There’s a pulse to Grand National Saturday that you can feel long before the tape goes up. For racing fans and first-timers alike, Aintree’s biggest day is a celebration of tradition, spectacle, and shared excitement.
This guide unpacks the Grand National Saturday schedule for 2026, highlights what time the big race starts, and walks you through the day’s unfolding drama - making it all about the experience, not just the odds.
If you’re set for a day at the races with 888sport or tuning in from home, here’s what you need to know.
Grand National Day 2026: Full Race Schedule At Aintree
- 12:45pm – Maghull Novices Chase (1m 7f)
- 1:20pm – William Hill Top Price Guarantee Handicap Hurdle (3m ½f)
- 1:55pm – Turners Mersey Novices’ Hurdle (2m 4f)
- 2:30pm – William Hill Handicap Steeple Chase (Freebooter Handicap, 3m 1f)
- 3:05pm – Ivy Liverpool Hurdle (3m ½f)
- 4:00pm – Randox Grand National Handicap Steeple Chase (4m 2½f)
- 5:00pm – Weatherbys Bumper (2m)
Plan for the Full Day, Not Just the Main Event
The Grand National 2026 start time is set for 4:00 pm, but the day’s narrative stretches far beyond those nine minutes over the fences. Arriving early lets you soak up the festival energy, enjoy the build-up, and catch all the supporting races.
Wondering what races are before the Grand National on Saturday? The curtain-raisers are fiercely contested - sometimes creating nearly as much buzz as the main event.
Know the Channel and the Card
Wondering what channel the Grand National is on in 2026? All the action, from the first starter to the last home, will be broadcast live on ITV and Racing TV.
With six races on the Aintree Saturday card, there’s a rhythm to the day, punctuated by the anticipation before the feature race. Having the full Grand National race day schedule to hand means you won’t miss a single moment.
Dress for the Occasion... and the Weather!
The Grand National dress code is famously expressive, and style is as much a part of Aintree tradition as the horses themselves.
While there’s no strict dress code, racegoers commonly opt for sharp tailoring, bold hats, and weather-appropriate layers - April in Liverpool can be unpredictable. Dressing up adds to the sense of occasion, whether you’re there for the spectacle or the social atmosphere.
Make It a Leisure Activity
With excitement peaking at 4:00 pm, it can be tempting to focus only on the big race, but Grand National Saturday is built for entertainment. Betting, when done responsibly, is just one part of the day.
Set yourself a budget, use safer gambling tools, and remember: walking away when the fun stops keeps the day memorable for the right reasons. If you’re seeking tips, explore our Grand National Festival news section for background; there’s plenty to enjoy, both on and off the track.
Enjoy the Unique Drama of Grand National Day
Every race sets the stage for the main event, from the first hurdle at 1:20 pm to the last sprint at 5:00 pm.
With stories ready to unfold in every contest, the question isn’t just about what are the best bets on Grand National Saturday - it’s about embracing the spectacle and seeing where the day takes you.
More News & Tips On The Aintree Grand National Festival:
- Grand National Prize Money Breakdown For 2026
- Race Schedule and Race Times for the 2026 Grand National Festival
- How to bet each way on the Grand National
- The biggest priced winners of the Grand National
- The most successful jockeys in Grand National history
- The most successful trainers in Grand National history
- How to enjoy Day 1 of the Aintree Grand National meeting
- How to enjoy Day 2 of the Aintree Grand National meeting
Safer Gambling: Gambling should always be fun and part of your leisure time. Set your limits and take regular breaks. For support, visit www.begambleaware.org or call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133.
