William Muir & Chris Grassick Racing.
William Muir & Chris Grassick Racing.
Nestled in the heart of the Berkshire Downs, Linkslade Stables is one of Lambourn’s most storied and respected training yards. Its roots stretch back to the late 19th century, when the site was known as Cozey Lodge, a working stable from 1882 until 1953. During this early period, Lambourn was already gaining recognition as the “Valley of the Racehorse,” and Cozey Lodge played a quiet but steady role in the area’s equestrian development.
In the 1960s, the yard was revived and renamed Farringdon Road Stables under trainer G. Spann, continuing its contribution to the local racing scene. But the most transformative chapter began in 1972, when legendary jockey and trainer Stan Mellor built the current yard at Mile End, just off Wantage Road. Mellor, the first jump jockey to ride 1,000 winners, brought vision and professionalism to the site, laying the groundwork for a purpose-built training facility that would serve generations of racehorses.
Linkslade’s location offers direct access to the Mandown Gallops, now managed by Jockey Club Estates, providing trainers with world-class turf and all-weather surfaces. This proximity to premium gallops has always been one of Linkslade’s greatest assets, allowing for varied and high-quality conditioning programs.
In 1993, the yard entered a new era when William Muir and his wife Janet took over.
At the time, the facilities were in need of restoration, and William invested heavily in upgrading the property. The trainer’s house was re-roofed, the stables were modernized, and the infrastructure expanded to include 70 boxes, each with its own fresh water supply. Today, the yard has the capacity to grow to over 100 boxes, making it one of the most versatile and well-equipped in Lambourn.
Under William Muir’s stewardship, Linkslade became synonymous with consistency, care, and competitive success.
Horses like Averti, Enforcer, Stepper Point, and the Group One-winning Pyledriver were all trained here, showcasing the yard’s ability to develop elite talent. William's philosophy—treating each horse as an individual and blending traditional horsemanship with modern techniques—has made Linkslade a trusted name among owners and breeders.
In 2021, Muir partnered with Chris Grassick, forming a joint training license that brought fresh energy and international insight to the operation. Chris, with experience in Australia, Japan, Ireland, and Saudi Arabia, complements William's decades of expertise with a
data-driven and globally informed approach. Together, they continue to evolve Linkslade’s legacy, producing winners and maintaining the highest standards of horse welfare.
Today, Linkslade Stables stands as a beacon of excellence in British flat racing—a place where history, innovation, and horsemanship converge. It remains a cornerstone of the Lambourn racing community, respected not only for its past but for its ongoing contribution to the sport.