Aintree’s high-stakes guide to conquering the Grand National Festival from the best seats The Cheltenham Festival isn’t the only big multi-day meeting in Britain in the spring, as we also have the Grand National Festival, which is hosted by Aintree. Probably the most famous horse race in Europe, the Grand National itself is the main event but there’s an abundance of other top-class races to enjoy across the three days. Aintree’s atmosphere is famously electric and those who attend the races there never come away disappointed. For those who haven’t been before and are considering making the trip, here is a guide to all the enclosures and the different ticketing options available. Festival zone Prices: from £33.50 From this area you get a view of the closing stages of all the races, access to the Rum & Ginger Bar, as well as live music in the Aintree pavilion throughout the day. Access to the parade ring and winners’ enclosure as well as Tote betting facilities. The Embankment Prices: from £44.10 This area is ideal for more casual racegoers and the dress code is much more relaxed. One fun fact about the Embankment is that it’s home to one of Europe’s longest temporary bars, which is 100 metres long. It’s important to note that you can’t access the main racecourse from this enclosure. Betting facilities and a view of the big screen are both available, as are various food options. Earl Of Derby Terrace Prices: from £59.00 This outdoor terrace is situated next to the horsewalk and you get a good view of the racing, especially the Grand National itself. There’s also access to a private bar on the ground floor of the grandstand, as well as the Red Rum Garden. Post-racing live music is another perk and that entertainment is available on Thursday and Friday. Lord Sefton Terrace Prices: from £59 You get a close up view of the track and the horse wash-down area, as well as the parade ring and winners’ enclosure. Access to a private bar and the Red Rum Garden are also on offer. Wheelchair access is unavailable in this enclosure. Roof enclosures Prices: Lord Daresbury from £69, Princess Royal from £69 and Queen Mother from £102 There are three roof enclosures; Lord Daresbury, Princess Royal and Queen Mother. Each has its own dedicated bar. The most expensive is the Queen Mother Roof and you can get complimentary food and racecard vouchers as part of the package. Lord Sefton upper and lower Prices: from £104 Access to the private Saddle Bar, which overlooks the parade ring, is available and don’t worry about losing your space, as you have your own dedicated seat for the day. All the usual food, drink and betting facilities are also on offer. Earl Of Derby upper and lower This area gives you the highest vantage point of the racing action as well as access to the Upper Saddle Bar and your own assigned seats. Entry to the Red Rum Garden is also permitted and you can enjoy the live music after racing. Platinum Lounge seats Prices: from £140 The Platinum lounge is one of the most expensive packages available and the seating area is completely covered, should rain be attempting to spoil the day. You must be 21 or older for access and a complimentary racecard is on offer. Princess Royal seats and gallery Prices: from £140 This enclosure comes with all the bells and whistles and is also only open to those aged 21 or older. You get a reserved seat with lovely views of the racecourse plus entry to a lounge with Champagne and a full bar (drinks are not included in the price).
