The Grand National is the biggest race on the racing calendar with a prize fund of over £1million and watched by between 500 and 600 people worldwide in over 140 countries.

It’s a race steeped in history which has seen everything from the legendary Red Rum winning a historic treble in the 1970s to the dramas of false starts which resulted in a void race in 1993.

There’s something special about the Grand National. Every year it captures the imagination of the entire nation with half of the UK population having a punt on the race and using their own unique method for picking the winner, whether it’s their lucky number, house number or whether the horse’s name resembles their hobby.

For the 40 racehorses and riders, the Grand National provides the ultimate test of endurance and bravery as they attempt to negotiate two circuits of the Aintree course, and 30 of the most famous and imposing fences in the world over four and a half miles.

The Chair, Valentines, Becher’s Brook and The Canal Turn are notoriously big fences that add to the spectacle of the race and must all be cleared before the long run in tests the stamina of both horse and jockey right to the winning post.

In addition to the Grand National, the meeting also includes other respected Grade 1 races the Novices' Chase and Aintree Hurdle which provide the perfect build up to the main event.

While the Grand National is watched by millions at home, nothing beats actually being there and experiencing the electric atmosphere and roar of the crowd as the tape goes up. Back your favourite and cheer them on as the nail-biting action unfolds.

Booking with National Holidays is the best way to attend the best British sporting institutions. With coach travel, ticket admission and hotel accommodation included you’re free to enjoy the event without having to worry about parking and traffic.

A sell out tour every year, book quickly to avoid disappointment.

To find your coach holiday or break to the Grand National simply use our Holiday Search above.