Photos courtesy Of barnsley resort
The fountain, perched on its original Italian marble base, trickled water as the crowd gathered around it, their curiosity piqued.
“Do you know why I chose this spot to tell you this story?” Karry, our guide, had asked, her voice carrying a hint of intrigue. “Because it was in this very spot that the young couple would sit and discuss their aspirations for their children — just like couples do today.”
We were in the heart of the perfectly manicured labyrinth garden, part of the estate created in the 1840s by British businessman-turned-cotton broker Godfrey Barnsley, for his beloved wife, Julia.
“They ran their hands along these same hedges, just like I do today,” Karry said while slowly brushing outstretched fingers across the trimmed greenery, “and talked about their future,” she added as I, along with the other resort guests, listened while balancing full wine goblets and plates stacked with local cheese and crackers.
This was the historic tour of Barnsley Resort, a dip into the irresistible love story (wine and cheese tasting included) of Godfrey and Julia Barnsley, the couple that brought this property into existence almost 200 years ago. Sadly, Julia would pass away before its completion, but so bereaved was Godfrey that he swore her ghost regularly visited him there. The tour concluded at the onsite museum, which was filled with black-and-white images of the couple at this once-remote location in the Georgia mountains and the expansive family that lived there.
Today, it is much easier to reach Barnsley Resort. A quick flight from Fort Lauderdale to Atlanta followed by an hour-long drive to Adairsville is all it takes. One of the first things I noticed upon arrival was the birds. While Florida has its fair share of egrets, ducks and blue jays, birdsong can be heard throughout Barnsley Resort’s 3,000 acres, adding an extra layer of serenity to the already welcoming Southern hospitality that characterizes the property.
An entire walkable village awaits. Guests have the option to stay at the Inn at Barnsley Resort, which boasts 55 handsome guest rooms and suites inspired by the British architect Edwin Lutyens (known for designing stately country homes at the turn of the last century), or do as I did and stay at one of the quaint cottages.
Nestled within the woods, these set the tone for a relaxing private getaway. They vary in size (the largest sleeps up to 14 people), making a visit here with extended family an alluring option.
No detail goes unnoticed inside the cottage’s chic space — from expertly karate-chopped cushions propped on the window bench to a working fireplace. Plush beds promise restful sleep and a claw‑foot bathtub beckons for a hot soak after a long day of fun. Each cottage has two porches from which to enjoy the view. The 37 cottages are in the midst of a makeover (expected to be complete in the fall), with upgrades including new furniture and fixtures, all with an aesthetic that focuses on blended textures and patterns inspired by a heritage color palette and the flora and fauna of the South.
Notably, Barnsley Resort fosters a sense of community. Many of the cabins line the main lawn where families can be found relaxing on Adirondack chairs circling fire pits. Find yourself at one at 9 p.m. and you’ll be privy to s’mores. Kids roam freely on scooters or bicycles (available free of charge to guests) and dogs on this pet-friendly property get their fair share of love from strangers too tempted to resist giving them belly rubs.
And while there is an organic feel to the property today, plenty of careful planning went into its layout. Landscape architect Andrew Jackson Downing (considered one of the founders of American landscape architecture) conjured the sprawling gardens while Barnsley, an avid world traveler and amateur horticulturist, helped populate them, collecting exotic plant specimens and tree seedlings from around the globe and planting them on the grounds. Many, like the China fir tree, still stand proudly today.
As beautiful and layered with history as this property is, it’s the people working at Barnsley Resort that add a personal touch.
The staff is friendly and attentive without being overbearing. Many have worked there for years, with several having grown up in it as children of employees before going on to work there as adults — a testament to the deep passion and connection created.
When it comes to dining, Barnsley Resort offers a culinary experience rich in talent. Head to The Woodlands for breakfast and indulge in eggs Benedict with smoked salmon. Take in expansive views of the golf course and recharge with a burger for lunch. The upscale Rice House (reopening in the fall) is a picturesque 19th-century farmhouse where garden-to-table dining translates to using local, fresh ingredients, many from the property’s farm. The night I visited, Poached Sablefish with sunchoke cream, asparagus and green garlic espuma and Beef Bourguignon with braised Denver steak, pommes purée, heritage pork lardons, heirloom carrots and chestnut mushrooms were on the menu. Seeking something more casual? The Beer Garden is a natural gathering spot to kick back and savor regional craft brews along with barbecue classics like Pulled Pork Nachos and a Beef Brisket Sandwich. On weekends, live music adds to the festive vibe.
Drinks are equally celebrated. Bourbon fans will find daily tastings of Barnsley Resort’s signature Smoked Pecan Infused Bourbon (watch it being distilled in the lobby) and bourbon experiences led by Certified Bourbon Steward Jackson Vaught. (Don’t leave without sampling the Old-Fashioned cocktail.) The property has four custom wine labels created in partnership with California-based William Knuttel Winery that oenophiles will fall in love with.
There’s no shortage of activities at Barnsley Resort. Hike through the forest’s many trails and discover nooks and crannies tucked deep within. Like treasure waiting to be found, hidden refuges donning hammocks, sculptures and even seating in honor of Prince Hubertus Fugger — the German royal who owned the property in the ’90s — await. Grab a bike and explore, making a pitstop at the relaxing Meditation Garden. If you are a horse lover, head to the stables for a guided ride. Archery, introduction to air rifles and axe throwing are available onsite. Alternatively, visit the Beretta Shooting Grounds By High Adventure Company for clay shooting, the 1,000 Yard Challenger and hunting — hunting dogs included. While there, go on an adventure in a utility terrain vehicle (UTV).
After all the outdoor fun, you’ll want to visit the spa. The Tea-LC combines the healing properties of massage, sugar scrub and a mask infused with the nourishing benefit of tea leaves. Salt Serenity incorporates Himalayan hot salt stones to stimulate circulation and soothe sore muscles and the Barnsley Bamboo Massage is inspired by the signature scent of the resort using the calming effects of lavender and the application of gently warmed bamboo sticks throughout the treatment.
Perhaps the one downside is that no matter how long you stay, it will never feel long enough. With each day that passed while I was there, the resort’s charm deepened, casting a spell that bound together its past and present. On my last night, after enjoying yet another exceptional meal, I meandered along the now-familiar path toward my cottage, with the resort’s tagline, “Escape Together,” resonating deeply as I passed clusters of friends and family laughing on the lawn. It isn’t just a slogan; it is a testament to the essence of Barnsley Resort’s mission. Families come, just like Godfrey and Julia Barnsley first did, to dream, connect and forge memories that last a lifetime.
Barnsley Resort is located at 597 Barnsley Gardens Road, Adairsville, Ga. For more information, call 770-773-7480 or visit barnsleyresort.com.
