BEHIND THE BARN DOORS
HISTORY
A HISTORIC SETTING FOR THOROUGHBRED SUCCESS
Located in the heart of the North Wessex Downs, Churn Stables enjoys a setting perfectly suited to racehorse training. The natural topography of the chalk downland provides excellent drainage and high-quality turf, making it ideal for galloping and year-round preparation. These hills have long been prized by the racing community for their training potential.
The estate's racing legacy began when it was owned by Reading University. During that period, the grass gallops were leased by classic-winning trainer Fulke Johnson-Houghton, who used them—alongside his own Woodway gallops—to train a string of top-class Flat horses.
In the early 2000s, the estate was purchased by prominent racehorse owner Erik Penser, who recognised its potential and invested in building the purpose-built Churn Stables. The new yard became home to Gerard Butler's successful training operation from 1999 until 2008, before his move to Newmarket and later the USA. In 2012, the estate was acquired by Dyson Farming, ensuring its future as a centre for equine excellence.
ABOUT
NOEL WILLIAMS: HORSEMAN, TRAINER, AND NATURAL COMMUNICATOR
Noel Williams brings a wealth of hands-on experience, horsemanship, and personal charm to Churn Stables. Born in Oxfordshire and raised on the Somerset/Dorset/Wiltshire borders, Noel had no formal equestrian heritage—just a natural affinity for horses and a determination to learn. He began riding ponies at a young age, progressing through Pony Club and eventually competing in show jumping, dressage, and eventing at a high level.
A gifted sportsman with the talent to pursue rugby professionally, Noel ultimately chose to follow his passion for horses. He trained and competed in Advanced level Three-Day Eventing and proudly represented Great Britain at Young Rider level dressage. But his true calling lay in producing and developing young horses—a skill that would later define his training career.
Noel’s love for National Hunt racing began early, often skipping school on Thursdays to attend Wincanton Racecourse. In 2001, seeking to deepen his experience, he began riding out for trainer Alan King. What started as a part-time role quickly became a full-time commitment, and soon Noel was appointed Assistant Trainer—a position he held for ten successful years.
In 2013, Noel took out his own training licence and has since built a reputation for his thoughtful, hands-on approach. From bumper horses to staying chasers, he has a proven ability to bring the best out of each horse. Particularly skilled with fillies and mares, Noel is known not just for results at Graded and Listed level, but for the trust he builds with owners and syndicates alike. His personable, down-to-earth character makes him a popular choice for those looking to be closely involved in the journey of their horses.
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