How to get to the Grand National 2025
If you're planning to attend the Grand National 2025 in Liverpool, getting there is easy and convenient, particularly by train.
The nearest train station to the Grand National is Aintree Station, opposite Aintree Racecourse where the event is held. If you’re coming from further afield, you’ll likely arrive at the more central Liverpool Lime Street first. From Lime Street, a connecting train will have you at Aintree Station in under 40 minutes.
For those travelling by car, the venue is accessible via the M57 from the south and M58 from the north. Be prepared for heavy traffic on race days, especially as you get closer to the venue. You can book parking ahead of time, but as the event is busy it may sell out. You might want to consider parking in a different area of town and making your way in from there.
Whether you live nearby, or have parked further out from the racecourse, the bus is another great option. Take one of the 300, 310 or 345 bus services to get to Aintree Station in no time.
What to do at the Grand National
Attending the Grand National is about much more than just the main race. Over the three-day festival, there are plenty of Grand National events to keep you entertained.
The Grand National Steeplechase is the main highlight. It’s known for its intense and challenging course featuring famous jumps like Becher's Brook, The Chair, and Canal Turn. But alongside that, you’ll find a packed schedule of other races that build up the excitement over the festival.
While at the Grand National races, you'll want to soak up the festive atmosphere. The grandstands and enclosures offer a great variety of experiences. Entertainment like live music and DJ sets are provided to add to the atmosphere. You could also get involved with some Grand National betting if you're feeling lucky. The festival features many on-site bookmakers for you to pick from.
For food and refreshments, Aintree Racecourse has options for every taste. Find it all, from casual snacks and light bites to fine dining experiences. You’ll have no issues keeping yourself fuelled throughout the weekend.
About the Grand National
The Liverpool Grand National is one of the world’s most iconic horse racing events, held annually at Aintree Racecourse. Known for its thrilling atmosphere and challenging course, the Grand National draws crowds from across the globe. The Grand National Festival dates this year are from Thursday 3rd April to Saturday 5th April.
With a history stretching back to 1839, the Grand National is a much-loved institution in the UK’s sporting calendar. The race itself is a handicap steeplechase, which means horses carry different weights to create a more competitive race. This makes it an exciting watch for seasoned fans and newcomers alike.
Over the years, the race has seen memorable moments, from Red Rum's three-time victory to Tiger Roll's back-to-back wins in 2018 and 2019.
The event attracts a broad audience, with racing enthusiasts alongside casual spectators. The Grand National runs over three days and includes Ladies Day, known for its fashion and festive vibe.
Grand National tickets usually go on sale almost a year in advance, so you can get them nice and early. Ticket prices vary depending on where you want to be during the event. Festival Zone tickets start from £31.50, or you can treat yourself to a fine dining ticket in areas like the Princess Royal Restaurant for around £650.
Ways to save on your train ticket to the Grand National 2025
Heading to the Grand National doesn’t have to break the bank. There are lots of simple ways to save on your train ticket to Liverpool.
One of the easiest ways to save on your journey is by booking Advance Tickets. With this ticket type the earlier you book, the more you save. You can even set up a Priority Ticket Alert to make sure you don’t miss out on the best fares.
Another great option, especially if you're travelling with family or friends, is to explore Family or Group Tickets. These fares help keep costs down, and don’t forget that children under five can travel for free.
You can also save by booking directly with Avanti. By using our website or app, you can entirely avoid any booking fees, making it even easier to get a great price on your travel.
Another way to cut costs is by travelling during Off-Peak times. By avoiding the rush hour, you can enjoy cheaper fares while keeping your journey flexible and more relaxed.
Get the app
Make sure your travel plans to the Grand National run smoothly by downloading the Avanti West Coast app. From booking tickets to tracking live train times, the app is your go-to resource for all things Avanti train travel.
It’s the easiest way to keep your trip stress-free, leaving you to enjoy the thrill of the races.
