The 175th Grand National in 2023 is an event you don’t want to miss. Make travelling to this year’s big race a breeze with Avanti West Coast. Our trains make travelling affordable, comfortable and convenient for all of your big events.
Where is the Grand National?
Just like every other year, the 2023 Grand National will be held at Aintree Racecourse on the outskirts of Liverpool. It’s up in the north of the city area, halfway between Kirkby and the seaside town of Crosby.
Here’s how to get to the Grand National by train. If you’re arriving in the city from outside Liverpool on Avanti West Coast, you’ll arrive at Lime Street Station. From there, you can catch an underground train to Central Station, but you’ll have to change there, so if you’re comfortable walking, it’s only a five-minute stroll along Lime Street. Head out of Lime St Station, turn left and walk along Lime Street for 3 minutes, then right onto Ranelagh Street and you can’t miss Central Station. At Central, get on the train on the Northern Line to Aintree.
Note that when you’re coming home from Aintree along the Northern Line, you should change at Moorfields if you’re getting the train all the way to Lime Street, as underground trains only go clockwise on that section (see the map). If you’re walking to Lime Street from the Northern Line, Central Station is closer.
What to do at the Grand National
The Grand National is the most famous steeplechase in the world, with millions of viewers every year worldwide. From Thursday 13 April to Saturday 15 April 2023, three days of events and 21 races will fill your time with high calibre racing. The main event happens on Saturday at 5:15pm, when 40 horses and jockeys go against each other over 30 fences on a 4-mile course.
Fashion is another big part of what makes the Grand National such a big event. While there is no dress code for this event, smart style is the popular choice. Ladies’ hats are also a signifying part of Grand National fashion. Celebrate race day fashion with the Ladies’ Day Style Awards. Ladies’ Day takes place on the Friday.
There is even more entertainment outside of the race, with the Retraining of Racehorse Parade on opening day and live performances by acts such as the Alder Hey Singers and The Lucky 15s. On #FabulousFriday, there is a live DJ set by a local hero, Radio 6 presenter and Red Dwarf star Craig Charles, to celebrate Randox Ladies’ Day.
An array of dining options is also a part of the Grand National experience. Secure a restaurant package before you go and choose from ten places to eat. Experience exceptional dining at the Art School, and try fine dining at the Silver Birch Garden Party or Princess Royal. Many Clouds, Golden Miller, and Papillon Diamond Marque each offer contemporary dining in a refined space. You can also hit the pub at the Grand National and visit the Horse and Groom or McCoy’s.
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