Witness History in the Making at Aintree Racecourse
One of the most famous racecourses in horse racing, highlighted by not just its heritage but being home to the Grand National; -arguably – The Greatest (Some Racing Fans would argue it is) Steeplechase on this planet. Aintree, located on the outskirts of Liverpool — and comfortably nestled in to the racing fanatics’ consciousness up-and-down that nation across Europe and beyond. As the look of Aintree behind schedule grows all over again sharply, it is a magnet for racing followers and aficionados searching to thrill within the spectacle. The thrill of the race, the tradition, and sense of community come together with an unforgettable atmosphere that ensures every raceday here at Aintree creates moments to remember.
Aintree Racecourse, Grand National
The Grand National is an established part of British sporting culture, and Aintree Racecourse itself has come to be synonymous with the event. Situated in the suburbs of Liverpool, this timeless race course dates back to over 200 years ago. Its most popular meeting, the Grand National is one of its kind bringing top class jockeys & trainers and horses from all over the globe to compete in this grueling event which is known as the world’s toughest horse race.
The Grand National is not merely a race, it’s an occasion that has gripped the public for over two centuries. The course boasts numerous notorious obstacles — among them Becher’s Brook, The Chair and the Canal Turn — making it a test of stamina for horse and rider. Hundreds of thousands watch at Aintree and millions more around the world tune in to see all the drama, triumphs and heartbreaks that come with such a grueling spectacle each year.
The proximity of Aintree to Liverpool has also played its part in ensuring the fixture remains so popular, as a cultural hub with rich heritage belies an area ideally set for having the Grand National epitomize in all its grandeur. In the UK’s sporting pantheon Aintree has been a place of honor for more than 180 years and continues to hold an exalted status today. Aintree is a racecourse steeped in history and tradition — from the famous Grand National Course to ancient buildings constructed on site.
The Grand National: Aintree’s Crown Jewel
The Grand National is certainly Aintree’s crowning glory — a race that finds its way into the history books by virtue of an extra kicking combination of thrills and spills, which no one can predict. The Great Grand National, which was first run in 1839 has produced a whole host of remarkable moments and legendary winners who have gone on to be immortalized throughout the ages as household names. Winning riders and horses at Aintree are forever immortalized in racing folklore from Red Rum, a three-time winner of the main race or Lester Piggott (in 1965) and Tony McCoy benefiting just as notable.
Certainly the scale and intricacy of the course is one of Grand National’s most fascinating elements. There are 30 fences over four miles and there really isn’t going to be any surprises that the Grand National, for many people, presents itself as steeplechasing’s ultimate test of a horse’s stamina and also the skill of a jockey in maneuvering him safely around. The Chair and Becher’s Brook with its flee-fence principle, deceptive drop on the landing side stand this course apart from any other. These problems have helped to fuel the theater which has developed down Aintree way over time, and moments that go beyond racing itself into mainstream folklore.
The Grand National Meeting, which takes place over three days each April is a celebration of racing. The excitement builds from the moment that gates open on opening day to the crescendo of Grand National Day itself and each race provides a unique spectacle. It is not just the Grand National that makes up an exciting three days of racing, however, with quality race after quality race to ensure every guest goes home happy. The spectacle of Aintree during the Grand National Meeting itself creates a buzz like no other, with thousands traveling from far and wide all over the UK to ensure they witness history being written.
Exploring Aintree Racecourse
Aintree Racecourse is not just about the Grand National, it is a racecourse that appeals to all -whether seasoned racing fans or once-a-year visitors. The track is famous for its breathtaking set-up that includes many of the iconic features in horse racing. The Canal Turn and Becher’s Brook are some of the most iconic fences that have staged famous incidents where races can be won or lost in a heartbeat. Those fences, combined with the course’s big sweeping turns make for some of those kinds of sights that can be seen from much closer to an action that you might expect.
For those coming in person, Aintree offers a variety of hospitality packages and viewing options including intimate enclosures to grandstands providing a full view over the entire racecourse. The Earl of Derby and Princess Royal, which are two of the most coveted hospitality suites at Epsom, allow racegoers to experience a proper day at the races while receiving some top-class grub. The Winners Enclosure and Parade Ring are the heart of it all, as patrons crowd around to celebrate successful horses crossing back in glory.
Another significant part of the racecourse itself is The Aintree Pavilion which provides a modern twist on an old favourite. The state-of-the-art facility holds key events throughout the Grand National Meeting, providing racegoers with a fantastic place to unwind and enjoy their day at Aintree. The Aintree Pavilion — essential to the raceday atmosphere, from a pre-race drink with friends through to post-race celebrations.
Races at Aintree, Beyond the Grand National
The Grand National may be the best-known event held at Aintree, however it is just one of a series of top-class races staged there during each year. There is an exciting schedule of National Hunt and flat racing meetings in the autumn and winter seasons. Everything from the October meeting to its big Saturday racing events, Aintree does not shut up shop once their Grand National Meeting has gone by.
Racing fans will be kept entertained all year round at Aintree, with the variety of races taking place meaning that there is always a race happening soon. With sprint races alongside the more challenging steeplechases, Aintree caters for every fan of the sport. Enjoy prime views of all the action from the iconic Grandstands overseeing an entire track crossing point.
As well as the usual horse racing, Aintree Racecourse has also held a number of non-racing events such as concerts, car boot sales and weddings. Its adaptability, coupled with its cultural pedigree makes it an attractive choice for a variety of events and helps to ensure that you consider this ancient venue one of the foremost racecourse venues in Britain.
Positioned in the middle of the UK, with two motorways on its doorstep for visitors traveling from Liverpool and beyond making it an attractive destination. With the racecourse located just a few minutes walk away from Aintree Station, those arriving by train are able to connect with ease — and Ormskirk Road provides newlyweds making a beeline for speedy access when it comes to driving. With such easier access, as well some fabulous facilities why would you not want a day at the mighty Aintree!
Aintree continues to host an array of races and events throughout the year, further adding to its world-class status. Experienced racing or 1st-time Aintree Racecourse visitor, an unforgettable experience takes in history, excitement and world-class racing.
Plan Your Visit to Aintree
A trip to Aintree Racecourse is one of the most anticipated events when it comes to horse racing experiences for a reason and if Liverpool was not famed enough already, this place obviously lends an even more iconic touch. Planning is the key to getting the most out of your day whether you are attending The Grand National or one of Aintree’s other thrilling race days. Read on for a full run-down of how to get there, where to stay and nab your tickets in order for you to have an unforgettable day at Aintree.
Getting There
The racecourse is situated on the edge of Liverpool, only a short distance from both the carriageway and local public transport services. The airport, because it had international flights as well now… For people coming internationally, even Indonesia.
If you are traveling by car, there is plenty of parking available at the racecourse so it’s a good idea to book in advance during major events like The Grand National. The racecourse is situated off Ormskirk Road (A59), with more detailed directions on the Aintree website. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time as traffic can get heavy on race days.
Train: The closest rail link is Aintree Station, located a short walk from the racecourse. Regular services run from Liverpool Central so it is easy to get there. Coming from outside of Liverpool, Lime Street Station connects all national services including direct trains London/Manchester and beyond with easy Aintree station connections.
By bus: There are a number of buses from Liverpool city center to Aintree — such as the 300 and 310 services, which makes stops near the racecourse. If you are based locally however, there is a regular bus service to the racecourse and facilities on offer in abundance.
Airport Transfers: Should you be arriving from overseas, flights in and out of Liverpool John Lennon Airport take place all over the world – with neighbouring Aintree only a short drive away an airport transfer can also be arranged easily. Manchester Airport is also a one-hour drive away with transport links that can take you to Aintree.
Accommodation
Aintree Racecourse is near a range of accommodation options for all budgets. Liverpool provides a number of luxury accommodation options for visitors who want to stay in style – both The Titanic Hotel and Hope Street Hotel offer an up-market place to rest your head with proximity links Aintree. There are also well-priced midrange options to be had, with an abundance of Premier Inns and Travelodges providing clean and comfortable beds at fair prices for budget-conscious travelers. Similarly, several bed and breakfast or smaller guest houses nearer the racecourse around Ormskirk Road are an excellent choice for guests to stay closer into the action yet who prefer a more homely environment.
Tickets and Packages
A day out at Aintree Racecourse can be made to your own taste, with a variety of ticket offers and hospitality packages available. General admission tickets grant you entry to the racecourse, with a number of enclosures in which you can catch that all important raceday atmosphere as races hurtle past. For something a little more special, why not consider one of the hospitality packages where you can enjoy an unrivaled dining experience sitting in reserved seating and then finish your visit by taking advantage of these stunning enclosures such as Aintree Pavilion or Earl Of Derby Stand. You can book your tickets directly through the Aintree website, note you should try and do this well in advance especially for major events like The Grand National Meeting as these events sell out.
Making the Most of Your Aintree Experience
There are, however, a number of tips you should aim to follow if possible so hopefully your day at the races will be as enjoyable and trouble-free (or close to it) as can possibly be. Preparation is key when it comes to a day at the races, from what you wear to all your raceday essentials.
Dress Code
Aintree (Graham Chadwick) While smart wear is encouraged throughout the racecourse, the dress code changes according to where you will spend your day. For anyone in the hospitality areas, such as the Earl of Derby and Lord Sefton Stands there is a strict dress code too with gentlemen asked to wear suits and ties, while it is usually dressed for ladies together with hats or fascinators. The more general sections require less, but there is still an encouragement for smart casual. Even though jeans are prohibited there, dressing up is part of the fun at the Grand National Meeting. ·
What to Bring
Some Essentials Needed for a Day at Aintree To make sure that you have an enjoyable and comfortable day, here are some essentials. The British weather can be temperamental, and although the forecast will show sunshine there is no harm in packing a light raincoat or umbrella. Wear comfortable shoes, you’ll be doing a lot of walking as you wander from enclosure to enclosure. Bring your tickets and even consider a portable phone charger to snap pics of all the excitement without having to fear running out of battery.
Food and Drink
Aintree has a number of food outlet options to cater for all tastes and budgets. With gourmet dining in the hospitality areas and a range of food stalls along with bars throughout the course, there really is something for everyone. There are also a number of fine dining restaurants at Aintree for those looking to enjoy an all-day experience over several courses and with excellent views overlooking the racecourse. If you are more in the mood for fast food, there is no shortage of burgers and steaks — as well as McDonalds. Plenty of bars are located around the venue, including circular ones in which order from your seat and have Champagne or premium spirits delivered straight to places.
Aintree Racecourse: More Than Just Racing
Aintree might be synonymous with top-class racing spectaculars but there is so much more to the racecourse than just great sport. The venue boasts a range of unique facilities for conferences, weddings and other special events beyond just the three sports hosts — ensuring that it is a year-round site visit unlike most in this sector.
Conference and Events
The racecourse also has excellent facilities, which attract conferences and exhibitions when not being used for racing. With numerous event spaces, from the small rooms to full size halls that can take hundreds of guests comfortably, Aintree is a great choice for business seeking venues both unique and distinguished. When it comes to business conferences, large gala dinners or even product launches the racecourse events team are well versed and make sure everything goes off without a hitch.
Golf Course
Aintree is home to a bespoke 9-hole golf course that has been designed in the surroundings of the world famous Grand National race track. Video of the Week This tough but fun course gives golfers a chance to play on one of UK Sport’s most famous venues, with views across much more terrain than surrounding all racetracks. It’s the ideal way to unwind in style pre- or post-race day, and you get bragging rights to say that you’ve played left handed on this venerated turf.
Visitor Center
Fans of Aintree’s tradition and history should definitely visit the Visitor Center where they can access all manner of content about the racecourse’s past. Recounting the history of racing from its early days to present day Grand National, a plethora of artifacts, memorabilia and exhibits in The Visitor Centre demonstrate the rich heritage that embodies Aintree as we know it. Guided tours of the course are available too, offering a sneak behind-the-scenes glimpse into places such as The Parade Ring and Winners Enclosure so that visitors can understand just what makes Aintree unique.