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The World is Watching

The Grand Guide


3 - 5 April 2025

Welcome to The Grand Guide

Your ultimate hub for everything Randox Grand National Festival 2025. Stay ahead with the latest entertainment announcements, racing news, and exclusive hospitality updates.


How this glorious grey became a Randox Grand National contender


Intense Raffles was reinvigorated when his owners switched him to Thomas Gibney's yard in Ireland. He has won the Irish Grand National and is a leading contender for the Randox Grand National. We visited Gibney's yard to get to get the inside story. Watch now:

Fearless style.

A panel of local style and sports experts are set to make up this years panel for the 2025 Style Awards.

 

To win the top prize value at £10,000, stylish racegoers will need to impress Boxing World Champion and Aintree Ambassador Natasha Jonas, The Guide's Gemma Cutting and Liverpool Echo's Emily Sleight .

 

Iconic British high-street retailer River Island is back as an Official Style Partner of Ladies’ Day at the Randox Grand National Festival 2025 with amazing prizes on offer for Best Dressed and Most Sustainably Dressed.

Head to our style guide if you need some raceday fashion inspiration.

Your festival, your feedback

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Get the most value for your money this year.

This year we're combining world-class racing with added value for money thanks to new initiatives shaped by fan feedback.

Arriving early brings rewards, with 20% off all food and drink for the first hour after gates open. Meal deals are now available at all food outlets, offering a main meal, snack, and drink at a great price. For those celebrating in style, there is £10 off bottles of prosecco on Ladies Day (April 4) and champagne on Grand National Day (April 5).

BOXPARK Liverpool to pop-up at Randox Grand National Festival

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BOXPARK Liverpool will bring it's energy and vibrancy to The Randox Grand National Festival with a bespoke container venue hosting up to 2000 people.

BOXPARK Liverpool will bring street food vendors serving a vast selection of delicious dishes include BOXPARK’s renowned Yoki Social Table that will offer tasty Korean BBQ dishes, Rock n Rogue will have a selection of pizzas and pastas, and there will also be Filthy Fries and ChicNWings to ensure there’s something for everyone.

Live entertainment will also be provided by Defected DJ and local legend Dom Townsend who will play his signature Disco and House sound, and BOXPARK Liverpool will also welcome DJ Tizzle who will host exciting food and drinks giveaways.

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Gloves off, aprons on!


Aintree Ambassador Natasha Jonas sat down with The Art School's Paul Askew to see how he brings his ideas to life from the kitchen to the table. The Art School at Aintree will return for 2025. Watch Now:

The Art School

Be part of the culinary experience at The Randox Grand National Festival, as award-winning, celebrity chef, Paul Askew and his expert team recreate The Art School at Aintree Racecourse.


The David Power Jockeys' Cup

The David Power Jockeys’ Cup is the ultimate must-watch event in horse racing this season. With a record-breaking £1.5 million prize fund, this season-long league competition is set to revolutionise Jumps racing, placing jockeys and their thrilling rivalries at the heart of the action. Honouring the legacy of legendary bookmaker, David Power, jockeys will compete in over 100 British Jump races across the season in a bid to accumulate as many points as possible, starting at Cheltenham on Friday 15th November and ending at Aintree on 4th April.

 

"My Grandad is the first on the phone when I make a mistake" - Harry Skelton - Jockeys' Cup Podcast

 

Reigning champion jockey Harry Skelton is the first guest in the new David Power Jockeys' Cup podcast series, brought to you in association with Sporting Life.

 

In Case You Missed It!

We are excited to reveal the striking design of this year's Randox Grand National Trophy, designed by iconic jeweller Boodles.

 

The trophy captures the essence of Randox through its Biochip-inspired design, symbolising innovation, cutting-edge technology, and human endeavour towards scientific progress. Boodles designers wanted to pay homage to the iconic Aintree racecourse by subtly incorporating its features in the design. Both the molecular structure and the DNA helix have sixteen spheres and bars respectively, reflecting the sixteen jumps of the Grand National course.

 

Mounted on a beautiful green malachite base, the trophy nods to Randox’s brand colour and the historic use of gemstones in Grand National trophies: the trophy celebrates Boodles’ deep ties to Liverpool and Randox’s racing legacy. The stylised horseshoe structure of the trophy pays tribute to the Grand National and both brands’ shared love of racing. The inclusion of diamond discs adds a touch of Boodles’ charm, while the green malachite base links our past and the present.

 

We are exciting to announce the appointment of local poet Emily Tootle as the first ever Poet Laureate for the 2025 Randox Grand National Festival.

Emily recited her poem 'The Greatest Story in Sport' at the Weights Lunch.

Watch her performance below:

 

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Nine-year-old Joshua Duckworth has been announced as the honorary 35th runner in the 2025 Randox Grand National.

 

The Aintree resident and massive Liverpool FC fan hails from a family that is passionate about racing. Joshua loves meeting racing personalities and over the past year he has met the Grand National-winning jockeys Sir AP McCoy, Ruby Walsh and Rachael Blackmore.

 

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We’re thrilled to announce that Brad Kella, the exceptionally talented pianist from Bootle and recent winner of Channel 4’s The Piano, will perform on Grand National Day.

 

Having captivated audiences across the UK with his remarkable performances, Brad now brings his scholarship-winning talent to Aintree. Set against the iconic backdrop of the Grand National, this special performance promises to be an unforgettable addition to an already exhilarating day at the races.

 

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to witness a local star shine on racing’s biggest stage!

 

The Randox Grand National Festival is hitting the big screen! Catch an exclusive sneak peek of the action below:

Get ready for an unforgettable Ladies Day, as Glitterbox resident and founder of Full Fat DJ Fat Tony takes the stage in the Red Rum Garden to deliver a show-stopping set. Known for his electrifying performances in Ibiza, Glastonbury and beyond, Fat Tony is bringing his star power and signature sound to one of the most glamorous events on the calendar.

 

Fat Tony’s celebrated career includes spinning at the most exclusive parties in the world, and as the go-to DJ for the likes of British Vogue, Versace and Margiela, he's a perfect fit for a day renowned for its elegance and high fashion. As he gears up for the excitement of his Ibiza season, this performance promises to blend world-class beats with the sophisticated energy of Aintree.

 

Don’t miss your chance to witness DJ Fat Tony’s magic live at the Red Rum Garden. Whether you’re here for the racing, the fashion, or the music, this Ladies Day will be one for the books.

 

Acclaimed Liverpool-born actor and filmmaker David Morrissey takes us on a journey through his personal memories of the Grand National. From his Nan’s 50p bets to his reflections on what this iconic event means to the city of Liverpool, David shares stories that capture the essence of the festival. Hear why he believes the Grand National is more than just a race, it’s a celebration of tradition, community, and unforgettable moments.

 

Liverpool’s airwaves are about to get even more exciting as Hits Radio Liverpool brings its flagship breakfast show to the city’s most iconic event.

 

Presenters Leanne & Joel will be broadcasting live from Aintree Racecourse all morning on Friday 4th April, offering listeners a unique insight into the day’s activities, from standout fashion moments to the high-stakes action on the track.

 

Adding to the Hits Radio party, former Pussycat Doll turned DJ and presenter, Kimberly Wyatt will take to the decks in the Red Rum Garden, bringing the Hits Radio energy to life with a show-stopping set. It’s a celebration of music, style, and sport that’s set to make Ladies Day truly unforgettable.

 

Kimberly, who presents the The Hits Radio Throwback every Sunday evening from 7pm, says: ‘Ladies Day at the Grand National is one of the UK’s most iconic events and I can’t wait to get party started in the Red Rum Garden this year! Ladies, you bring the ‘fits and I’ll bring the hits!’

Don’t miss the Hits Radio Breakfast Show weekdays from 6-10am for exclusive Festival updates and chances to win coveted tickets to the event of the year.

 

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Liverpool’s own Craig Charles is set to bring his iconic funk and soul sound to Aintree Racecourse, headlining Grand National Day in the Red Rum Garden at the 2025 Randox Grand National Festival.

A household name and celebrated DJ, Craig Charles has been at the forefront of the UK’s funk and soul movement for over two decades. With his infectious energy and impeccable track selection, Craig’s live sets are renowned for keeping the dance floor moving well into the night.

 

For Grand National Day, Craig will bring his Funk and Soul Train to Aintree, transforming the Red Rum Garden into a powerhouse of groove, rhythm, and good vibes. Whether you’re a fan of funk, a soul music aficionado, or simply looking for an incredible soundtrack to cap off your festival experience, Craig Charles is guaranteed to deliver a show to remember.

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Get ready for a cocktail celebration's at this year’s Randox Grand National Festival, as Revolution Bar returns to the Red Rum Garden to deliver the ultimate party atmosphere! Following the huge success of last year’s pop-up, Revs is back and better than ever, bringing its unique blend of cocktails, unforgettable vibes, and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments to the Festival Zone.

 

Known for its vibrant energy and creative drinks, Revolution is the perfect addition to the festival’s lively atmosphere. From classic vodka concoctions to trend-setting signature cocktails, Revs will have something for every taste. Whether you’re dancing to the music, capturing your race-day look in a photo-perfect setting, or just soaking in the excitement, Revs promises a festival experience like no other.

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Jockey's from across the UK and Ireland visited Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool last week, bringing smiles to young patients and their families.

 

Grand National winners Sir AP McCoy, Rachael Blackmore, Mick Fitzgerald, and others handed out gifts, shared laughs, and created special memories during their heartwarming visit.

“It’s the most fabulous place,” said Sir AP McCoy, a long-time supporter of Alder Hey.

 

This visit, part of Aintree’s partnership with Alder Hey, highlights the spirit of giving this holiday season.

David Croft is the voice of Sky Sports' Formula One coverage and during his trip to Aintree Racecourse for the Randox Grand National he got to meet one of horse racing's great voices, Richard Hoiles.

During an exclusive visit to Willie Mullins' yard, the thrilling news that I Am Maximus, affectionately known as "Moo Moo" in the yard, will return to Aintree in 2025 to defend his Grand National crown.

 

Mullins revealed his ambition for the champion to join the ranks of legends like Red Rum and Tiger Roll, who claimed multiple victories in the iconic race.

 

“Red Rum won three and Tiger Roll won two, and I think JP [McManus, owner] would be keen to have a horse who can try to win two and maybe try for a third one. If you don’t try, you don’t succeed, so that’s the plan," Mullins shared.

 

We've made major improvement to track safety for the 2024-25 season and beyond at both Aintree and Cheltenham with the introduction of padded hurdles.

 

Designed with both horse and rider in mind, these innovative hurdles have been carefully trialed and are proven to reduce the number of fallers by an impressive 11%.

 

Get an in-depth look at how padded hurdles are set to make a positive impact on the sport by watching the video below:

The Art School at Aintree Racecourse

Award-winning, celebrity chef, Paul Askew, and his expert team will once again recreate The Art School at Aintree Racecourse for the 2025 Randox Grand National Festival. This unmissable culinary experience features a six-course tasting menu complemented by a flight of fine wines all within view of the Parade Ring. In Chef Askew’s words: “The Grand National embraces everything that I love about gastronomy and hospitality”.

 

Discover the inspiration behind this unique collaboration and learn more about the artistry and passion Chef Askew brings to each dish in our exclusive Q&A.

 

My menus are always influenced by the quality of the seasonal ingredients. We spend so much time seeking out the very best that our region can produce. I like to show off the food cultural identity of the Liverpool city region and remind people of our world-class ingredients to go alongside world-class horseracing.


This year, as we focus on sustainability, we will introduce more foraged produce and Cheshire Wild Venison will be supplying ethically sourced fallow deer and hare for the new terrine created in our kitchens. This will sit alongside the introduction of a new scallop & Café de Paris butter dish.


Game is something that we love to cook with and will always remind me of the first ever visit to Aintree when Albert Roux was cooking a wonderful game and squab pigeon pithivier for Patrick Martel. I was so lucky to spend the day with him.

Mother Nature and seasonality is at the heart of every menu that is created by The Art School team. March and April bring a variety of new season produce from the region’s suppliers and farms, the best of which are developed into our menus. For prestigious events however, such as the Grand National meeting, we like to push the boat out a little and bring additional luxury touches to our menus.

 

The main ethos of The Art School remains the same: find the best local, seasonal produce and make the ingredients the star of the show by enhancing them with flavour, texture, special seasonings and techniques but never forgetting the importance of cooking with love.

The Grand National embraces everything that I love about gastronomy and hospitality. Being classically French trained, but loving and being inspired by modern Asian influences, I love the challenge and opportunity to prepare some of the industry’s most famous, time-honoured dishes in new and exciting ways.

 

Bringing diverse and wide-ranging cultural influences together and presenting them to both long-standing and new audiences, pairs perfectly with the Jockey Club ethos.


It’s all about keeping culinary and racing history current & vibrant to welcome and delight racegoers who attend religiously each year as well as guests attending for the first time. We need to ‘Wow’ people every time.

We have always steered away from ‘fads’ and the ‘smoke-and-mirror’ style of cooking. I opened The Art School with a vision that has slowly and subtly incorporated the emergence of the green revolution, global flavour influences, zero-waste & sustainable dining and local sourcing to name a few. We will continue to develop these ideas but will also be keeping an eye on future developments such as alternative proteins and the next generation of nutrient-rich superfoods. For now, the most popular innovation is the reinvention of ‘comfort food’, enriching it with bold, complex flavours and refined techniques. I can tell you that this is one trend close to my heart!

 

We never stop evolving and we always have a vegan menu available at the restaurant and constantly seek new ingredients to ensure that non-meat dishes are as exciting as the meat and fish dishes. This year we will be celebrating locally grown (in Southport) exotic species of mushrooms and foraged seaweeds foraged from Northern Ireland.

The table is the stage on which so much of life is set, from first dates to weddings, first homes to family dinners – and, of course, world-class racing. It is where we eat and drink, of course, but more than that, it is where we communicate. The big conversations – and subsequent decisions – happen between mouthfuls, amid the clatter of cutlery and plates. This is the essence of the kind of service I wanted my team to deliver when we first discussed service procedures 10 years back. Whilst we have refined what we do we strive to deliver to our guests a discreet, seamless service in the most comfortable, approachable manner.

 

We serve each guest with the same importance and love – always willing to go the extra mile. As the Jockey Club knows, when guests feel genuine care and hospitality they know and respond accordingly in their enjoyment. This is how great memories and atmosphere are created. As the great Sylvano Girardin, Maitre D’ of La Gavroche stated, ‘We are merchants of happiness….’

It's more than just the racing

Entertainment

There’s unmissable entertainment across all three days.

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Grand National Dress Code

There’s no official dress code at The Grand National. We encourage you to come dressed to feel your best! Aintree is a spectacle of colour for all three days of the festival, with many using their trip as an opportunity to showcase their favourite raceday looks".

Find out more

The Style Awards

The Randox Grand National Festival celebrates the best in racing, style and fashion as The Style Awards returned to Ladies Day at Aintree Racecourse.

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Be here in 2025

The Randox Grand National Festival is far more than just the world's greatest steeplechase; it's an experience of epic proportions, an event where stories become legends and unforgettable moments are etched into history.


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