It’s not long before the 174th Grand National will take place at Aintree Racecourse. Running over three days in early April, the event will see thousands of racegoers descend the iconic racecourse to witness another historic event. If you’re interested in attending yourself or want to know more about the race, this is the page you need. We’ll run through everything you need to know, including ticket availability, where in Liverpool you should stay, finding the odds for betting on it, the early favourites, and more.
When Will the 2022 Grand National Take Place?
First of all, though most people know the Grand National by its flagship race, it’s actually a festival that takes place over three days. This year, the festival will take place from April 7 – 9 at, as always, Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool.
The three days are divided into the following events:
- Thursday, April 7: Liverpool NHS Day
- Friday, April 8: Ladies’ Day
- Saturday, April 9: The Grand National.
All the days can be worthwhile attending, but the one that’s right for you will depend on what you’re looking for. Thursday tends to be for horse racing aficionados; it’s more about the horse racing than anything else. Ladies’ Day is the most social of the three, so if you’re looking to have a good time with friends and you are only slightly about the racing, then that could be a good day to visit. The main day, Saturday, will appeal to everyone. It’s very social and features The World’s Greatest Steeplechase. If you’re visiting in the hope of witnessing history, then that’s the day you should attend.
The Ticket Options
Aintree Racecourse is a modern, world-class venue that offers outstanding facilities and many different ticketing options. If you’re happy to be in the general crowd, then a tattersall ticket is what you’re looking for.
If you want your trip to be a little more special — and exclusive — then you can choose from one of the many hospitality stand tickets. Depending on your ticket type, you may have access to an exclusive bar, a great view of the race, and other benefits. It’s best to take a look at the official Aintree Racecourse website to see what each stand offers, so you can get the tickets that are right for you.
Where to Stay
Aintree Racecourse is located in Aintree, Liverpool. Though there are hotels to stay within walking distance of the racecourse, it’s usually best to book a hotel in the city centre of Liverpool. Getting to the venue from the centre is easy enough via train or taxi. And by staying in the centre, you’ll ensure that you’re able to enjoy the post-race evening in Liverpool, which is one of the UK’s most happening cities.
How to Get There
Though it’s possible to drive to Liverpool, finding a car park in the centre can be a challenge. For that reason, it’s usually best to get the train into Liverpool Lime Street. The train station is well-served by virtually everything within the British Isles. Another option would be to drive near to Liverpool, park your car, and then continue your journey to the centre via public transport.
If you’re coming from overseas, then you should fly to Liverpool John Lennon Airport or Manchester International Airport. The journey from Liverpool airport to the centre takes around 20 minutes. There are frequent trains from Manchester Airport into Liverpool Lime Street, the city’s main station, with journeys taking around 50 minutes.
Race Day Tips
You’ll surely have plenty of fun during your trip to Aintree Racecourse. But if it’s your first time attending the races, there are a few tips you should take on board to ensure that you can enjoy your day to the fullest.
Dress Up
How often do you get the chance to dress to the nines? Usually only weddings! As a bona fide social extravaganza, the Grand National has earned a reputation for being one of the best-dressed events of the year. If you’re a lady, a cocktail dress, high heels, and a big hat (the bolder, the better) will be appropriate. If you’re a gent, then a sharp suit and well-polished clothes will have you ready for the day.
Big Breakfast
A day at the races can be long, so it’s important that you have enough energy to last you throughout the day. While you can get food at the festival, you should begin the day by having a big breakfast at one of the city’s many excellent breakfast spots. As well as ensuring that you’re well-fed before the races, this will also provide the perfect opportunity to have a morning cocktail.
Get There Early
The Grand National may be the main event, but it’s far from the only event. People usually arrive around 11 am. There’ll be races taking place all day, so don’t worry, you won’t get bored throughout the day.
Who to Back
Who to back? That’s the million-dollar question. If you know something about horse racing, then it’ll be all about looking at the horses, their form, and the surface conditions and picking a winner. Don’t worry if you’re not an expert, however. There’ll be plenty of tips you can read before the event, and then you’ll just need to make an informed decision to back a winner. You can use a free bet offer if you’d rather not use your own money, too.
Meeting Points
This is a big festival that tens of thousands of people attend. If you’re visiting with a big group, set a meeting point where you can reconnect if anyone gets lost.
Leaving the Festival
The train to go back to Liverpool can be extremely busy, and you may have to wait before you have a chance to board. A secret tip? Board the train going in the opposite direction of the centre, alight at the first stop, then get on the empty train going back to Liverpool.
And our final piece of advice? Prepare to have plenty of fun!
“Creator. Troublemaker. Hardcore alcohol lover. Web evangelist. Extreme pop culture practitioner. Devoted zombie scholar. Avid introvert.”