Aintree Racecourse (Aintree, England)

Aintree Racecourse is home to the world famous Grand National steeplechase, first held in 1839 and being the most valuable jump race in Europe.

The racecourse has three Grandstands – The Earl of Derby, The Lord Sefton Stand and the Princess Royal Stand, along with two stands – the Lord Daresbury Stand and the Queen Mother. Names of some of the fences are also renowned including the Chair, Foinavon, Valentine’s, Canal Turn and Becher’s Brook.

Aside from the Grand National steeplechase, there are several other Grade 1 races run over the three day festival in April, with other races held across the year.

Opened: 1829

Capacity: 75,000

Address: Ormskirk Rd, Liverpool L9 5AS

Tickets at Aintree Racecourse

Starting at £30, many of the tickets to the Grand National festival sell out in advance. For further ticket information, click on the official Aintree Racecourse website here.

Location & Travel to Aintree Racecourse

Aintree Racecourse is situated in the village of Aintree, approximately 6 miles to the north of Liverpool city centre.

Airport – Liverpool John Lennon Airport is approximately 18 miles away from Aintree and has connections with many UK and international destinations.

From the airport catch the 80A, 86A or 500 bus to Liverpool South Parkway then take a train to Aintree Station.

Thinking of going to Liverpool? Search & book your flights through Skyscanner here.

Bus – Bus services 300, 310 and 345 run directly to Aintree from Liverpool.

Coach – Megabus offers cheap travel to Liverpool and offers over 10 routes from Birmingham, Cardiff, Glasgow, Leeds, Leicester, London, Manchester, Milton Keynes and Sheffield. You can search and book your tickets here.

Driving/Parking – Parking must be pre-booked for the Grand National festival, whilst it is free for all other meets. Directions for driving:

From South Leave M6 at J21A and join M62 west. Leave M62 at J6 to join M57, follow signs for races.

From North Leave M6 at J26 and join M58, follow signs for races.

From Mersey Tunnels follow signs for Preston, then for A59, then signs for races.

Train – Aintree Station is directly opposite the station, with regular services from Liverpool Central Station (every 15 minutes or less during racedays). Liverpool Lime Street is the closest mainline station, being just a short walk from Central Station.

Thinking of catching a train to Liverpool? Search and book your journey through the Trainline here.