Aintree is buzzing as the Grand National returns tomorrow.
The prestigious sporting event will once again open its doors to spectators for the first time since 2019 after years rocked by the pandemic. The Grand National is renowned as one of the UK's most luxurious events and thousands of racegoers will don their smartest suits and dresses for three days of horse racing.
While many people enjoy the racing from the Tattersalls, there are also a variety of hospitality packages available. Daniel Bradbury is a national sales executive at the Jockey Club responsible for delivering the VIP packages and he described the offerings as "the cherry on top" of the race-going experience.
READ MORE: Grand National 2022: Aintree pubs and restaurants reflect on 'massive struggle' to survive
He told the ECHO: "The event itself is already amazing, but hospitality just takes that to another level. There's always something which will appeal to everyone.
"Even if you've got special requirements then we'll go out of our way to tailor it for a client just to make sure the experience is as special as possible."
Daniel has worked at the Jockey Club for the past three years, but this is the first time he will experience the Grand National in its true form after last year's racing was staged behind closed doors. He said: "Last year I was temperature checking and wrist banding jockeys.
"It was a complete change, whereas this year I will be running around after my clients, looking after them in the restaurants making sure they've got everything they need. I'm looking forward to a more normal experience like what I expected it to be."
The Grand National meeting is traditionally a star-studded affair as many celebrities have attended the world-famous L9 racecourse over the years. Daniel said the "electric" atmosphere of Aintree races makes it the "place to be". He said: "It's an amazing place. The atmosphere here is completely different to any other place."
In the past, celebrities such as Paddy and Christine McGuinness, Jack Whitehall and Jason Manford have had the VIP experience at Aintree. However, Daniel said hospitality at Aintree appeals to everyone and the team will try and accommodate any requests.
He added: "It doesn't really matter who you are. We cater to absolutely everyone. If we can do it, we will go out of our way to do it for you. We always say ask the question, we'll look into it for you and, if we can, we'll make it work.
He continued: "The packages are incredible and range from a champagne and canape reception, exquisite four course a la carte lunch, full complimentary bars, private betting areas and amazing views of the racecourse with a private balcony."
Packages available this year range from the Silver Birch Garden Party and an exclusive dining experience at the in demand 1750 suite. However, Daniel said he's particularly looking forward to see award-winning chef Paul Askew bring his acclaimed Art School to Aintree.
This experience is priced at £1015 per person and features a six-course tasting menu, including champagne afternoon tea, complimentary champagnes & premium flight of wine - and access to Grandstand Roof for race viewing.
He said: "It's the first year we've done it and it's got a unique look over the Parade ring, which is a very hard area to get to on National Day because of the thousands of people. You've got insane food and then in regards to location for racing it doesn't get any better. You can't get closer to the Grand National."
There is also a range of Pavilion Executive Boxes and Grandstand Boxes. Daniel estimates these are priced around £1100 per head for the day of the Grand National, but said these packages are quickly snapped up by racegoers.
He added: They are like gold dust. They'll go on sale for next year's Grand National on Monday April 11. Within a couple of weeks, we will have sold all the boxes for Saturday."
Get the top stories straight to your inbox by signing up for one of our free newsletters
