this place and will come again. Beautiful grounds and a cozy room with a view minutes from everything we like in Franklin. Hosts were kind and offered my family members a studio tour, which was a highlight.
5.0 / 5.0
Paradise in the Country
Friendly. Beautiful. Different in a Great Way. All people there, including the owner Robin and Emilee the assistant/tour guide/source of answers to all questions, made our stay very special.
5.0 / 5.0
Paradise in the Country
One of a Kind.
A working recording studio in an idyllic setting close to great towns.
The staff is more than helpful and kind. The owner humble and sincerely interested in you as people and as a guest.
5.0 / 5.0
Great experience.
Really liked the property and experience.
5.0 / 5.0
One of a kind, unique rental.
The gatehouse was clean and very comfortable. Being close to where music was being made and produced was very exciting and interesting. The property is in a serene setting and the host was very gracious and kind. Justin (intern) was very informative about the production side of the music business and toured us around. We were able to sit in on some recording sessions and converse with the artists and producers. Short drive to music row . Definitely one of a kind vacation!
5.0 / 5.0
Music studio retreat.
This place has great vibes, convenient location, amazing architecture, beautiful setting, and an amazing manager. Emily was friendly and had spot on restaurant information. When she said the “Cheeserie “ had the best sandwiches , she wasn’t kidding. Her dinner suggestion, “1892” was also delicious. As a golfer herself, she directed us to a course that we won’t soon forget. While it kicked our butts, it was a great experience. She responded immediately to any questions or requests. Staying at a real recording studio is the perfect setting for your Nashville area vacation. Too cool.
5.0 / 5.0
A truly special place for a memorable experience
I was looking for a unique place to stay and found it at The Dark Horse. Robin and Emilee were fabulous hosts. Great communication and responsiveness and very accommodating and friendly. The property itself is gorgeous and a true hidden gem. Our room was the perfect size and layout and the porch was where we spent most of our time just talking and listening to music. I knew it was going to be an unforgettable stay when we heard Dolly Parton singing in one of the studios. We’ll never forget our stay and will be coming back to stay one day one soon.
I highly recommend this place. It was fabulous and so chill.
5.0 / 5.0
Beautiful country views
Beautiful property away from the bustle of Nashville. Staff was helpful and friendly.
5.0 / 5.0
Wonderful
Couldn’t have asked for a better place or better people to deal with!
5.0 / 5.0
One of the best places we have ever stayed. The opener and Emily were the best people!!
Wonderful atmosphere with wonderful people. I highly suggest checking this place out you will not be disappointed!!
4.0 / 5.0
Lacked details
Numerous light bulbs out, jacuzzi tub inoperable, lack of clean seating on porch areas, lack of seating in room, microwave lacked power, old appliances, a kuerig would be nice this day and age
5.0 / 5.0
Great trip
Loved it!! Emily is a dream!!!
4.0 / 5.0
Great Location
We enjoyed our stay at Dark Horse.
5.0 / 5.0
Great Place!
Great place and lovely staff!
FAQs
How much does this apartment cost compared to others in Franklin?
The average price for a rental in Franklin is R 3,041 per night. This rental is R 2,950 above the average.
Is parking included with this apartment?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Whimsical Gatehouse / Private Porch / Kitchenette. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this apartment?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this apartment. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is Whimsical Gatehouse / Private Porch / Kitchenette pet friendly?
Yes! This apartment is pet-friendly. For more information, we recommend contacting the booking provider about animal policies.
What amenities are available at Whimsical Gatehouse / Private Porch / Kitchenette?
We found 9 amenities for this rental. This includes air conditioner, pets allowed, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, and parking.
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