The Grand National is not only Britain’s most-watched horse race — it is also widely regarded as one of the world’s most famous steeplechases, attracting huge interest domestically and internationally.
The 2026 Festival will once again take place at Aintree Racecourse from April 9–11, with the Grand National itself run on Saturday, April 11.
This Grand National guide covers everything you need from latest betting odds to top bookmakers, runners to watch, schedule and betting tips.
Best Betting Sites for the Grand National
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The Grand National consistently generates the highest betting turnover in the UK market,
and leading bookmakers pull out all the stops around the race.
We’ve picked out a few key reasons why Bet365, Paddy Power and Betfair remain leading betting sites for the Grand National.
- Bet365 – Strong early markets, NRNB availability and reliable live streaming.
- Paddy Power – Known for “fallers refunded” or unique National-specific promos.
- Betfair Exchange – Strong value for back-and-lay players with price movement advantages.
Grand National Betting Tips & Offers
- Each-Way remains the most popular market — especially when enhanced place payouts extend to 6 or 7 places.
- NRNB (Non-Runner No Bet) — typically becomes early in the new year and is a key value window for punters
- Boosted Odds & Free Bet Offers — expect rolling boosts across Grand National week.
EXPLAINED: Win vs Each-Way Betting | What is a NAP? | Cheltenham Odds
When Is the Grand National 2026?
The Grand National 2026 will take place on Saturday, April 11 as three days of top-class National Hunt racing at Aintree culminates in the biggest event on Saturday afternoon.
Grand National Races & Schedule
Day 1 — Aintree Hurdle (April 9)
Champion hurdlers often clash again here, setting the tone for the Festival.
Day 2 — Melling Steeple Chase (April 10)
A high-class contest over 2m4f, often featuring runners from the Queen Mother Champion Chase and Ryanair Chase.
Day 3 — The Grand National (April 11)
The ultimate stamina test —around 4m2½f with 30 demanding fences, producing dramatic outcomes and frequent upsets. It remains the sport’s most unpredictable headline race.
MORE: Best UK free bets | Top December events to use them | How odds work
Grand National Runners and Predictions
The 2026 renewal shapes up as a rematch storyline, with proven Aintree performers returning. Here’s more on some of the leading contenders.
Nick Rockett
The winner of the 2025 Grand National showed toughness and jumping efficiency — he arrives seeking back-to-back titles.
Haiti Couleurs
A fast-improving contender and potential danger if conditions turn testing. He profiles as a stalker capable of picking up the pieces late on.
Iroko
Finished 4th in 2025. One of the most accurate jumpers in the field, and looks poised to move deeper into the winning conversation.
I Am Maximus
2024 Grand National winner and runner-up in 2025. Three-year storyline contender — he knows how to win this race and remains a leading favourite on class and course form.
Grangleclare West
3rd in 2025. Outstanding stamina profile and very much a horse in the mix again — particularly attractive to each-way bettors.
EXPLAINED: How to bet in-play | Free betting games | Best sports to bet on
FAQs About the Grand National
Where can I bet on the Grand National?
All the major UK bookmakers including bet365, Paddy Power, Sky Bet and Betfair.
What is the best bet type for beginners?
Each-Way — especially when place terms are enhanced.
Does the Cheltenham Festival impact Grand National odds?
Absolutely. Post-Cheltenham through to race week is typically when prices move the most sharply.
How many fences are there on the Grand National course?
The National features 16 fences, with 14 taken twice over the four-mile-plus trip. They are built from spruce woven into a flexible frame, and include famous obstacles such as Becher’s Brook, Canal Turn, Valentine’s and The Chair.