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Rudyard Kipling’s Naulakha Stable preserved as unique overnight rental
Vermont’s newest overnight rental property may be its most unique. Constructed in 1896 for Nobel Prize winning author Rudyard Kipling’s horses, Nip and Tuck, Naulakha Stable now offers a charming retreat for 2 guests in the former hayloft along with an authentically preserved stable and private display on Kipling’s life in Vermont below.
Originally restored along with the larger Naulakha estate in the 1990s, Naulakha Stable complements the estate’s other whole house vacation rentals: Naulakha and Kipling’s Carriage House. The estate was the home of Kipling’s family and staff in the 1890s, and it was here that the Nobel Prize winner penned The Jungle Books and other acclaimed stories. The grounds feature a clay tennis court, a nearly football field length rhododendron tunnel, and expansive views. The site is operated by The Landmark Trust USA (LTUSA) under a unique preservation stewardship model pioneered by The Landmark Trust in Great Britain. All work on the property follows the highest preservation standards, and proceeds from stays in the historic homes support the buildings’ long term maintenance while providing guests with immersive experiences with history.
The results of the Stable’s rehabilitation are dramatic and serve as an example of the striking character and environmental benefit of reusing historic materials. Reclaimed Eastern white pine from earlier restoration projects was used to match the historic beaded tongue and groove look of the wider estate. After eco-friendly cellulose insulation was added, the original flooring was carefully put back, sanded, and treated with a finish made with dairy whey protein from a Vermont supplier. Doors were discovered in storage right at the Stable and put to use. Other materials like bathroom tiles and the pine sheathing used in the cupola and stairway walls were recovered from the neighboring Scott Farm grounds. Most remaining building materials were sourced locally. Cherry used in the stairs, trim, cabinet doors, and shelves was harvested and milled just a few miles away and donated to the project. Pine for the ceiling and knee walls came from close by in New Hampshire. Additionally, the interior view of the character defining cupola, which serves as the inspiration for the LTUSA logo, was maintained and adds additional light to the space.
“We’re thrilled to offer guests our first ‘new’ Landmark in many years,” says LTUSA Executive Director Susan McMahon. “The Naulakha Stable opens the magic of Kipling’s beautiful estate to even more people and helps ensure this special place remains available for future generations to enjoy.”
Naulakha Stable joins LTUSA’s 5 other historic Vermont rental properties including Naulakha (1892), Kipling’s Carriage House (1895), Dutton Farmhouse (an 1849 Greek Revival farmhouse overlooking the Scott Farm heirloom apple orchard), The Sugarhouse (a 1915 former maple sap house), and Amos Brown House (an 1802 brick Cape on 30 private acres).
The Landmark Trust USA is a nonprofit organization based in southern Vermont that preserves historic properties through creative, sustainable uses for public enjoyment, education, and inspiration. LTUSA’s beautifully restored properties, including Rudyard Kipling’s Naulakha, are available year-round for short-term vacation rentals and small gatherings. Additionally, Scott Farm, a Certified B Corporation, is a for-profit working farm subsidiary of LTUSA specializing in heirloom apples. The nonprofit selects properties based on architectural and historical merit, with current properties dating from the early 1800s to 1910s. Each stay at a Landmark Trust property supports the organization’s nonprofit mission, bringing new life to heritage buildings. Learn more at landmarktrustusa.org.
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