Racegoers are being encouraged to plan ahead and follow our travel tips as the Liverpool City Region prepares to welcome thousands of visitors to the Grand National Festival, running 9-11 April.

With the festival set to bring a fantastic atmosphere across the region, extra rail and bus services will be in place to help ensure smooth, reliable journeys to and from Aintree. Staff will be positioned at key locations throughout the event to support passengers and help keep crowds moving.

This year will also be the first-time that festival‑goers can use the new Tap & Go smart ticketing system across the Merseyrail network, offering a simple tap‑in, tap‑out option for anyone travelling with a contactless card or device.

As always, the Liverpool City Region looks forward to welcoming racegoers from near and far and helping everyone enjoy one of the most celebrated events in our calendar.

A Liverpool City Region Combined Authority spokesperson, said:

“The Grand National Festival is always one of the biggest events in our calendar, attracting visitors from across the world, and we want everyone to travel with confidence to make sure they don’t miss starter’s orders.

“With extra staff, enhanced services and the new Tap & Go system now available, it’s never been easier for people to get to Aintree safely and conveniently.

“We encourage everyone to plan ahead, leave plenty of time and enjoy their day. By following our advice, you’ll be getting your day off to a winning start before the first race is even underway.”

You can find our full travel advice on the Merseytravel website.

Top travel tips for racegoers

• If you live nearby, walk or cycle to the event if you can
• Use public transport wherever possible – roads leading to and around the course will be busy and parking very limited
• Make sure you check routes and plan ahead
• Consider your options – services will be busy so plan your options
• Check operator websites and social media channels for up-to-date timetables
• Be prepared for last minute changes to services
• Allow extra time for your journeys – services will be much busier than usual
• Buy tickets in advance if possible
• Be kind to transport staff – they will be working hard to get you there and back

Find out more here.