Aintree Grand National Opening Day Hospitality
Experience Grand National Opening Day hospitality at Aintree Racecourse on Thursday 8 April 2027. The first day of the festival combines an outstanding programme of jump racing with the anticipation surrounding the weekend ahead. Opening Day traditionally offers a lively but more relaxed atmosphere than Ladies Day and Grand National Day. Therefore, it is an excellent choice for racing enthusiasts, corporate groups and first-time visitors who want to focus on the sporting action while enjoying premium facilities.
Explore further events through our Horse Racing events, discover year-round Aintree Racecourse experiences or compare all three festival days through our Grand National Hospitality.
Racing on Grand National Thursday
Grand National Opening Day provides a strong programme of jump racing in its own right. The provisional schedule is expected to include four Grade 1 contests: the Anniversary 4-Y-O Juvenile Hurdle, Manifesto Novices’ Chase, Racing Welfare Bowl and Aintree Hurdle. Another highlight is the Foxhunters’ Chase, which gives amateur riders the opportunity to compete over the famous Grand National fences. Meanwhile, the Red Rum Handicap Chase adds another competitive contest to the afternoon.
Together, these races bring leading horses, jockeys and trainers to Aintree from the beginning of the festival. However, race names, running order and timings remain subject to confirmation.
Compare Opening Day Hospitality Packages
Grand National Opening Day hospitality is available through a selection of restaurants and premium facilities. Current experiences may include The Green Room in the Corbière Suite, The Silks Restaurant and The Art School. Depending on the package selected, guests may receive racecourse admission, multi-course dining, complimentary drinks, reserved tables and access to private balconies or designated viewing areas. Selected experiences can also include racecards, betting facilities, parking, racing experts and celebrity hosts.
Each package offers different inclusions and viewing locations. Consequently, use the individual package descriptions below as the final guide before booking.
Book Grand National Opening Day
Thursday provides an impressive setting for entertaining clients, rewarding employees or enjoying a memorable day with friends and family. Furthermore, its comparatively relaxed atmosphere gives guests time to dine, socialise and follow the racing. Demand for popular restaurants and several places together can increase as the festival approaches. Browse the available Grand National Opening Day hospitality packages below or contact Ultimate Hospitality. We can check current availability internally and recommend an appropriate option for your group and budget.
The Green Room In The Corbière Suite £1,080
The Silks Restaurant From £650
The Art School £979
Papillon Restaurant £757
Princess Royal Restaurant £842
Golden Miller Restaurant £630
Many Clouds
Sunloch £666
Private Box £712
FAQs
When is Grand National Opening Day 2027?
Grand National Opening Day takes place at Aintree Racecourse on Thursday 8 April 2027. Event timings and the final race schedule remain subject to confirmation.
How much does Grand National Opening Day hospitality cost?
Prices depend on the selected restaurant, hospitality suite or private box. Group size, location, dining and drinks arrangements can also affect the cost. Review the available options on this page or contact our team for current prices.
What is included with Grand National Opening Day hospitality?
Depending on the package, benefits may include racecourse admission, premium viewing, dining, selected drinks, a racecard and access to an exclusive restaurant, suite or private box. Always check the individual package before booking because inclusions vary.
What hospitality options are available on Grand National Thursday?
Opening Day options may include shared restaurants, hospitality suites and private boxes. Some experiences provide reserved tables and shared facilities, while private boxes offer a dedicated space for your group. Availability can change each year.
What races take place on Grand National Opening Day?
Opening Day traditionally features a high-quality programme of jump racing, including Grade 1 contests and racing over the famous Grand National fences. The confirmed races and running order can change, so guests should check the official schedule closer to the festival.
Is Grand National Opening Day different from Ladies Day and Saturday?
Yes. Opening Day generally provides a lively but comparatively relaxed introduction to the festival, with a strong focus on elite racing. Ladies Day combines racing with fashion and social celebrations, while Saturday attracts the greatest demand because it features the Grand National itself.
What is the dress code for Grand National Opening Day hospitality?
There is no single official dress code for the wider Grand National Festival, although guests commonly wear smart race-day clothing. Sportswear, team colours and fancy dress should be avoided. Individual hospitality facilities may provide additional guidance, so check your itinerary before attending.
Is accessible hospitality available at Aintree Racecourse?
Accessible hospitality and viewing arrangements may be available, but suitability differs between facilities. Contact our team before booking so we can investigate wheelchair access, accessible seating, parking and any additional requirements for your preferred package.
Can children attend Grand National Opening Day hospitality?
Children can attend the Grand National Festival, although they require their own admission ticket and restrictions may apply. Hospitality facilities may also have separate policies or pricing, so families should confirm suitability before booking.
How do I travel to Aintree Racecourse for Opening Day?
Aintree Station is located opposite the racecourse and usually provides the most convenient public transport option. Guests can also travel by taxi, coach or car. Parking must normally be reserved in advance during the Grand National Festival, while selected hospitality packages may include parking.
Is Grand National Opening Day good for corporate hospitality?
Yes, Grand National Opening Day hospitality is a popular choice for corporate events. The slightly more relaxed atmosphere allows businesses to entertain clients, build relationships, and enjoy the racing in a comfortable and engaging setting.
