The Grand National

What is the Grand National?

The Grand National is one of the most famous and prestigious horse races in the world. Held annually at Aintree Racecourse near Liverpool, England, it is a highlight of the British sporting calendar. The race is known for its challenging course, which includes 30 fences over a distance of about 4 miles and 514 yards. The Grand National attracts a global audience and a diverse crowd of attendees, ranging from seasoned racing enthusiasts to casual spectators.

Where is it held?

The Grand National takes place at Aintree Racecourse, located approximately 6 miles northwest of Liverpool city center. The racecourse is easily accessible from the city, making it a popular destination for both locals and international visitors.

History of the Grand National

First run in 1839, the Grand National has a rich history steeped in tradition. The race was founded by William Lynn, a hotelier who recognized the potential of Aintree as a premier racing venue. Over the years, the Grand National has become renowned for its dramatic finishes, underdog victories, and the unique challenges posed by its fences, such as Becher’s Brook and The Chair. It has produced legendary winners like Red Rum, who won the race three times in the 1970s. The Grand National is not just a sporting event; it’s a cultural institution in the UK, with a legacy that continues to grow each year.

Getting There by Air

Traveling to the Grand National involves flying into one of the major airports serving the Liverpool area and then making your way to Aintree Racecourse. Here’s a guide to getting there by air:

Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LPL)

• Location: Liverpool John Lennon Airport is the closest airport to Aintree Racecourse, located about 12 miles southeast of the racecourse.
• Overview: This airport handles numerous domestic and European flights, making it a convenient entry point for visitors coming to the Grand National.

Manchester Airport (MAN)

• Location: Manchester Airport is another major airport near Liverpool, located approximately 36 miles east of Aintree.
• Overview: As one of the busiest airports in the UK, Manchester Airport offers a wide range of domestic and international flights. It’s a good alternative if direct flights to Liverpool are unavailable.

Flights to Liverpool

• From the UK and Europe: Liverpool John Lennon Airport is well-connected with regular flights from cities across the UK and Europe, including London, Dublin, Amsterdam, and Berlin. Airlines like easyJet and Ryanair frequently operate routes to Liverpool.
• From North America and Other Continents: Travelers from North America or other continents can find direct flights to Manchester Airport, with connecting flights or ground transportation options available to Liverpool.

Transportation from the Airport

From Liverpool John Lennon Airport:

• • Taxi: Taxis are readily available at Liverpool John Lennon Airport. The journey to Aintree Racecourse takes approximately 25-30 minutes.
  • Public Transport: You can take a bus or taxi to Liverpool South Parkway Station and then catch a train to Aintree. The total journey time is around 40-50 minutes.
  • Car Hire: Several car hire companies operate at Liverpool John Lennon Airport, providing a flexible option for travel to Aintree.

From Manchester Airport:

• • • Train: There are direct train services from Manchester Airport to Liverpool Lime Street Station, with the journey taking about 1 hour. From Liverpool Lime Street, you can take a local train directly to Aintree Station.
    • Taxi: A taxi ride from Manchester Airport to Aintree Racecourse takes around 45-60 minutes.
    • Car Hire: Car hire is available at Manchester Airport, offering a convenient way to travel to Aintree and explore the surrounding area.

Accommodation

Liverpool offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Given the high demand during the Grand National, it is advisable to book your accommodation well in advance. Staying in central Liverpool provides easy access to Aintree Racecourse and the city’s attractions.

Visa Information

Looking to Travel to the UK?

If you are planning to travel to the UK for the Grand National and you are from a country outside the European Union, you may need a visa. Here’s a general guide to help you:

• Standard Visitor Visa: Most international visitors will need a Standard Visitor Visa to enter the UK. This visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to 6 months. You can apply for this visa online, and it typically requires proof of travel arrangements, accommodation details, and sufficient funds for your stay.
• EU/EEA Nationals: Citizens of the European Union, European Economic Area, and Switzerland do not need a visa to enter the UK for short visits.

Conclusion

Attending the Grand National is a unique experience, offering the chance to witness one of the world’s most famous horse races in person. Flying into Liverpool John Lennon Airport or Manchester Airport provides easy access to Aintree Racecourse. With its rich history and thrilling atmosphere, the Grand National is an event that draws spectators from around the globe, making early planning and travel arrangements essential for a memorable visit.