- Introduction: Planning Your Grand National 2026 Trip
- What Is the Randox Grand National?
- Grand National 2026 Dates & Festival Format
- Why the Grand National Is Such a Big Deal for Liverpool
- Why Choosing the Right Accommodation Matters
- Serviced Apartments vs Hotels for Race Weekend
- Why Liverpool City Centre Is the Best Place to Stay
- The Best Happy Days Apartment Locations for the Randox Grand National
- Concert Square Apartments – The Ultimate Party Base
- Sgt Peppers Apartments – Perfect for Groups
- Mathew Street Apartments – Iconic Liverpool Location
- Temple Court Cavern Quarter Apartments – Central & Social
- 16 Queen Avenue Apartments – A Premium Option
- Lord Street Apartments – Convenient & Central
- Monarchs Quay Apartments – Waterfront Stays
- Getting to Aintree Racecourse from the City Centre
- Nightlife & Dining Near Your Apartments
- Who Should Stay Where?
- Cost Comparison: Apartments vs Hotels
- Sample Grand National Weekend Itineraries
- Top Tips for Booking Grand National Accommodation
- Why Liverpool City Centre Is Better Than Staying Near Aintree
- How Groups Can Save Money on Grand National Accommodation
- Corporate & VIP Stays for the Randox Grand National
- Safety, Convenience & Self Check-In Benefits
- Making a Full Liverpool Weekend of the Grand National
- Grand National 2026 Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion: The Perfect Base for Grand National 2026
1. Introduction: Planning Your Grand National 2026 Trip
Every spring, Liverpool hosts one of the biggest and most famous sporting events in the world, the Randox Grand National.
For one electric weekend the city fills with racing fans, fashion lovers, and visitors from across the globe. Bars are packed, restaurants are buzzing, and the atmosphere in Liverpool city centre becomes truly unforgettable.
The Grand National 2026 will be no different.
But while planning outfits, tickets, and travel is exciting, one decision will shape your entire weekend:
Where should you stay in Liverpool for the Randox Grand National?
Accommodation is the single most important part of any Grand National trip. Hotels sell out months in advance, prices rise quickly, and large groups often struggle to find rooms together.
That’s why more and more racegoers are choosing serviced apartments in Liverpool city centre as the smart, practical, and cost-effective alternative.
This in-depth guide has been created by local accommodation specialists, Happy Days Serviced Apartments Liverpool to help you plan the perfect race weekend. Inside you’ll find:
- Everything you need to know about the event
- Why Liverpool becomes so busy
- The best areas to stay
- Why apartments beat hotels
- Detailed guides to our apartment locations
- Travel tips and local knowledge
Whether you’re planning a luxury couples break, a corporate trip, or a big friends’ getaway, this guide will help you find the perfect base for Grand National 2026.
👉 Explore all apartments here:
https://happydays.group
2. What Is the Randox Grand National?
The Grand National is the most famous horse race on the planet.
Held annually at Aintree Racecourse, just outside Liverpool, it attracts massive crowds and is watched by millions worldwide. Even people who never normally follow horse racing tune in for this one iconic event.
But the Grand National is far more than just a race.
It is a full three-day festival featuring:
- World-class jump racing
- Fashion and social events
- Corporate hospitality
- Huge group celebrations
- City-wide nightlife
For many visitors, attending the Randox Grand National Liverpool is as much about the atmosphere and experience as it is about the racing itself.
Official event information can be found here:
https://www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/aintree/
3. Grand National 2026 Dates & Format
The Grand National 2026 will follow the traditional three-day format at Aintree Racecourse:
- Thursday 9 April 2026 – Opening Day
- Friday 10 April 2026 – Ladies Day
- Saturday 11 April 2026 – Grand National Day
Each day offers a full card of racing along with entertainment, hospitality, and a unique atmosphere.
Most visitors plan their trip as a long weekend, arriving Thursday or Friday and staying until Sunday, which is why demand for accommodation Liverpool city centre becomes so intense.
If you’re travelling as a group, planning early is essential to secure the best apartments.
4. Why the Grand National Is Such a Big Deal For Liverpool
Few events have a bigger impact on Liverpool than the Randox Grand National.
During race weekend:
- Hotels operate at full capacity
- Bars and restaurants are packed
- Taxis are in huge demand
- The city centre becomes one giant celebration
Visitors arrive from:
- Across the UK
- Ireland
- Europe
- Around the world
For three days, Liverpool becomes a festival city.
Unlike many sporting events that finish and clear out, the Grand National spills into the nightlife and culture of the city itself. People don’t just attend the races, they turn the trip into a full social weekend.
That’s why choosing the right place to stay is so important.
5. Why Accommodation Matters on Grand National Weekend
Grand National weekend is unlike any normal city break.
Because the dates are fixed and demand is huge:
- Prices rise quickly
- Availability disappears months in advance
- Central locations sell out first
- Groups struggle to stay together
Many visitors leave accommodation planning too late and end up:
- Paying far more than necessary
- Staying far from the city centre
- Being split across multiple hotels
- Relying on expensive taxis
Planning ahead and choosing the right type of accommodation can make the difference between a stressful weekend and an unforgettable one.
6. Serviced Apartments vs Hotels for the Grand National
For years, hotels were the default choice for Grand National visitors. But as more people travel in groups, apartments have become the clear favourite.
The Problem with Hotels on Race Weekend
Hotels often create frustrations such as:
- Small rooms with no social space
- Groups split across different floors
- Strict check-in times
- Limited flexibility
- High event pricing
For a weekend that’s all about friends and celebrations, hotels rarely offer the right setup.
Why Serviced Apartments Are the Smarter Choice
Choosing serviced apartments Liverpool gives you:
- Space to stay together
- Living areas to socialise
- Better value per person
- Flexible check-in
- More relaxed, private accommodation
This is why searches like:
- party apartments Liverpool
- party apartments Liverpool city centre
- group accommodation Liverpool
all surge in the months before the Grand National.
Apartments are simply designed better for the way people actually enjoy this event.
7. Where to Stay in Liverpool for the Grand National
Although the races take place at Aintree, the best place to base yourself is almost always Liverpool city centre.
Here’s why:
- Trains run directly from central stations to Aintree
- Nightlife is focused in the city centre
- Restaurants and bars are all nearby
- You can walk home after nights out
Official travel guidance:
https://www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/the-grand-national/plan-your-day/travel/
Staying centrally lets you enjoy:
- Easy race-day transport
- Liverpool nightlife
- Daytime shopping and dining
- A full weekend experience
This is exactly why Happy Days Serviced Apartments are perfectly positioned for Grand National 2026.
8. Best Happy Days Apartment Locations for the Randox Grand National Liverpool
One of the biggest advantages of choosing Happy Days Serviced Apartments for Grand National 2026 is the range of locations available right in the Happy Days Serviced Apartments offer a wide range of properties across Liverpool city centre, each suited to different types of Grand National visitors.
Some guests want to be right in the middle of the party scene. Others prefer something quieter and more relaxed. Groups need space and flexibility, while couples may be looking for something more stylish and refined.
Below we break down the very best apartment options for Grand National 2026, helping you choose the perfect base for your weekend.
Our apartments are also popular with professionals, see our guide to business stays in Liverpool for more information.
9. Concert Square Apartments – The Ultimate Party Base
If your Grand National trip is all about big nights out with friends, Concert Square Apartments are the perfect choice.
Concert Square is Liverpool’s most famous nightlife district, and during Grand National weekend it becomes one of the busiest areas in the entire city.
Why Concert Square Is Ideal for Race Weekend
Staying here puts you:
- In the heart of the nightlife
- Surrounded by bars and clubs
- Walking distance from restaurants
- Close to transport links for Aintree
After a full day at the races, there’s no need for taxis or long journeys, you’re already exactly where the celebrations are happening.
These apartments are perfect for anyone searching for:
- party apartments Liverpool
- party apartments Liverpool city centre
- lively group accommodation
For big groups of friends wanting the full Grand National experience, Concert Square Apartments are hard to beat.
👉 View apartments:
https://happydays.group/concert-square-apartments/
10. Sgt Peppers Apartments – Great for Groups and Friends
Sgt Peppers Apartments are another fantastic option for groups attending the Randox Grand National Liverpool.
Located close to Mathew Street and Liverpool ONE, they offer the ideal balance of:
- Central convenience
- Comfortable living space
- Easy access to nightlife
- Simple transport routes
Why Groups Love Sgt Peppers Apartments
Grand National trips are usually about friends enjoying the weekend together, and these apartments deliver everything groups need:
- Space to stay together
- Room to get ready before heading out
- Shared living areas
- Better value than multiple hotel rooms
For visitors looking for group accommodation Liverpool, Sgt Peppers Apartments are a brilliant choice.
👉 View apartments:
https://happydays.group/sgt-peppers-apartments/
11. Mathew Street Apartments – Iconic Location, Perfect Atmosphere
If you want to stay somewhere that truly captures the spirit of Liverpool, Mathew Street Apartments are ideal.
Mathew Street is famous worldwide as the home of The Cavern Club and Liverpool’s music heritage. During Grand National weekend it becomes one of the liveliest streets in the city.
Why Mathew Street Works for Race Weekend
From these apartments you’ll enjoy:
- An unbeatable central location
- Easy access to bars and live music
- Quick routes to train stations
- A real Liverpool atmosphere
Mathew Street Apartments are perfect for groups who want the energy of the city right on their doorstep.
👉 View here:
https://happydays.group/mathew-street-apartments/
12. Temple Court Cavern Quarter Apartments – Central, Stylish & Social
For many Grand National visitors, Temple Court Cavern Quarter Apartments offer the perfect all-round option.
Situated right in the historic Cavern Quarter, these apartments combine:
- A prime city-centre location
- Modern, comfortable accommodation
- Fantastic access to nightlife
- Easy transport links
Why Temple Court Is Ideal for Grand National 2026
For many visitors, Temple Court Cavern Quarter Apartments provide the best all-round option for Grand National weekend.
Situated in the vibrant Cavern Quarter, these apartments offer:
- A prime city-centre base
- Modern, stylish interiors
- Fantastic nightlife access
- Easy travel to Aintree
Why Temple Court Is a Top Choice
This location works so well because:
- You’re seconds from Mathew Street
- Close to restaurants and bars
- Short walks to transport hubs
- Perfect for groups and friends
If you’re searching for apartments for Grand National weekend Liverpool, Temple Court Cavern Quarter Apartments are among the strongest options available.
👉 View apartments:
https://happydays.group/temple-court-apartments/
Explore why Temple Court Cavern Quarter Apartments are Liverpool’s ultimate choice for parties, celebrations & group stays in our ultimate guide highlighting the apartments.
13. 16 Queen Avenue Apartments – A More Premium Option
Not everyone attending the Grand National wants to be in the middle of the party districts.
For guests looking for something more relaxed and upmarket, 16 Queen Avenue Apartments are an excellent alternative.
Perfect for Couples and Corporate Visitors
These apartments provide:
- A quieter city-centre location
- Stylish, spacious accommodation
- Easy access to restaurants and shopping
- A more refined environment
For anyone looking for an apartment hotel Liverpool experience with a touch of luxury, Queen Avenue is ideal.
👉 View the apartment range:
https://happydays.group/queen-avenue-apartments/
14. Lord Street Apartments – Central and Convenient
Lord Street Apartments offer a great middle ground for Grand National visitors.
Located close to Liverpool ONE and major transport links, they provide:
- Central convenience
- Easy access to nightlife
- Comfortable, modern accommodation
- A practical base for race weekend
These apartments suit mixed groups who want to be close to everything without being right in the busiest party zones.
👉 View the apartments
https://happydays.group/lord-street-apartments/
15. Monarchs Quay Apartments – Waterfront Stays for a Quieter Weekend
While most Grand National visitors prefer the city centre, some guests like a more relaxed setting.
Monarchs Quay Apartments near the waterfront provide:
- A stylish modern environment
- Beautiful dockside surroundings
- Easy taxi or transport links to the city
- A calmer base away from the crowds
These apartments are ideal for:
- Couples
- Corporate groups
- Visitors staying longer than just the weekend
They offer a different pace while still keeping you connected to all the action.
👉 View the apartment options:
https://happydays.group/monarchs-quay-apartments/
16. Getting to Aintree Racecourse from Liverpool City Centre
One of the biggest advantages of staying centrally is how easy it is to reach the races.
Travel Options Include:
- Direct trains to Aintree Station
- Regular buses on race days
- Taxis and ride-shares
From any Happy Days apartment, reaching the racecourse is straightforward and stress-free.
Official travel information:
https://www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/the-grand-national/plan-your-day/travel/
17. Nightlife Near Your Apartments
After the final race, most visitors head straight back into Liverpool to continue the celebrations.
Depending on where you stay you’ll be close to:
- Concert Square bars and clubs
- Mathew Street live music venues
- Liverpool ONE restaurants
- Waterfront cocktail bars
Choosing the right apartment location means your entire weekend becomes easier and more enjoyable.
18. Who Should Stay Where?
Here’s a quick guide to choosing the right apartment:
Best for Big Party Groups
- Concert Square Apartments
- Temple Court Cavern Quarter Apartments
Best for Friends and Social Trips
- Sgt Peppers Apartments
- Mathew Street Apartments
Best for Couples and Quieter Stays
- 16 Queen Avenue Apartments
- Monarchs Quay Apartments
Best All-Rounders
- Lord Street Apartments
Choosing the right location makes a huge difference to your overall weekend experience.
19. Cost Comparison: Serviced Apartments vs Hotels for Grand National Weekend
One of the biggest reasons visitors choose apartments over hotels for the Randox Grand National Liverpool is simple: value.
Grand National weekend is one of the most expensive times of year for hotels in Liverpool. Demand is extremely high and prices increase accordingly.
Typical Hotel Issues During the Grand National
During race weekend, hotels often:
- Charge premium event rates
- Require two or three night minimum stays
- Split groups across multiple rooms
- Offer very limited social space
- Add extra costs for breakfast, parking, and late check-out
For groups of friends or families, this can quickly become both expensive and inconvenient.
Why Serviced Apartments Offer Better Value
By comparison, serviced apartments Liverpool provide:
- A single price for the whole apartment
- Space for multiple guests
- Full kitchens and living areas
- More flexibility
- Better cost per person
For example, a group of six friends booking hotel rooms might need three separate rooms. In an apartment, everyone can stay together for a fraction of the combined hotel price.
20. Sample Grand National 2026 Weekend Itineraries
To help you picture how your weekend could look, here are some example itineraries based around staying in Happy Days apartments.
Itinerary 1 – Friends Party Weekend
Best apartments:
Concert Square Apartments or Temple Court Cavern Quarter Apartments
Thursday
- Arrive in Liverpool and check in
- Dinner in Liverpool ONE
- Drinks around Mathew Street
Friday – Ladies Day
- Train to Aintree
- Evening celebrations in Concert Square
- Walk back to your apartment
Saturday – Grand National Day
- Races at Aintree
- Big night out with the group
Sunday
- Relaxed breakfast and departure
This is the classic Grand National weekend experience, and exactly why central apartments work so well.
Itinerary 2 – Couples Getaway
Best apartments:
16 Queen Avenue Apartments or Lord Street Apartments
Friday
- Check in and explore the waterfront
- Pre-race dinner
Saturday
- Day at Aintree
- Evening meal in the city centre
Sunday
- Shopping at Liverpool ONE
- Late checkout and relaxed journey home
This style of trip benefits from the comfort and space of an apartment hotel Liverpool experience.
Couples planning a different kind of getaway can also read our guide to romantic Valentine’s Day stays in Liverpool.
Itinerary 3 – Mixed Group Weekend
Best apartments:
Sgt Peppers Apartments or Mathew Street Apartments
Thursday–Sunday
- Combination of racing, dining, and nightlife
- Group-friendly accommodation
- Easy access to transport and attractions
Serviced apartments give everyone space to enjoy the weekend together.
21. Top Tips for Booking Grand National 2026 Accommodation
To make sure your trip runs smoothly, keep these tips in mind:
- Book as early as possible, demand is huge
- Choose a city-centre location for convenience
- Consider apartment size carefully for your group
- Check transport routes to Aintree
- Plan restaurants in advance
- Look for flexible check-in options
Happy Days Serviced Apartments Liverpool make all of this simple and stress-free.
22. Why Liverpool City Centre Is Better Than Staying Near Aintree
A common question we receive from first-time racegoers is:
“Should I stay near Aintree Racecourse instead of the city centre?”
It’s a logical thought – but in practice, staying close to the racecourse usually limits your weekend experience.
The Reality of Staying Near Aintree
Accommodation around Aintree tends to be:
- Limited in number
- Further from restaurants and nightlife
- Harder to get taxis back to after the races
- Much quieter in the evenings
- Less convenient for multi-day stays
Most visitors only spend a few hours each day at the racecourse. The rest of the weekend is spent enjoying Liverpool itself.
Why City-Centre Apartments Are the Smarter Choice
By staying in serviced apartments Liverpool city centre, you benefit from:
- Better transport links to Aintree
- Walking distance to bars and restaurants
- More accommodation choice
- A much livelier atmosphere
- Easier planning for groups
That’s why the vast majority of visitors attending Grand National 2026 choose to base themselves centrally rather than near the racecourse.
23. How Groups Can Save Money on Grand National Accommodation
One of the biggest advantages of apartments over hotels is how much money groups can save.
Realistic Example
Imagine a group of 10 friends attending the Randox Grand National Liverpool.
Hotel Booking
- 5 double rooms required
- Event pricing of £200+ per room per night
- Total cost: £1,000+ per night
- No shared space to relax
Apartment Booking
- One or two large apartments
- Shared living areas
- One total price split between the group
- Often 30–50% cheaper overall
This is why searches for:
- group accommodation Liverpool
- party apartments Liverpool
- party apartments Liverpool city centre
increase so dramatically before race weekend.
Apartments don’t just make the weekend more fun, they make it far more affordable.
24. Corporate & VIP Stays
The Grand National isn’t only a social occasion, it’s also one of the biggest corporate hospitality events in the UK.
Many businesses book trips for:
- Client entertainment
- Team rewards
- Networking events
- Corporate hospitality packages
For these guests, apartments such as:
- 16 Queen Avenue Apartments
- Lord Street Apartments
- Monarchs Quay Apartments
provide a professional, comfortable alternative to hotels.
With more space, privacy, and flexibility, serviced apartments are perfect for corporate visitors searching for an apartment hotel Liverpool experience.
25. Safety & Self Check-In
Another major advantage of Happy Days apartments is the ease and flexibility they offer on busy event weekends.
Why Self Check-In Works So Well
During the Grand National:
- Arrival times are unpredictable
- Taxis get delayed
- Trains run busy
- Plans often change
Self check-in apartments allow you to:
- Arrive at any time
- Avoid hotel reception queues
- Access your accommodation instantly
- Enjoy a private, stress-free experience
This convenience is especially valuable for large groups arriving at different times.
26. Making a Full Liverpool Weekend of the Grand National
While the racing is the main event, many visitors turn the trip into a complete Liverpool getaway.
From your city-centre apartment you can also enjoy:
- The Royal Albert Dock
- The Beatles Story
- Liverpool ONE shopping
- Tate Liverpool and museums
- Waterfront walks and sightseeing
Official city visitor information:
https://www.visitliverpool.com
Choosing central accommodation means your Grand National trip becomes more than just a day at the races, it becomes a true Liverpool experience.
27. Frequently Asked Questions About the Grand National 2026
When is the Grand National 2026?
The Randox Grand National 2026 will take place from Thursday 9 April to Saturday 11 April 2026, with the main race on Saturday 11 April.
Where is the best place to stay for the Grand National in Liverpool?
The best place to stay is Liverpool city centre, close to nightlife, restaurants, and transport links to Aintree Racecourse. Central apartments are more convenient than hotels outside the city.
Are apartments better than hotels for Grand National weekend?
Yes. Apartments offer more space, better value for groups, flexible check-in, and the ability to stay together – making them ideal for big event weekends.
Which Happy Days apartments are best for Grand National groups?
The top choices are:
- Concert Square Apartments
- Temple Court Cavern Quarter Apartments
- Sgt Peppers Apartments
- Mathew Street Apartments
These are perfect for party groups and friends travelling together.
How do I get to Aintree from Liverpool city centre?
The easiest way is by train from Liverpool Central or Moorfields stations directly to Aintree Station, which is right next to the racecourse.
Official travel info:
https://www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/the-grand-national/plan-your-day/travel/
When should I book accommodation for the Grand National?
As early as possible – ideally several months in advance. Central accommodation sells out quickly for Grand National 2026.
28. Conclusion: The Perfect Base for Grand National 2026
The Grand National 2026 promises to be another incredible weekend in Liverpool – full of excitement, fashion, celebrations, and unforgettable memories.
Where you choose to stay will shape the entire experience.
By choosing serviced apartments in Liverpool city centre, you benefit from:
- More space and comfort
- Better value for groups
- Flexible check-in
- Prime central locations
- Easy transport to Aintree
- Walking distance to nightlife
With fantastic options including:
- Concert Square Apartments
- Sgt Peppers Apartments
- Mathew Street Apartments
- Temple Court Cavern Quarter Apartments
- 16 Queen Avenue Apartments
- Lord Street Apartments
- Monarchs Quay Apartments
Happy Days Serviced Apartments Liverpool provide everything you need for the perfect race weekend.
Ready to Plan Your Grand National 2026 Trip?
Don’t leave your accommodation to the last minute. The best city-centre apartments always book up early.
👉 Browse availability and secure your stay today:
https://happydays.group
About the Author
This guide has been created by the team at Happy Days Serviced Apartments Liverpool, the local accommodation experts who have hosted thousands of guests for major Liverpool events including the Randox Grand National, football fixtures, concerts and festivals. Our knowledge comes from real guest experiences and years of helping visitors plan unforgettable stays in Liverpool City Centre.
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