Grand National Betting: The Ultimate Guide

The National Hunt race that everyone in the nation looks forward to year on year, is played out at the Aintree Racecourse in Merseyside. This Grand National betting guide will provide you with the ultimate look at the historic race. We will delve into betting offers, promotions, odds, and other things related to choosing the best bookies. What’s more, we will also look at stats, facts, and the history of the race, in order to give you the best insight possible.

The following sections are rammed to the rafters with information, you can gallop on through to your preferred section by clicking on the menu above, or you can canter along at a slow pace and read all the information below. We’d recommend doing the latter for you to have the best understanding of the race, and to be able to bet with confidence.

Betting on the Grand National: The Best Operators

Often times it is hard to choose the best sites for betting on the Grand National. That’s why we have endeavoured to do the work for you. Below you will find our listing of the top 5 sites to place a punt. How did we reach this conclusion, you may ask? Well, carry on reading and you will find our list of stringent criteria used in the process.

How we Chose the Best Bookmakers for the Grand National

There are a number of factors that go into determining the top Grand National betting sites. In the box below you will find the top four factors our experts look out for when logging on to place a bet. If they fare well here, then you will be sure they rank highly with us.

Our top bookmakers meet the following criteria:

• 1. A high level of payouts and therefore great profit potential.
• 2. Fantastic promotions that are solely dedicated to the Grand National.
• 3. The schedule of the streaming and race coverage.
• 4. Number of pre-race markets and betting options on the platform.

As you see, things like payouts, promotions, streaming services and types of markets available all are listed. Of course, not every site with do well in each category, even so they remain important. Carry on reading to find out why they are.

The Importance of Payouts

One of the first things we assess when looking at Grand National bookmakers is the payout on offer. This is important as you don’t want to be left with lower winnings than you expect. In essence, the higher payout percentage, the more you win. You can see how we calculated these levels on our home page, and you’ll see it’s an intricate equation. We did the maths for you, and you’ll see the results below. You’ll notice there isn’t much variation, and these are the expected levels from all the top bookies.

Best Grand National Betting Offers

Another thing we look at are specific Grand National betting offers. Of course, you will find many welcome bonuses, but we are talking about promotions related to the race. These won’t be on offer year-round, instead you are likely to find them in the weeks and months leading up to the big day. Many times you’ll see things like enhanced odds, or each-way being paid up to six places. The best operators with have a plethora of offers for you to choose from.

Live Streaming

When talking about horse racing, live betting is not generally available. This is due rules and regulations regarding fixing. However, most bookies do offer some live streaming, and this is often times the forte of the sport. It is great to watch the horses run round the track and you cheer them on as they cross the line for a big win. The very best sites will ultimately have streams and commentary broadcast for the Grand National, so be careful to make sure the site you choose does show it!

Number of Markets Available

If you are looking at betting on the horses there are numerous markets and bet types available. From the simple to the exotic. In the following paragraphs we will be going into detail on some of these, for more information our dedicated horse racing page will point you in the right direction.

The Type of Grand National Markets

When it comes to Grand National betting, many punters are first-timers or those who only play once a year. That’s why there is a proliferation of simple or so-called ‘straight’ bets. These are easy to understand and perfect for the average fan. Other ‘exotic’ bets are also part of an experience punter’s repertoire and we’ll be discussing them further down.

Straight Bets

Straight bets are the easiest type of wager that you can play. They are often suited to beginners or those casual fans that only bet once a year. They often require very little skill, and you have less liability. This means, for many it is the best way to have a punt, whilst enjoying the experience of the Grand National.

The Win Bet

This bet is exactly what is says. You bet on a horse to win, if it does you win too. In other words, you choose from the starting list of horses your predicted winner. You can base this prediction on form, the ground it’s running on, or simply from the name you like! It truly is a simple wager and is one of the most popular.

The Place Bet

Another easy bet to get into is the place bet. Here you are saying that your selected horse will finish in either first or second position. This bet is a good one for one of the favourite’s and gives you a bit of leeway if they don’t ultimately win outright. Obviously, the payout you receive here will be lower than the aforementioned win bet.

The Each-Way Bet

When it comes to horse racing, this is the most popular bet for punters. It’s a bet made up of the two above. Basically, you bet on a horse to win, and to place. You see a return if a horse wins or places. The places can vary from bookie to bookie, but usually, they are from position 1,2,3,4. On some occasion, bookies even offer to place 6! Your liability is doubled, as you are essentially making two bets, but it insurance of the places is what makes it an attractive type of bet for many punters.

Exotic Bets on the Grand National

The other type of wager that many punters use when betting on the Grand National are the so called ‘exotic bets’. These are generally used by those who know a lot about horse racing and betting in general. They require a clear strategy and can be rewarding with huge profits, but be aware, they can also require a big liability.

The Tricast Bet

In this bet you have to select which horses will finish in position first, second, and third. You must predict the exact order, so it is not an easy bet to win, however, as you would expect the rewards are very handsome. It also requires knowledge on the field and which horses are expected to perform well. It has become one of the staples of horse racing betting and every punter loves to have a go on this type of bet. It is very easy to place and after a few tries, you will be better at it.

The Forecast Bet

This is the simplest of the exotic bets, as all you need to do is predict the top two horses. The ones that will finish in first and second position in the exact order. You can win a decent amount here and doesn’t require as much luck as the tricast bet. Obviously, you still need a fair amount of luck for them both come in though. It is a great introduction to the exotic wagers and allows you to find your way around this type of gambling.

Superfecta Bet

This is the bet that will win you the most money, yet it is notoriously difficult to win. It is an extension of the forecast, and the tricast, as you have to choose the top four horses in correct order. First, second, third, and fourth. The combined odds will be massive, and so will the payout. However, it is one that hardly ever comes in. This is a bet that you don’t expect to get right very often, but when you do, it will be amazing!

All you Need to Know about the Grand National

Grand National Info
Nome:	The Grand National
Headquarters:	Aintree
Year of foundation:	1839
Sponsor:	Randox Health
Website:	Grand National
Race Type:	Steeplechase
Surface:	Turf
Prize Money:	£1,000,000

The Grand National is a historic event that everyone in the UK knows about. It is a National Hunt race held annually at the Aintree Racecourse, not far from Liverpool. It was first held in 1839 and has developed into one of the most famous horse races in the world. With a burgeoning prize fund of £1 million, it attracts all the best runners from the UK, Ireland, and even some international horses. The amazing thing about the National is that it has developed to become part of British culture and many bet on the race even if they aren’t regular gamblers.

The race distance is about 4 miles and 2 1/2 furlongs, with the horses having to jump 30 fences over two laps, meaning only the strongest stayers can win. It has always been shown on free television in the UK, being covered by the BBC, Channel 4, and ITV over different time periods. The race has also had many different sponsors throughout its history, with it currently being Randox Health. The crowds flock to fill the stands and often it is a raucous occasion. It is the premier event of the calendar and will remain that way.

The race always takes place on the first Saturday in April and has is often the most anticipated race of the year. Unlike other horse races, it is highly anticipated and gathers interest from all corners of the globe. Horses can achieve infamy, and as a result, every trainer wants to win here. It’s a notoriously difficult race, and accidents happen. So sometimes an upset can occur.

A YouTube Channel of the Grand National

• Great odds on offer
• Live streaming available
• Top Grand National markets

Visit Site!

All the Info on the Horses of the Grand National

Now we come to the section you’ve all be waiting for. We will be providing you with lots of interesting information about horses, trainers, and jockeys from both past and present. This will then allow you to become informed on the race and move forward with a better understanding as a whole.

The Past 5 Placed Winners

The most famous champion of previous years is Tiger Roll, who won two in a row from 2018 and 2019. As you see from the list below, this is a rare occurrence! So rare the last time it happened was the 1970’s and online betting sites didn’t even exist!

Who are the Best Trainers?

Many legendary horses come with top trainers. Some have won multiple wins, with George Dockeray, Fred Rimell, and Ginger McCain all having four winners. In recent years Gordon Elliott has become the main man. It often pays to pay attention to who trained a horse, or from which stable they came from as this could directly correlate with who will win. It wouldn’t surprise us if Elliott produces another winner in the coming years.

The Best Horses of Grand National

So that leads us to the most important question, who are the best horses? Well the top horse is undoubtedly Tiger Roll. His performance under pressure has been phenomenal. Check out the boxes below to find the other contenders and potential usurpers to his throne.

Legends of the Past

The Grand National is littered with legendary names and horses. Perhaps the most famous is Red Rum, who dominated the race in the 1970’s. Winning in 1973, 1974, and in 1977. Other legends include Manifest who ran an incredible eight races. Others such as jockey Michael Scudamore rode a fantastic 16 consecutive races between 1951-66, winning once. There are many stories and legends and that is the most endearing thing about the race.

The Horses with the most Wins

Nowadays, with big fields and better trained horses it is difficult for repeat winners to rear their head. Nevertheless, there have been some stand out names. In the table below we list all the horses that have won the most races. Red Rum stands alone atop of the list, but Tiger Roll is trying his best to catch him.

Grand National Records

The Grand National is hundreds of years old, and with it comes many records. Below you will find all of the best records for the race. You may be surprised at who the quickest was! So what are you waiting for? Have a look now!

History of the Grand National and Betting

The history of the Grand National and its relationship with betting is intertwined. Starting in 1839 the race has developed to become a mainstay of British culture. Every year punters throw millions upon millions of pounds onto the race. In 1993 the race was cancelled after two false starts and chaos that ensued. It was the darkest day in the sports history and resulted in millions of void bets. Nevertheless, this did not stop it from remaining at the heart of the UK, with many people only betting once a year, and on this race. All in all around £250 million gets spent by punters on the big race every year. A staggering amount.

Discover the best bookies for the Grand National

Grand National and Bookmakers Sponsorship

Due to its proximity with gambling there have been many sponsorships of Grand National betting sites for the race. Although never a main sponsor, Betway, for example are the official betting partner for the race. Such deals are often in place, and when you are watching on television you will be sure to see many different operators featured in many different ways. Whether it is advertising boarding, to badges on coats and so on.

Which Bookies Should You Avoid?

With such a famous race, comes the opportunity for many to offer you the chance to bet on it. It’s integral that you avoid certain bookies. On our site we only feature those that are fully regulated by the UK Gambling Commission. If you find an operator that is not so, we’d recommend keeping well away from them. Check out our best betting sites list for all the top trusted operators. There’s no point in playing on a site and winning if you never see the money! That’s why we say stick with us and your Grand National betting needs will be sufficed.

Facts and Anecdotes about Betting on the Grand National

Now we are coming to the end of our review about betting on the Grand National, we thought we’d provide you with some fun facts about big wins, and money spend on the race. This light-hearted conclusion can provide you with inspiration in the future! Check the boxes below.

Tiger Roll is an amazing horse, and much better this year than last year. He is the most gorgeous little horse and a joy to watch over these fences.

Jessica Harrington

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FAQ

Now we have come to the end of our review, we hope to have answered all your questions. If not, please read our FAQ below or feel free to send us an email. at info@bestbettingsites.com.

Can I live stream horse racing events?

Yes. It depends on the operator, of course. However, horse racing events are some of the best covered streaming options available at online operators.

Where can I find Grand National bonuses?

We'd advise waiting until the run-up to the event, where you will then be sure to find dedicated offers relating to the race. These often appear on the homepage of the operator, or in the horse racing section.