What is the dress code for the Grand National?

The Grand National is the most famous horse race in the British sporting calendar.

In April every year, the eyes of the sporting world become transfixed on Aintree as horse racing attracts a wider audience than at any other point of the year.

Aintree Racecourse itself has a number of different enclosures and if you're planning to head to Aintree for the 2025 race, then here is everything you need to know regarding the Grand National dress code.

Grand National Dress Code

The Jockey Club, Aintree's governing body, has no formal dress code but it is generally acknowledged that many do like to dress up for the Grand National.

Regular racegoers, casual horse racing fans and celebrities from the world of showbiz descend on the racecourse across the three days of the Grand National Festival.

Many attendees use the event as an opportunity to showcase their favourite racing attire.

No fancy dress is permitted at the Grand National and racegoers should avoid wearing sports kits or specific team colours.

You can check some of the Grand National outfits from previous years courtesy of the Jockey Club's gallery.

What to wear at the Grand National?

Gentleman often wear suits for the Grand National, although some attendees do opt for more casual attire.

A blazer, shirt and smart trousers combination is another popular trend when it comes to choosing what to wear for the Grand National.

With temperatures generally slightly warmer in April and the possibility of some sunshine, gentlemen will sometimes mix their outfit, potentially with a shirt, tie and waistcoat, rather than bringing a suit jacket.

For ladies, the Grand National Festival is an opportunity to wear smart spring or summer dresses.

Aintree is a spectacle of colour across the three days and a chance to 'dress to impress'.

Whilst it will generally be warmer in April, conditions can sometimes be unpredictable and ladies will often combine their dresses with a blazer or coat.

Sensible shoes are a must to allow for navigating around the course and enclosures, as well as coming to-and-from the car parks.

Can you wear jeans at the Grand National Festival?

The Grand National is less strict than meetings such as Royal Ascot and for those looking for casual Grand National races outfit ideas, you can take comfort in the fact that not everybody wears a luxury suit or an expensive dress.

Whilst shirts, ties and blazers are more common, it is perfectly acceptable to wear a comfortable coat or a casual jumper when heading to Aintree in April.

You can also wear jeans to the Grand National, with some people matching jeans with a more formal jacket or blazer.

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.