2026 Nationals Dates and Venues: Aintree, Scottish, Irish, Welsh and Midlands
There’s something about the word “National” that sets punters’ pulses racing. Whether it’s Aintree, Ayr, Fairyhouse, Chepstow or Uttoxeter, these marathons of courage and stamina are the fixtures that dominate the jumps season. Each race has its quirks, its history, and its own loyal following. Put them together, and you have a calendar of contests that define the very essence of National Hunt racing.
And while we all dream of finding the winner at big odds, bookmakers are ready to tempt us in with offers. For instance, William Hill are offering Bet £10 Get £40 in free bets bonus for new customers – a handy cushion when your carefully chosen selection decides that jumping fences is optional.
So, let’s map out the key dates and venues for the 2026 season’s biggest Grand Nationals.
Aintree Grand National – Saturday 11 April 2026
The jewel in the crown, the race that stops the nation – the Randox Grand National at Aintree Racecourse. The 2026 renewal takes place on Saturday 11 April 2026, the finale of the famous three-day Aintree Festival, which runs from 9–11 April.
Aintree, just outside Liverpool, is the stage where legends are made. Forty runners, over four miles two furlongs, face thirty fences including Becher’s Brook, The Chair and the Canal Turn. Millions will be watching, and for many, this is the only horse race they follow all year. It remains the ultimate test of horse, jockey and anyone brave enough to have a punt.
Scottish Grand National – Saturday 18 April 2026
A week later, attention shifts north of the border to Ayr Racecourse for the Scottish Grand National on Saturday 18 April 2026. The race forms the centrepiece of a two-day festival held on the 17th and 18th, bringing thousands to Scotland’s premier racecourse.
Run over four miles with 27 fences to clear, the Scottish National is every bit as gruelling as its English counterpart. Ayr’s left-handed track with its testing finish has provided some memorable battles over the years. For many horses that miss out at Aintree, this becomes the big spring target.
Irish Grand National – Monday 6 April 2026
The Irish Grand National traditionally falls on Easter Monday, and in 2026 that means Monday 6 April. The race takes place at Fairyhouse Racecourse in County Meath, just outside Dublin.
It’s Ireland’s most prestigious staying handicap chase, attracting the very best from both sides of the Irish Sea. With its enormous prize pot and fierce competition, the Irish National has produced some outstanding winners – and more than a few heartbreaks for punters.
Welsh Grand National – Sunday 27 December 2026
Just when you thought you’d survived the festive season, along comes the Welsh Grand National to shake off the mince pie stupor. Scheduled for Sunday 27 December 2026 at Chepstow Racecourse in Monmouthshire, this is the winter’s great staying test.
The race is traditionally run on testing ground, with stamina the absolute key. Over the years, it has unearthed horses who went on to become genuine staying greats. For racegoers, it’s the perfect way to stretch the legs after Christmas – though the going underfoot often resembles a swamp rather than a racetrack.
Midlands Grand National – Saturday 14 March 2026
The Midlands Grand National at Uttoxeter often slips under the radar compared to the glamour of Aintree or Ayr, but make no mistake: it’s a serious slog. The 2026 edition takes place on Saturday 14 March 2026 at the Staffordshire track.
Staged over four miles two furlongs in heavy ground more often than not, the Midlands National has a reputation for being one of the toughest races of the season. It’s a contest where only the stoutest stayers survive, and where punters learn quickly that backing a flashy type is usually a mistake.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – five Nationals, five dates, and five venues to ink into the diary. Aintree on 11 April, Ayr on 18 April, Fairyhouse on 6 April, Chepstow on 27 December, and Uttoxeter on 14 March. Together, they form the backbone of the jumping season, offering thrills, spills and the occasional miracle winner.
And with bookmakers like William Hill offering Bet £10 Get £40 in free bets to new customers, there’s no shortage of incentive to get involved. Just don’t forget: these races are marathons, not sprints – for horses, jockeys and punters alike.