Find more events
From the biggest festivals to sporting spectaculars and more...
Explore other eventsWe accept:
Grand National 2026
Catch return coach travel to Aintree for he biggest racing event of the year
Travel directly to the Grand National
Aintree Racecourse, Liverpool
11 April 2026
Book your direct return coach from 10+ locations for the UK’s most spectacular horse-racing event on Saturday 11 April 2026.
Experience the excitement of the Grand National at Aintree with the UK’s trusted coach operator, National Express. Whether you’re going for the thrill of the fences, the atmosphere of the parade ring, or simply a fun day out with friends, we’ve got you covered.
For more information please visit the official Grand National website.
Pickup locations include:
-
Birmingham Coach Station (Digbeth)
-
Blackpool (Central Coach Station)
-
Bradford, Nelson Street
-
Chesterfield
-
Dudley
-
Leeds Coach Station (Dyer Street)
-
Manchester Coach Station (Chorlton Street)
-
Nottingham, Station Street
-
Preston, Lancashire
-
Sheffield Coach Station (Pond Street)
-
Stoke-on-Trent (Hanley)
Coach and ticket packages
You can now choose whether you want to simply take the coach to Aintree, or purchase a coach and Embankment or Festival Zone package.
Embankment
With an Embankment ticket, you'll have great views of the first fences of the racecourse, along with plenty of bar and catering options, live entertainment, big screen accessibility and much more!
Festival Zone
With a Festival Zone ticket, you gain access to views of every Grand National race conclusion, as well as the Parade Ring and Winners’ Enclosure. Plus, you can relax and soak in the atmosphere of the Red Rum Garden, Irish Bar and the Aintree Pavilion, all with plenty of live music and cheer.
Don't miss out, packages are limited so order yours now in the blue journey planner above.
-
Coaches depart from major stops including Birmingham, Manchester, Nottingham, Sheffield, Blackpool and more.
-
Arrival at Aintree approx. 11:00am; return coach departs approx. 19:30pm.
-
All bookings include guaranteed seating and standard of comfort.
-
Visit the official Grand National website for full race details, festival agenda and ticket info.
-
Read our travel tips for coach travel and what to pack for your Grand National experience.
Frequently asked questions
The coach services for the Grand National to Aintree Racecourse on 11 April 2026.
All coaches will arrive at Aintree Racecourse at approximately 11:00am and leave Aintree Racecourse at approximately 19:30pm
The coach will drop you off and pick you up directly from Aintree Racecourse.
A return journey to the Grand National is available from as little as £33.
USB Charging
Our coaches are fitted with USB A charging points on the back of our chair. On some coaches the design may differ if there is a 240v household plug socket instead.
Free Wi-Fi
Our Wi-Fi service is available on our National Express branded network of coaches and it's free to use!
Simply connect to the Wi-Fi network named "National Express Coach"
Reclining Leather Seats
Our coaches have leather reclining seats. The below images details where the recline button is. In addition there are foldable arm rests, and a tray table on the rear of the seat which incorporates a cup holder and stand for your smart phone.
On Board Toilet
All our National Express Coaches have a toilet on board.* This is located at the back of the coach and also includes a sink. The toilet can be used during your journey.
Personal Ventilation & Reading Light
Above your seat you will find a vent that you can easily open for cool air and a reading light.
