The Randox Grand National 2026 returns to Aintree Racecourse
The Randox Grand National 2026 at Aintree Racecourse promises three incredible days of top-class racing, style, and atmosphere. From Opening Day on Thursday 9 April to Ladies Day on Friday 10 April, and the main event on Saturday 11 April 2026, racegoers can look forward to thrilling action and unforgettable moments.
From the thrill of the fences to the style in the stands, the 2026 Grand National Festival promises three days of drama, tradition, and spectacle. Explore the full race schedule, timings, and ticket information below — and plan your visit to Aintree, the home of the Grand National.
OPENING DAY – THURSDAY 9 APRIL 2026
Gates open: 11am
The festival begins with a thrilling card that sets the tone for the weekend. Expect top-level jump racing and the first chance to soak up the electric Aintree atmosphere.
| START TIMES | RACE | DISTANCE | TELEVISED |
| 1.45pm | THE EBC GROUP MANIFESTO NOVICES’ STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (GRADE 1) | 2m 4f | ITV |
| 2.20pm | THE BOODLES ANNIVERSARY 4-Y-O JUVENILE HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (GRADE 1) | 2m 1f | ITV |
| 2.55pm | THE BROOKLANDS GOLDEN MILLER CHRONOGRAPH BOWL STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (GRADE 1) (GBB RACE) | 3m 1f | ITV |
| 3.30pm | THE WILLIAM HILL AINTREE HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (GRADE 1) (GBB RACE) | 2m 4f | ITV |
| 4.05pm | THE RANDOX FOXHUNTERS’ OPEN HUNTERS’ STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) | 2m 5f | ITV |
| 4.40pm | THE CLOSE BROTHERS RED RUM HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (PREMIER HANDICAP) | 2m | ITV |
| 5.15pm | THE GOFFS NICKEL COIN MARES’ STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 1) (GRADE 2) | 2m 1f | ITV |
LADIES DAY – FRIDAY 10 APRIL 2026
Gates open: 10:30am
Known for glamour, competition, and excitement on and off the track, Ladies Day is where racing meets fashion. Expect style awards, headline races, and a vibrant social scene that’s unique to Aintree.
| START TIMES | RACE | DISTANCE | TELEVISED |
| 1.45pm | THE HUYTON ASPHALT FRANNY BLENNERHASSETT MEMORIAL MILDMAY NOVICES’ STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (GRADE 1) | 3m 1f | ITV |
| 2.20pm | THE WILLIAM HILL HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (PREMIER HANDICAP) | 2m 4f | ITV |
| 2.55pm | THE TRUSTATRADER TOP NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (GRADE 1) | 2m 1/2f | ITV |
| 3.30pm | THE MELLING STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (GRADE 1) | 2m 4f | ITV |
| 4.05pm | THE RANDOX SUPPORTING PROSTATE CANCER UK TOPHAM HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (PREMIER HANDICAP) | 2m 5f | ITV |
| 4.40pm | THE ODDSCHECKER SEFTON NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (GRADE 1) | 3m 1/2F | ITV |
| 5.15pm | THE HALLGARTEN AND NOVUM WINES HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 2) (CONDITIONAL JOCKEYS’ AND AMATEUR RIDERS’ RACE) | 2m 1/2f | ITV |
RANDOX GRAND NATIONAL DAY – SATURDAY 11 APRIL 2026
Gates open: 10am
The world watches as history is made. The Grand National, the most famous steeplechase on the planet, takes centre stage. With millions tuning in worldwide, nothing compares to experiencing the roar of the crowd as the runners line up for the start.
| START TIMES | RACE | DISTANCE | TELEVISED |
| 1.20pm | THE WILLIAM HILL TOP PRICE GUARENTEE HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (PREMIER HANDICAP) | 3m 1/2f | ITV |
| 1.55pm | THE TURNERS MERSEY NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (GRADE 1) | 2m 4f | ITV |
| 2.30pm | THE WILLIAM HILL HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (REGISTERED AS THE FREEBOOTER HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE) (PREMIER HANDICAP) | 3m 1f | ITV |
| 3.05pm | THE IVY LIVERPOOL HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (GRADE 1) | 3m 1/2f | ITV |
| 4.00pm | THE RANDOX GRAND NATIONAL HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (PREMIER HANDICAP) | 4m 2 1/2f | ITV |
| 5.00pm | THE ROSCONN GROUP MAGHULL NOVICES’ STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (GRADE 1) | 2m | |
| 5.35pm | THE WEATHERBYS NHSTALLIONS.CO.UK STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 1) (GRADE 2) | 2m 1 |
More from Aintree
Gamble Responsibly
Gambling should be entertaining and not seen as a way to make money. Never bet more than you can afford to lose. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help and support is available.