About us
A legacy of thoroughbred breeding
Norman Court Stud is a private thoroughbred breeding operation located near Romsey in Hampshire. With a reputation for care, quality, and consistency, the stud has produced a number of successful racehorses and continues to invest in strong bloodlines and proven stallions.
Our heritage
The story of Norman Court Stud stretches back over a century. The estate was purchased by racing enthusiast and philanthropist Washington Singer in 1906, and by 1907 he had moved his existing stud operation from Paignton in Devon to Norman Court. New stables and paddocks were built across 106 acres, forming the foundation of the stud as it stands today.
Over the decades, Norman Court Stud developed a reputation for producing classic and stakes-level horses. Singer’s dedication to quality bloodstock saw him breed some of the most talked-about racehorses of the early 20th century.
Rooted in tradition. Focused on the future.
Notable early successes included:
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Lucky Tor – winner of the City & Suburban and Kempton Park Jubilee Stakes (1930)
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Saddle Tor – Leicestershire Oaks winner (1936)
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Orwell – unbeaten 2-year-old and winner of the 2000 Guineas (1932), once described as “the greatest juvenile since Ormonde”
More recently, Norman Court Stud celebrated another high-profile triumph when Miss Information secured victory in the Kensington Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot 2025, ridden confidently by Oisin Murphy and trained by Andrew Balding.
The stud passed through several hands over the year until ownership transferred to Peter Taplin, who has since expanded operations with his son Simon adding stallions, and restoring Norman Court’s position as a respected name in British breeding.
Meet the team
Peter Taplin
Owner
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A lifelong farmer with a deep passion for racing, Peter Taplin co-owns Norman Court Stud alongside his son Simon.
Since taking over in 2019, he has helped restore the stud’s reputation for quality breeding, combining traditional values with long-term investment in bloodstock.
Simon Taplin
Co-Owner
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Simon works closely with his father to guide the stud’s strategy, sales prep, and yearling purchases.
His practical farming background and instinct for bloodlines have already produced winning results, including Juniper Berries and Miss Information.
Keith Evans
Stud Manager
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With decades of experience, Keith oversees daily stud operations and stallion nominations.
His knowledge and care ensure mares, foals, and stallions thrive.
He was instrumental in securing Rumble Inthejungle for the stud.
Janet Evans
Stud Groom & Secretary
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Janet supports both office and hands-on work across the stud, from admin to foaling coordination.
With over 43 years of experience in the breeding world, her calm oversight and deep knowledge ensure smooth daily operations, especially during the busiest foaling and covering seasons.
Working alongside her husband Keith and their son Michael, Janet plays a central role in the continuity and care that define Norman Court’s trusted management team.
Michael
Pedigree Analyst & Breeding Support
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Known affectionately as “The Oracle”, Michael Evans plays a key role in yearling selection and pedigree planning at Norman Court Stud.
His instinctive eye for bloodlines has helped guide successful purchases like Mister Sketch and Miss Show Off.
Working closely with his parents, Keith and Janet, Michael is an integral part of the stud’s hands-on, team-led approach to producing high-quality racehorses.
Marie
Breeding Assistant
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Marie joined Norman Court Stud in 2024, bringing over 20 years of hands-on experience with warmbloods and a deep understanding of equine behaviour, care, and performance.
With a background in riding and sport horse breeding, she’s especially passionate about early handling, bloodlines, and conformation.
Her lifelong interest in racing and natural eye for detail make her a valuable part of the stud’s breeding and development team.
Izzy
Equine Welfare & Behaviour Advisor
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With a BSc in Equine Science and MSc in Equine Behaviour, [Name] brings a research-led approach to daily work at the stud.
Her background includes hands-on experience and two academic studies on equine behaviour—one of which led to a meeting with HRH Princess Anne.
She’s passionate about blending science and real-world care to keep horse welfare at the heart of everything.
Luke Hepburn
Stud’s Veterinarian
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Luke is the stud’s daily vet, bringing experience from both Newmarket and New Zealand, where he worked with leading thoroughbred operations.
Trained under some of the UK’s top stud vets, he specialises in breeding, stallion care, and neonatal foal management.
With a calm and thorough approach, Luke plays a key role in maintaining the health and performance of the horses at Norman Court.
Ted
Farrier
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With over 20 years of experience, Ted is a highly skilled farrier with a particular passion for Thoroughbreds. His expert approach to hoof care helps support long-term soundness, comfort, and performance across the stud.
Known for his cheerful personality and quick wit, Ted brings energy and laughter to the yard—often followed by his loyal dogs wherever he goes. His love for animals and calm presence make him a valued part of daily life at Norman Court.