The first day of the Aintree Grand National Festival is always a curtain-raiser for the spring racing season, filled with excitement, tradition, and a sense of anticipation.
For those who see betting as entertainment and want to soak up the atmosphere, this guide covers the Grand National 2026 Thursday schedule, how to watch, and key things to know about Opening Day.
Track the drama, not just the odds - this is Day 1 where the Festival’s story begins.
Grand National 2026 Thursday Schedule: Race Times at Aintree
Curious about what races are on the Thursday at the Grand National meeting? The Aintree Thursday races 2026 serve up an all-star setlist. Here’s how the card unfolds on the Opening Day:
- 1:45pm: Boodles Anniversary 4-yo Juvenile Hurdle (Grade 1)
- 2:20pm: EBC Group Manifesto Novices’ Steeple Chase (Grade 1)
- 2:55pm: Brooklands Golden Miller Chronograph Bowl Steeple Chase (Grade 1)
- 3:30pm: Randox Foxhunters’ Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase
- 4:05pm: William Hill Aintree Hurdle (Grade 1) – the Grand National Thursday feature race
- 4:40pm: Close Brothers Red Rum Handicap Steeple Chase
- 5:15pm: Goffs Nickel Coin Mares’ Standard Open NH Flat Race
How to Watch Aintree Opening Day 2026
The thrill of the Aintree opening day 2026 doesn’t stop at the track. All the action from the Grand National Day 1 schedule is broadcast live on ITV and Racing TV, with streaming available via the ITV Hub and Racing TV’s online service for subscribers.
Whether you’re at home or on the go, you can experience the full drama of the Festival’s first day.
Making the Most of Your Grand National Thursday
With a packed line-up, it’s easy to get caught up in the spectacle. Take it slow - set yourself a budget before the first flag falls and remember, the best play is the one that keeps things fun.
The Aintree Thursday races 2026 include some of the season’s most competitive fields, but part of the entertainment comes from simply watching the stories unfold.
Grand National Thursday Tips: Enjoy the Festival Safely
If you’re joining the action with a flutter, stay mindful: use session reminders, take regular breaks, and treat every stake as part of your entertainment spend.
The Grand National opening day races mark just the beginning of a three-day festival—there’s plenty of time to enjoy responsibly.
What Makes Aintree Opening Day Special?
Day 1 of the Aintree Grand National Festival is more than just a warm-up. With four Grade 1s, including the headline William Hill Aintree Hurdle, legends are made and new stories begin.
Seasoned punters and casual fans alike circle this Thursday as a date when anything can happen—will this be the year an underdog writes their name into Festival folklore?
More News & Tips On The Aintree Grand National Festival:
- Grand National Prize Money Breakdown For 2026
- Race Schedule and Race Times for the 2026 Grand National Festival
- How to bet each way on the Grand National
- The biggest priced winners of the Grand National
- The most successful jockeys in Grand National history
- The most successful trainers in Grand National history
Safer Gambling: Gambling should always be fun and never viewed as a way to make money. Set limits for deposits and play time. For advice or help, visit www.begambleaware.org or contact the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133.
