The Randox 2025 Grand National – Aintree Racecourse: 3rd – 5th April

Events

The world’s greatest steeplechase is back for another year at Aintree Racecourse – that’s right, it’s the Grand National.

Taking place on the 5th of April, scousers have the good fortune of being just a short drive from the famous course, and anyone who wants to be there in the flesh can get a variety of tickets for the big day.

The Grand National is more than just a race, it’s an event of grand proportions where sport and entertainment mix to bring you a day full of thrills, laughs, and memorable moments.

The Grand National itself is only one race on the last day of a 3 day festival, running from April 3rd to April 5th.

There is a full card of racing on each day :

Day 1 – Opening Day – Gates open at 11 am, First race at 1:45 pm, last race at 5.15 pm
Day 2 – Ladies Day – Gates open at 10.30 am, First race at 1:45 pm, last race at 5.15 pm
Day 3 – Grand National Day – Gates open at 10 am, First race at 1:20 pm, last race at 5.35 pm

There is a range of entertainment throughout each day, with some highlights including Kimberley Wyatt, Craig Charles, DJ Fat Tony, local lad done well, Brad Kella on the piano, the Style Awards on Ladies Day, and Hits Radio broadcasting live from the racecourse.

This is just a snapshot though, there will be all sorts going on with an incredible atmosphere. It’s not called a festival for nothing.

Tickets and Prices

Since this is one of the biggest events on the horse racing calendar, and arguably of any calendar in the country each year, ticket can get sickeningly expensive.

Luckily though, there are lots of cheap and cheerful options too – racing really is a sport for everyone.

I won’t list every single ticket option available because there are literally 26 different price tiers, plus two car parking ticket options. Some of these are access only and some are a complete experience, so I will just give you an idea.

At the cheaper end, you can get into the festival zone for as little as £31.50 by booking in advance (£45 on the day). The festival zone is great fun, including live music and entertainment, lots of food and drink options, the ability to see the horses in the parade ring, and of course you can watch the race itself too.

At the opposite end of the spectrum is The Art School at Aintree. Celebrity chef, Paul Askew, has recreated his popular restaurant and if you have a spare £765 you can go and enjoy it before watching to race.

Realistically, most people will be spending between £30 and £100 for their tickets, and some of these are pretty swanky packages.

Kids are allowed but they will have to pay full price (and they obviously won’t be able to bet), and parking must be booked and paid for in advance.

You can also book a tour where you get to walk the course before the racing begins if that takes your fancy.