Yes, booking tickets in advance is strongly advised as some enclosures are likely to sell out, so book early to avoid disappointment.
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Thursday 9 April 2026
Kick off The Randox Grand National Festival with a bang on Opening Day, where the quality of racing is unmatched and the atmosphere is electric. Featuring four Grade One races, this is the day where stars are born and new legends emerge. The world is watching as the story begins to unfold – but you could be right there, experiencing every thrilling moment firsthand.
Opening Day Tickets
Hospitality at The Randox Grand National
Enclosures & Stands
Opening Day Memorable Moments
FESTIVAL ZONE AND GRANDSTANDS SOLD OUT FOR LADIES DAY AND GRAND NATIONAL DAY
Ladies Day is now SOLD OUT and Grand National Day has SOLD OUT across all Grandstands and Festival Zone with only The Embankment remaining.
Tickets are selling fast for the Opening Day. If you haven't booked yet, grab your tickets while you still can.
Act now to avoid disappointment—don't miss your chance to be part of the action!
Opening Day sets the tone for the entire festival, a celebration that marks the beginning of an extraordinary journey. This is the day for true racing aficionados, where the sport's finest showcase their talents and compete for glory. The anticipation is palpable as each race brings new twists and turns, unveiling the champions of tomorrow.
But it’s not just about the races – the festival atmosphere is in full swing, with entertainment, food & drink, and music, the perfect backdrop to the sporting action.
Whether you’re a seasoned racing fan or simply looking for a unique and exhilarating day out, Opening Day offers something for everyone.
The Festival Zone is the beating heart of the Randox Grand National Festival. Here there are no dress codes, no reservations and there's definitely no holding back.
You can dance all day in Red Rum Garden, soak up the Ibiza vibes in O Beach, belt out the anthems in Aintree Pavilion and raise a glass in the Rose and Crown Pub.
Opening chapters don’t come bigger.
Hotelplanner Partners with top sporting organisations to ensure their fans find and book the best accommodation close to the venue, always at great rates.
We have sourced great rates at hotels nearby the venue. Book your hotels here
Yes, booking tickets in advance is strongly advised as some enclosures are likely to sell out, so book early to avoid disappointment.
Aintree Racecourse is located on the A59, just one mile from the M57 and M58, which link the M62 and M6. For more info visit our directions page.
Please check the event schedule for the most up to date timings.
We would advise spectators arrive at Aintree Racecourse early to make the most of your day and also to allow for racecourse security procedures.
Please note that these times are subject to change.
Car parking must be booked in advance, you can book online by clicking the day you're attending below:
Car parks will open at 6am each day, however you will not be able to access the racecourse until gates open.
There’s no official dress code at The Grand National. We encourage you to come dressed to feel your best! Aintree is a spectacle of colour for all three days of the festival, with many using their trip as an opportunity to showcase their favourite raceday looks”
See all the frequently asked questions here.
