Horse racing’s biggest spectacle returns each spring, and for many, each way betting on the Grand National is as traditional as picking a name from the sweepstake hat.
For newcomers and once-a-year punters, understanding what each way means is the key to unlocking a more entertaining, less all-or-nothing betting experience with 888sport.
Each Way Explained: Two Chances in One Bet
Each way betting isn’t just jargon—it’s a clever way to cover more ground in unpredictable races like the Grand National. Placing an each way bet means splitting your stake: half goes on your horse to win, and the other half on finishing in a top position, known as the each way places for the Grand National.
For example, a £5 each way bet at 9/1 odds costs £10 in total. If your horse wins, both parts pay out; if it just finishes in the top places, you still get a return—just at 1/4 of the win odds, which are the standard each way terms Grand National offers.
How Many Places Grand National Each Way: The Place Terms Decoded
The Grand National’s huge field means most bookmakers, including for the each way Grand National 2026 market, pay out if your horse finishes in the first four.
Sometimes, special promotions extend this to five, six, or even seven places, so check the each way terms before you bet. This makes the each way places Grand National more generous than smaller races, giving punters more reasons to stay invested right through to the famous run-in.
Calculating Returns: Using the Each Way Bet Calculator
Payouts on the place part are usually 1/4 of the win odds. For instance, with a £5 each way bet at 9/1, if your horse wins, you could see a return of £66.25 combining both win and place.
If your horse places but doesn’t win, the place part still offers a return at a fraction of the win odds, so you’re entertained even if your pick narrowly misses out. For accurate estimates, an each way bet calculator is your friend.
Is It Worth Going Each Way in the Grand National?
The best each way bets Grand National fans look for often lie with outsiders - horses with long odds but solid staying credentials. Each way betting suits the unpredictable nature of Aintree, as it spreads risk and gives you something to cheer for, even if your horse just sneaks into the places.
Still, remember your total outlay doubles, so a £10 each way bet costs £20. Factor this into your budget, and use responsible gambling tools to stick to your limits.
What Happens If Your Horse Doesn’t Finish?
The Grand National fences are legendary, but they’re also unforgiving. If your horse falls or fails to finish, both parts of your each way bet are settled as a loss. That’s the thrill—and the risk—and why it’s important to see betting as entertainment, not a source of income.
Grand National Each Way Betting FAQs:
What does each way mean in horse racing?
An each way bet covers two outcomes: your horse to win, and your horse to finish in a specified place (e.g., 1st to 4th in the Grand National).
How does each way betting work in the Grand National?
You’re placing two bets: one to win and one to place. If your horse is 1st, both win; if it’s placed (often 2nd, 3rd, or 4th), only the place part wins.
How many places are paid each way in the Grand National?
Typically four, but extra places may be available in some years or with certain bookmakers.
Is it worth betting each way in the Grand National?
Many punters think so, as it increases your chances of a return in a 34-runner field, especially if you fancy an outsider.
What fraction do you get for the place part of an each way bet?
Traditionally 1/4 the win odds for the Grand National.
How do I calculate my each way winnings?
Multiply your stake by the win odds for the win part, and by the place fraction for the place part. An each way bet calculator can help.
What is the difference between a win bet and an each way bet?
A win bet only pays if your horse finishes first; an each way bet pays if your horse wins or is placed.
Should I bet each way or to win in the Grand National?
Each way betting can suit those looking for more chances to win, but the doubled stake should be considered in your budget.
What happens to my each way bet if my horse falls?
Both the win and place parts are lost if your horse doesn’t finish.
BeGambleAware.org – Gambling should always be entertaining. Set limits, stay in control, and remember: when the fun stops, stop.
