James Ewart stable tour

James Ewart Tour

James Ewart stable tour

Langholm, Dumfries, DG13 0NZ
£90.00 per person

Tour Summary

Located in the valley of Eskdalemuir, which is just three miles from the Scottish Border town of Langholm we have put together a special package for anyone interested in horse racing – a fun and entertaining morning including breakfast, a trip to the gallops and an informative stable tour with trainer James Ewart.

But don't just take our word for it...

"We had a wonderful morning at Craig Farm. Briony and James were brilliant hosts. They explained in great detail, every aspect of their business, from the feed, to the bedding, the tack to the exercise, the stable staff to the owners and of course each and every one of the horses. Breakfast with James and his mum was a delight, but the highlight without doubt was watching the horses around the gallops. We learned so much about what it takes to train a racehorse and the highs and lows of the racing world." Tricia and Ian Oakes

"Jamie thoroughly enjoyed his time with James and his team. He was made to feel very welcome and James was happy to spend a deal of time with him explaining what was happening and why at each stage of the stable work process. Jamie found it most enlightening. Please pass on his thanks to the team - particularly James, and also Jo in the office..." Richard Combe

"Highlights of the day for us were firstly, getting to see all the horses in the yard in their box and getting the lowdown from James on their progress to date and his expectations for the season. Secondly, getting to watch (at close proximity) a couple of lots working on the gallops. And lastly but not least, the wonderful breakfast laid on for us, the hospitality was second to none..." Maxwell Lee

Tour History

James Ewart Racing was set-up in 2004 by James and Briony Ewart. Prior to this James had been assistant to Guillaume Macaire in France and worked for Ferdy Murphy, Jonjo O’Neil and Nicky Henderson.

Since taking out his licence in 2004 James has trained over 100 winners and over 300 placed horses with an impressive around 20 per cent winners ratio and 60 per cent placed ratio.

Captain Americo deserves a good pot having run so consistently in the top staying races in the north, Beneficial Reform won twice at Doncaster breaking the course record on the second occasion.

Novice hurdle standouts are Bumper winners Lord Wishes and Ueueteotl, while novice chasers Un Guet Apens and Zaru should also pay their way this season.

Of the newcomers Sharivarry, Mandarin Sunset and Teo Vivo are very nice point-to-point recruits and of the youngsters Unex Canaletto (juvenile hurdles), Scorpions Sting and Touch of Steel (juvenile Bumpers).

Facilities at Craig Farm include a five-and-a-half furlong sand gallop and seven furlong grass hill gallop, French schooling Ménage, a bespoke 10 bay Monarch horse walker, plus the Michael Dickinson five furlong Tapeta Track.

Tour Itinerary

Fridays and Saturdays (available October to April inclusive)

Start time: 8am (three-hour tour)

The fun starts the moment you arrive at Craig Farm, Eskdalemuir, Langholm, where the day commences in the best way possible over a winning breakfast (guaranteed to set you up for the day) with James.

Afterwards James will drive you to the gallops to watch the string being put through their paces at first hand.

Next it is back to the stables and enjoy an informative tour of the yard to gain an insiders' view to some of the equine stars 'looking over the doors'.

Then over a mug of coffee you'll get the chance to ask James about the workings of a racing yard and hear tales 'from the horse's mouth' from his career in the Sport of Kings.

  • You will also receive a gift badge as a lasting memento of your visit.
  • For comfort and safety each tour is limited to groups of four.
  • Under 16s must be accompanied by a participating adult.
  • Finally, remember to pack your wellington boots and some warm clothing.
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