Three days of excitement, atmosphere, and world‑class racing are on the way. Whether you're following a favourite runner, checking the schedule, or simply enjoying the buzz of the Festival, here's a clear and friendly guide to each day.
Day 1 — Randox Opening Day (9 April)
A lively opening to the Festival, Randox Opening Day kicks things off with high-energy racing and a brilliant atmosphere.
Race schedule
Time | Race | Grade | Distance |
13:45 | Boodles Juvenile Hurdle | Grade 1 | 2m 4f |
14:00 | Manifesto Novices’ | Grade 1 | 2m 1f |
14:55 | Aintree Bowl | — | 3m 1f |
15:30 | Foxhunters’ Chase | — | 2m 5f |
16:05 | Aintree Hurdle | Grade 1 | 2m 4f |
16:40 | Red Rum Chase | — | 2m |
17:15 | Mares’ NH Flat Race | — | 3m 1f |
Note: This opening day often sets the tone for the Festival, with fast and competitive racing throughout.
Day 2 — Randox Ladies Day (10 April)
A stylish and lively day, full of colour, atmosphere and top-tier racing.
Race schedule
Time | Race | Grade | Distance |
13:45 | William Hill Handicap Hurdle | Grade 1 | 3m 1f |
14:20 | Mildmay Novices | Grade 1 | 2m 4f |
14:55 | Top Novices’ Hurdle | — | 2m ½f |
15:30 | Melling Chase | — | 2m ½f |
16:05 | Topham Chase | Grade 1 | 2m 4f |
16:40 | Sefton Novices Hurdle | — | 3m ½f |
17:15 | Debenhams Hurdle | Grade 1 | 2m ½f |
Feature race
Melling Chase
Considered the headline race of the Friday race card and usually the one with the strongest field and biggest names.
Day 3 — Randox Grand National Day (11 April)
A day packed with atmosphere, tradition and racing that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
Race schedule
Time | Race | Grade | Distance |
12:45 | Maghull Chase | Grade 2 | 2m |
13:20 | William Hill Hurdle | Grade 2 | 3m ½f |
13:55 | Mersey Novices’ Hurdle | Grade 1 | 2m 4f |
14:30 | Mersey Novices | Grade 1 | 2m 4f |
15:05 | Liverpool Hurdle | Grade 1 | 2m 4½f |
16:40 | Grand National | — | 4m 2 ½f |
17:20 | Weatherbys NH flat Race | — | 2m 1f |
Feature race
The Grand National
Bringing the festival to a close as the most anticipated and iconic event of the meeting.