The 2022 Grand National Festival finally gets underway at Aintree from Thursday - and nobody knows the event better than Scousers themselves.
If you're off the races then - as everyone knows - no matter the weather you're always guaranteed a good day out at Aintree. We asked those from the city for their tips, tricks and secrets, that every racegoer should know about.
Thursday's NHS day will kick things off before the main race which will be held at 5:15pm on Saturday, April 9 - meaning there are three days of fun to be had. If you are heading to Aintree, we'd suggest giving our list a read to make sure your day runs as smoothly as possible.
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From what time you should arrive, to sneaky entrances and "hidden" bars, we've got you covered. Check out our full list of tips below.
1. Make sure you eat before you go
While the races is such a good day out, it is a long day and, with all the excitement of placing bets, forgetting to eat is common. Make sure you have a decent breakfast to set you up for the big day.
2. Arrive early
This is pretty self explanatory but the queues to get in can build up - not surprising, given how many people attend each day. The best way to avoid them is to get there early.
3. Be mindful of the minimum betting amount
There are different places you can bet on site, including with the Bookmakers and with the Tote. Minimum betting amount varies from £2 at the Tote - but some others have a minimum bet of £5.
4. Pre-book a restaurant
You'd think with the amount of restaurants in Liverpool, you'd be sure to get a table somewhere, but it does prove difficult after the races. Everyone has the same idea of getting the train into town after the last race, so you could end up competing with thousands of others also trying to get an on-the-day table.
Nothing puts a dip in the celebrations like walking around town starving.
5. Take vital supplies
You don't want to go to all that effort to have your plans spoilt by a wardrobe malfunction or a hair disaster. Make sure you take safety pins, hair clips, plasters and anything else you might need.
6. Buy your drinks by the bottle
Getting a bottle of wine will save you queuing up for single drinks. This tip came from Steph Cockwill, on Facebook, who said: "Buy a bottle of rose at the pink bars and carry it round in the bag provided, otherwise you'll be forever queuing up."
7. The Irish bar is key
For anyone with Tatterstall tickets, the Irish bar will be your saviour. It's where you'll probably bump into everyone you know - and it is a great place to go if it starts raining too.
8. Public transport is, too
When you're dressed up, the last thing you will probably want to do is get on public transport but, when it comes to Aintree, getting the train is really the easiest way to get to the racecourse. And it is by far the most popular option too. The station is directly opposite the racecourse, so the walk is minimal.
9. If you're in the Tatterstalls pick your speck to watch the main race early
As you can imagine, when it comes to Saturday's Grand National race everyone is desperate to get the best view and while those in the stands have a space sorted, those in the Tatterstalls will need to plan ahead as it's a free for all.
10. Use a sneaky entrance to avoid queues
While most people will be heading to the main entrance, racegoers can avoid the queues by using one of the lesser known entrances. There are eight altogether dotted around the racecourse, but we suggest heading to Melling Road entrance or The Station and Sefton Arms entrances on Ormskirk road.
11. You don't have to rush into town
While town is always booming over the Grand National Festival, there’s no atmosphere like the local Aintree pubs. Pubs such as The Queens are so close, in fact, that you can even hear the race announcements, making them the perfect place to head when the racecourse closes.
Also, some of the best moments will happen after the racing has finished and punters are spending their winnings. You'll also avoid the queues at the station as everyone rushes to get the train.
12. There's so much more to do than just watching the races
Putting on a bet and watching the races are all part and parcel of the Grand National, but it’s much more than that. Each day there are bands and artists playing on the course and even the trains and public transport can be turned into a party with the racing crowds.
This year Craig Charles will play a live DJ set on the Red Rum Lawn on Ladies Day
13. Download the app
Preparation is key and downloading the app before getting to the course can save you precious time. With the app, visitors can access a digital racecard, mobile ticketing and the chance to win prizes.
The race card provides live up-to-date information including the latest odds from 24 hours before racing so you can even pick your winners before you even arrive. The app also gives people the opportunity to win champagne or an upgrade to hospitality.
14. If it’s sunny head straight to the prime spots
If the weather is on our side and the sun starts to shine, be sure to head straight for the sun traps because they get chocker quickly. We suggest heading to Red Rum Garden or the steps by the Parade Ring, for a great atmosphere.
15. Enter the Ladies' Day Style Award
If you’re heading to the Grand National Festival on Friday for Ladies Day you could be in with a chance of winning a whole host of incredible prizes. You may as well enter as it's free - and you could win big.
This year's winner will receive £5,000 in cash, as well as an ultimate UK spa break staycation, a £500 Never Fully Dressed voucher and more. The competition is open to all, and you can enter until 2pm.
You just have to get your photo taken and enter your details onto the competition form. Winners will be announced at 3.45pm that day.
16. Never turn down a pair of flip flops
When you're dressed to the nines you might look down on a pair of flip flops to begin with, but you’ll be in need of a pair by the end of the day. Always accept a pair of flip flops, as those who are giving them out usually run out before the end of the day.
17. Take a look at the horses before they run
If you're not sure which horse to bet on, head over to the Parade Ring before placing to see which horse really looks ready to go out and win. Visitors can go down the traditional route with the bookmakers in one of the betting rings, try one of the on-site betting shops or test your luck on the Tote with totepool.
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