Aintree Racecourse is a jump racecourse, which – in the UK and Ireland – is known as National Hunt racing. The races are not only a test of speed, but also stamina and strength due to the obstacles over which the horses must jump; these can either be hurdles in a hurdle race or a variety of larger jumps in a steeplechase race. Different races at the meeting are of varying lengths, with varying sizes and quantities of jumps, and have different numbers of runners and riders entered. Aintree has 3 courses including the Grand National course which is renowned for its particularly difficult jumps.
The feature race of the festival is the Grand National itself where up to 40 horses run a distance of 4 miles and 2½ furlongs (6.907 km) jumping 30 fences over 2 laps. With the prize fund pushing up to the £1 million mark and around 600 million people watching from over 140 countries, the Grand National is possibly the most famous race in the world.
The Jockey Club has loosened its dress code requirements and suggests guidance to come "dressed to feel your best". It is advised that you dress for the weather. Please keep in mind the following:
The Friday is known as Ladies Day and is one of the most popular of the UK racing calendar. Dress to impress and enter yourself into the Style Awards for the opportunity to win some incredible prizes.
Whether you're looking for a stylish hip flask, a cute teddy bear, some binoculars to enhance your racing experience, or an item of memorabilia, you can find a range of equine-themed items at The Jockey Club shop. Koobit may receive a commission from the supplier if you make a purchase, at no cost to you.
Aintree has a wide range of food and drink concessions on offer in all enclosures, including the Princess Royal Food Court and many fantastic bars and restaurants.
Food and drink cannot be brought onto the racecourse and will be confiscated by security staff upon arrival.
Please use either the West Tip Entrance or Grand National Avenue Entrance dependent on your ticket.
Customers are being advised not to bring a bag larger than a small handbag (30 cm x 10 cm x 20 cm) with them or they will have to leave it in a bag drop zone. Please be advised, there will be bag searches at entry gates at all racedays.
Toilet facilities are located throughout the racecourse in all enclosures.