Trips to grand national : Learn where to go, where to stay, where to buy tickets, and the most rewarding activities to do in Liverpool during the iconic UK horse racing event.
Introduction
The Grand National is one of the most exciting sporting events where horse racing fans across the world are attracted to Liverpool every April. The Aintree Racecourse is not only a race but it is a tradition, excitement, and the best of the British tradition and culture in a weekend.
When you are planning your visit to the grand national 2025, you need to read this entire guide because this will include all the details of the trip you need to know such as how to travel and the type of ticket you buy and the attractions close to the event and the tips you should know when visiting the event the first time.
What is the Grand National?
One of the most difficult but prestigious horse races in the world is the Grand National, an event that is conducted at the Aintree Racecourse, which is located near Liverpool, England, every year during the year. Founded in 1839, the event welcomes over 150,000 fans and millions of Television viewers all over the world.
The race is 4 miles and 2½ furlongs that is comprised of 30 fences that challenge the stamina of both the horse and the jockey. It is known to be a highly unpredictable event and electrical ceremony, therefore, a must-visit one among the horse racing fans and tourists.
When is the Grand National 2025?
In 2025, the Grand National Festival will be held in a three-day experience, which will be held as a rule, between Thursday, April 3 and Saturday, April 5, 2025.
- Day 1- Opening Day: The best racing and the easy thrill.
- Day 2 – Ladies Day: Fashion and race all in one day – glamorous clothes and colorful audiences.
- Day 3- Grand National Day: It is the main event day and the steeplechase, which is known around the world, runs.
Directions to Aintree Racecourse.
- By Train
Grand National can be best accessed by train. The Aintree Station is right on the other side of the entrance to the race course, and the Liverpool Central Station offers frequent services (about 15 minutes).
John Lennon Airport and Manchester Airport also provide a convenient route to Liverpool by train or coach to international visitors.
- By Car
Getting to Aintree is also easy, it is located right off motorways M57 and M58 which join M6. Despite this, there is not much parking space on the race week hence it is advisable to book early.
- By Bus or Coach
There are various coach companies that have packages of travel in the Grand National including the transport, tickets and accommodation. There are also regular local buses that serve the routes between Liverpool city centre and Aintree.
Hotels to stay at the Grand National.
Accommodation gets booked very fast, and hence it is better to book in advance. The choices include luxury hotels to low-cost accommodation.
Best Hotels in the surroundings of Aintree Racecourse.
- The Titanic Hotel Liverpool- 4-star luxury and river view and spa.
- The Resident Liverpool – Boutique and right in the middle, perfect in sightseeing.
- Premier Inn Aintree- Ideal when one wants to be close to the racecourse.
When you are going with a group, you can use Airbnb apartments or Liverpool city centre hotels, which are conveniently located when it comes to night life and dining.
Hospitality Packages and Tickets.
Grand National tickets are different depending on what experience you desire:
- General Admission
It is ideal to first-timers who intend to have the fun of the city without straining the budget. Prices typically start from £35–£50.
- Reserved Seating
Get a good perspective of the track and have the luxury of covered stands. These tickets would normally range between 70-120 pounds.
- Hospitality Packages
To experience the best, buy a hospitality package Grand National, which comes with:
- Gourmet dining
- Private bars
- Premier trackside seating.
- VIP parking
Packages begin at as low as £250 per person and provide the best day out experience of the Grand National.
How to Dress to the Grand National.
The Grand National is more of a fashion than a racing event – particularly on Ladies Day.
- Men: Choose intelligent suits, ties, and worn-out shoes.
- Women: Ladies Day fashion stipulates dresses, hats and fascinators.
On the one hand, it can be a rainy season in Liverpool in April, and a coat or an umbrella will always come in handy.
The Best Activities in Liverpool at the Grand National Weekend.
When out of Aintree, there are numerous attractions in Liverpool.
- Explore the Albert Dock
A UNESCO world heritage zone with museums, restaurants and a sight of the river Mersey.
- Visit The Beatles Story
Explore an interactive display of the most renowned band in Liverpool, which has memorabilia.
- Enjoy Liverpool’s Nightlife
The city is vibrant with rooftop bars, live music bars, among others, throughout the week of the Grand National.
- Take a Mersey Ferry Cruise
It is a calming experience to view the skyline of Liverpool and have some air before the race.
Grand National Trip tips.
- Booking early: The tickets, hotels, and the available trains get sold quickly.
- Transport: It is best just to use trains, do not drive.
- Smart dressing: Build up on dress code on your enclosure.
- Check the weather: Packing in the unpredictable UK spring climate.
- Bet naturally: Little bets may also make the race even more interesting.
why the trips to Grand National is worth the trip?
The visit to the Grand National is the experience of the lifetime which is mixed with history, glamour, and sporting drama. You are either a racing fan or a regular traveler, the electric ambience in the Aintree Racecourse on race weekend is an experience of its own.
Whether you were rooting your horse or checking out the rich Liverpool culture, your Grand National vacation will be an adventure that is full of adventure, fun and even a winning ticket!
FAQs
Q1: At what time and at which point ought I to book my trip to the Grand National?
You better line up the tickets, hotels and train travel at least six months prior, the demand is very high during the week of the race.
Q2: It me It is possible to bring children to the Grand National?
Kids are welcome, however, the event would be more appealing to adults. Children below 17s are to be accompanied by an adult.
Q3: What are you bringing to the race day?
Come with your ticket, photo ID, your cash/card, your umbrella, and your well-dressed shoes. Large bags are not allowed, and the security checks are high.
Q4: Is the food and drink available at Aintree?
Surely there are lots of food stalls, bars, restaurants with snacks up to fine food.
Q5: Which is the most appropriate enclosure to first time visitors?
The Festival Zone provides an excellent combination of entertainment, food, and viewing points, which would be perfect among newcomers.
Conclusion
Regardless of whether it is within the UK or across the globe, a trip to the Grand National is an amazing and unforgettable combination of racing in the world and the British culture. Early planning, smart packing and be prepared to attend one of the most iconic sporting events in the world.
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