Karl Burke


Leyburn, Yorkshire

Set in the heart of Yorkshire near Middleham, Spigot Lodge has proved a successful training establishment for Karl Burke since its inception in 2000.

Burke took out his license in 1991 and is no stranger to success at the highest level, with 16 G1 victories to his name. Burke’s years of training are invaluable, and he continues to break his own training records year on year. In his last four seasons alone, he has produced over 100 winners, ending 2024 with a record-breaking £4 million in prize money, his best season to date.

Many a stable star has been produced from Burke’s training establishment, most notably Laurens, who he trained to an incredible 6 G1 victories, including The Prix De Diane in Chantilly. Libertarian also provided Burke with a historic victory in the Dante at York in 2013, the first Yorkshire-trained winner in over 70 years. Since his first Royal Ascot victory with Quiet Reflection in 2016, Karl has not looked back becoming the first trainer in over twenty years to win the Queen Mary (Group 2) and Norfolk Stakes (Group 2) when Leovanni and Shareholder both stormed home to win at the 2024 Royal meeting.

Karl and Highclere have already enjoyed great success with the likes of the multiple-group winning Spycatcher, who once again enjoyed a fine season in winning the Prix de Meautry (Group 3).

Spigot Lodge visits are always hugely enjoyed, with an array of delicious Yorkshire dining establishments to frequent for suppers ahead of the morning visits. We are delighted to continuing our association with Karl and the brilliant team at Spigot Lodge