Aintree Racecourse

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Aintree is one of the world’s most famous racecourses. With over two miles of luscious green racetrack. When a race takes place here at Aintree it is always a momentous occassion. It is the home of The John Smith's Grand National and although this is the most popular the course also host six other race days which all provide visitors with a special day out.

The Grand National is a world famous National Hunt horse race which is held at Aintree. It is a handicap chase run over a distance of about 4 miles and 856 yards, and during its running there are thirty fences to be jumped. It is presently scheduled to take place each year on a Saturday afternoon in early April.

It is the most valuable National Hunt event in Great Britain, and in 2009 it offered a total prize fund of £900,000. The race is popular amongst many people who do not normally watch or bet on horse racing at other times of the year. It is also one of the most controversial, due to the injuries and fatalities suffered by participating horses. This makes it a target for animal rights groups, which have campaigned to have it banned.

The Grand National has always been run over the same course at Aintree near Liverpool and consists of two circuits of sixteen fences, the first fourteen of which are jumped twice. The race is also notable for having arguably one of the longest runs from the final flight of any steeplechase.

The ever popular Ladies’ Day at John Smith’s Grand National meeting is a date which is firmly ingrained not only in the Liverpool but in the North West’s social calendar. The Grand National has always been talked about as the bringer of spring and that certainly can be said for the fashions of its many female racegoers. Some 50,000, half of which are female, flock to Aintree to celebrate this special day. 

Situated in the centre of Aintree Racecourse, home of the world famous John Smiths’ Grand National and the old Grand Prix motor racing track, Aintree Golf Centre boasts one of the most unique locations for a golf range in the UK. Where better to tee off than in a setting such as this? With a 30 Bay Floodlit Driving Range and the 9-hole golf course, one of the longest in the country, Aintree Golf Centre has it covered. Learn, practice and play at Aintree, the natural home of sporting champions.

Getting there:
Aintree Racecourse is located on the A59, just one mile from the M57 and M58, which link the M62 and M6. Follow the A59 to Liverpool and the AA signs as you approach the racecourse for routes to the car parks.