A Return to GrayBarns
After such a memorable experience at GrayBarns in 2018, it was top of mind when planning our itinerary for a restful holiday getaway. It was our first stop before Kenoza Hall, which I covered here last week.
GrayBarns is located on the Silvermine River about an hour outside of New York City, in Silvermine, CT. It dates all the way back to the 17th century when the area was once popular as a village meeting place, and GrayBarns served as an artist outpost, and stagecoach stop.
Structurally, what is now GrayBarns began as a small textile factory at the turn of the 19th century. It became a speakeasy during the 1920s before legitimizing itself after the end of Prohibition. The property thrived throughout the 1960s as a classic country Inn, with visits from the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Spencer Tracy, and Lauren Bacall.
Present-day, GrayBarns comprises an Inn, Tavern, and Mercantile, offering guests a full 360-brand experience right on the property. What was originally the tavern, now houses the Inn and has been renovated back to its stately structure of classic influence, with ample porches and tall columns, situated on a bluff overlooking Guthrie pond. The Inn consists of six beautifully appointed king suites each featuring a spacious bedroom, living area, and full-size bath with soaking tub. Guests are also able to receive massages in the comfort of their rooms.
We stayed in the Hutchens room our last stay and this time the Addison was our home away from home.
The Tavern at GrayBarns sits adjacent to Guthrie pond. It’s quite well known for its ambiance and intimate dining experience, but we decided to order room service just to be extra safe, due to Covid. The culinary fare is elegant comfort food that draws on seasonal ingredients and local farms and purveyors.
Much of the homeware in the rooms are actually available to purchase at Graygoods across the street from the Inn! It’s a newly renovated country store and a great spot to pop-over for coffee or shop the look.
We drove into town and stopped by Terrain, a huge plant and home goods store, which I believe used to be a car dealership.
From the moment we arrived at GrayBarns, there was an overwhelming feeling of slowing down. Thank you GrayBarns on the Silvermine River for hosting such a beautiful and relaxing stay.