Grand National 2026: Date, start time, history & more

The annual Grand National at Aintree is the world's most recognisable horse race, a gruelling marathon which is one of Britain's most cherished sporting spectacles.

The Grand National is a handicap steeplechase run over a distance of four-and-a-quarter-miles - currently the longest distance of any race run in Britain. 

Here's everything you need to know about the world's greatest steeplechase.

2026 Grand National Date and Venue

The Grand National will take place on Saturday 11th April 2026 at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool.

The three-day Aintree Grand National Festival starts on Thursday 9th April, with Ladies Day taking place on Friday 10th April.

2026 Grand National Start Time

The 2026 Grand National will get underway at 16:00 GMT, a time which has been brought forward in recent years due to the ground quickening up later in the afternoon.

2026 Grand National Dress Code

The Jockey Club has a relaxed approach when it comes to the Grand National dress code.

Whilst many people opt for more formal attire, attendees can wear casual clothing at the Grand National.

More information on the dress code for the Grand National.

2026 Grand National Prize Money

Over £3 million is available across the Grand National Festival, with the Grand National alone consisting of a £1 million prize pot.

What is the prize money for the Grand National?

Number of horses in the 2026 Grand National

The days of 40 horses running in the Grand National were officially over ahead of the 2024 race.

The 2026 Grand National will once again have a reduced field size, with a maximum number of 34 horses set to compete in the race.

How many horses run in the Grand National?

Grand National Fence Names

The Grand National fences are the most famous throughout the sport.

Click the link below to find out more about Foinavon, The Chair and Becher's Brook.

Grand National Fence Names & Order

2026 Grand National Weights

I Am Maximus was the top-weight for the 2025 Grand National.

Here is everything you need to know about the Grand National weights.

Grand National History

The National is the most iconic jumps race in the world and has a far-reaching appeal that extends beyond regular fans of horse racing.

Perhaps the most famous National horse of all-time is Red Rum, who won three times (1973, '74 & '77) for legendary trainer Ginger McCain. Tiger Roll (2018 & '19) is the only horse since Red Rum to retain the Aintree prize.

The race has been won by the great and the good of jumps racing and the winners often have fantastic stories attached to them. 

In modern times, the quest of 20-time champion jockey AP McCoy to win the race was a long-running story - one that finally resulted in ultimate glory when he won on Don't Push It in 2010.

Grand National Biggest Upsets

With as many as 34 horses lining up, the Grand National is one of the most open betting heats in the calendar and it takes both ability and luck to win on the day.

The race has thrown up its share of shocks down the years, with five winners returned at odds of 100/1. They were: Tipperary Tim (1928), Gregalach (1929), Caughoo (1947), Foinavon (1967) and Mon Mome (2009).

For all information about the Grand National such as guides, horses and odds, be sure to explore our dedicated Grand National betting odds hub. You can also learn about Past Grand National Winner Trends to help inform your decision.