Aintree Grand National Ladies Day 2026 Guide

The Aintree’s Ladies Day returns in April 2026, as part of the Randox Grand National Festival, held at Aintree Racecourse (Ormskirk Road, Liverpool L9 5AS). It’s the middle day of the three-day meeting — the one that combined world-class racing with high fashion and all in a festival atmosphere.  On the day, gates open from 10:30 a.m., the first race around 1:45 p.m., and the last race near 5:15 p.m.

Tickets and Hospitality

Tickets for Ladies Day usually go on sale in late spring or early summer through the Jockey Club website.
Choose from:

• General Admission – access to open enclosures and lawns.

• Grandstand – better track views and covered stands.

• Hospitality packages – private suites, tables, and dining

Booking early is a must for such a hot ticket event. If you want to add sparkle, look at Champagne Terrace or Princess Royal Stand packages.

Getting There

By Train

Aintree Station is directly opposite the racecourse gates, and Merseyrail runs trains from Liverpool Central and Moorfields on all festival days. It’s just 15 minutes from the city centre, and return trains run late after the last race.

By Car

Parking must be pre-booked via the Jockey Club website as on-the-day spaces are rarely available. Traffic after the last race can be heavy, so plan extra time if you’re heading back to Liverpool for dinner or an after-party.

By Air

If you’re an international fan, flying it, Liverpool John Lennon Airport is only 20 minutes away, and Manchester Airport about 45 minutes. Both connect easily by road or rail.

What to Wear

There’s no formal dress code, but Ladies Day is of course famously fashionable, so opt for bold colours, classic tailoring, and stand out hats rather than overly novelty approaches. Dress to impress.

The Style Awards

No Aintree Ladies Day is complete without the Style Awards — a crowd favourite celebrating individual flair. To enter, get photographed on arrival at the pink carpet zone, where style scouts select contestants throughout the morning. Winners take home top prizes. Follow @AintreeRaces and #LadiesDayStyleAwards for live updates and inspiration from previous winners.

Race Highlights

The racing action itself is first-class. The Marsh Melling Chase and Top Novices’ Hurdle are usually among the day’s feature contests, attracting leading horses, jockeys and trainers. The official racecard offers a handy guide to the full running order. From there you can have a flutter via on course bookmaker or online.

Food, Drink & Hospitality

Aintree’s food scene has moved far beyond the traditional race-day burger. Expect:

• Champagne bars and cocktail terraces with live DJs.

• Pop-up restaurants and fine-dining marquees in hospitality areas.

• Street-food stalls offering everything from tasty pies to vegan wraps.

As with most racecourses, outside food and drink are generally not allowed, so instead enjoy the on-site offerings. Bring both card and a little cash to have all the bases  and eventualities covered.

Accessibility & Safety

Aintree provides step-free access, accessible toilets, and designated viewing areas for disabled guests.
Security checks are in place at all gates — large bags aren’t permitted, so travel light.
Alcohol rules are sensible but enforced; stewards are friendly and trained to help anyone feeling unwell or separated from friends.

Hotels & Afterparties

Many racegoers base themselves in Liverpool city centre, where trains to Aintree take just 15 minutes. Popular hotel areas include the Albert Dock, Hope Street, and the Baltic Triangle.

After the final race, the atmosphere moves into the city’s bars and restaurants — try Albert’s Schloss, Bacaro, or The Florist for post-racing drinks. Or there’s always the Carvern Quarter (home of the Cavern Club) for lovers of live music with their pint!