Belle Meade Plantation

Belle Meade Plantation is a Greek Revival house in Belle Meade, Tennessee, surrounded by historical outbuildings and reconstructed quarters across its grounds. The white column facade dominates the front of the house, while behind the main structure sit stables, a carriage house and other buildings.

John Harding built a log cabin on a small tract in 1807 and gradually expanded the property into one of America's leading thoroughbred farms. By the mid-1800s, the estate bred racehorses that competed across the country.

The name comes from French and means "beautiful meadow", referring to the rolling pastures where racehorses once grazed. Visitors today walk through restored stables and learn about the breeding practices that made this property famous across the region.

The site sits on Harding Pike west of Nashville and offers tours through the main house plus tastings at its winery. Visitors should plan time to explore several buildings and join the programs offered throughout the day.

The estate raised Iroquois, the first American-bred horse to win the English Derby in 1881, bringing international recognition. This victory brought worldwide attention to the farm and drew breeders from Europe eager to study its bloodlines.

Location: Belle Meade

Inception: 1807

Architectural style: Greek Revival architecture

Address: 5025 Harding Pike

GPS coordinates: 36.10556,-86.86500

Latest update: December 17, 2025 09:46