Tom Dascombe’s main yard is located at Frenchmans Lodge Stables in Upper Lambourn.

Tom Dascombe Racing, Frenchmans Lodge Stables. Upper Lambourn. Hungerford. Berkshire. RG17 8QW

(Grid Reference: SU 30986 80533)

Tom has undertaken considerable renovations and updates to the yard and welcomes enquiries and visits, by appointment, to see the horses and the stables.

Frenchmans Lodge Stables, located in Lambourn, England, has a rich and diverse history that spans several decades. It has been home to renowned trainers and remarkable horses, each leaving their mark on the racing world.

Before Tom took over as the current trainer, the stable was home to Harry Dunlop, born in 1976, and the son of the legendary Epsom Derby-winning trainer John Dunlop and his wife Sue. With racing in his blood, Harry’s destiny was intertwined with the sport. His godfather, the esteemed Sir Henry Cecil, provided guidance and support throughout his career. Harry gained valuable experience at various stables worldwide, including working as an assistant to Nicky Henderson at Seven Barrows and spending several years under the tutelage of Sir Henry Cecil from 1999 to 2002.

In 2002, Harry returned to his father’s Castle Stables in Arundel, where he prepared himself for the transition to becoming a trainer. After obtaining his trainer’s license, he embarked on his own training career. In September 2006, Harry and his wife Christina relocated to the historic Windsor House Stables in Lambourn, taking over from Ralph Beckett, who had moved to Whitsbury Manor Stables. November 2, 2006, Harry celebrated his first runner, Situla, winning the Median Auction Fillies Stakes at Wolverhampton, owned by Anamoine Ltd and ridden by Dane O’Neill.

Throughout his career, Harry Dunlop achieved notable victories not only in the UK but also in prestigious racing venues abroad. His horses triumphed in races held in Compiegne, Longchamp, Chantilly, Deauville, Saint-Cloud, and Maisons-Lafitte. Among his notable winners were Knight to Behold and Robin of Navan, who became favourites of both the stable and racing enthusiasts. In mid-2018, Harry made the decision to relocate his training operation to Frenchmans Lodge Stables in Upper Lambourn, hoping to continue his successful track record at the new venue.

While Harry Dunlop enjoyed four successful seasons at Frenchmans Lodge Stables, claiming victories with horses such as Adaay in Asia at Goodwood, Ascot, and York, he announced his decision to close the yard at the end of the 2022. Harry is now looking to carve out a new career in bloodstock, and is exploring different avenues within the industry.

Prior to Harry Dunlop’s tenure, the stables were occupied by Brendan Powell, a Grand National-winning jockey. Between 2015 and 2017, Brendan trained a number of high-profile winners at Frenchmans Lodge Stables, showcasing his expertise both in the UK and in Dubai. He left a lasting impact on the stable’s legacy.

Before Brendan Powell, Sean Currant trained from Frenchmans Lodge Stables, contributing to the stable’s success with his own unique achievements and training methods.

Today, under the guidance of Tom Dascombe, Frenchmans Lodge Stables looks toward a bright future while cherishing its rich history. Tom, a classic-winning trainer and former resident of Manor House Stables in Cheshire, brings his wealth of experience to continue the stable’s tradition of excellence. With his training prowess and dedication, Tom strives to further elevate the reputation of Frenchmans Lodge Stables as a premier training facility in the racing world.