The Grand National is one of the oldest horseracing events in the world, which is held over three days at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool, England. It is, however, the handicap steeplechase that is the crown jewel of the event, with millions of people across the world tuning in to watch the thoroughbred horses in action.
Of course, the fun doesn’t need to stop once the race day has come to an end, as there are many places to go and activities to enjoy in this beautiful city. If you are set to attend the Festival this year, you should read the following tips for what to do after the Grand National in Liverpool.
Explore the City’s Many Pubs
One thing Liverpool isn’t short on is the great British pub, as it offers 21 establishments in the city centre alone, which is why it has been deemed the pub capital of Great Britain. That’s reportedly four more pubs than Manchester city centre and much more than you can find in Edinburgh, Cardiff, Leeds, Newcastle, Birmingham, or Sheffield.
For a unique pub experience, you should look no further than the Philharmonic Dining Rooms. It is, after all, the only Grade I listed pub in the UK. In addition to offering impressive architecture and a wide selection of drinks, there are also the jaw-dropping men’s toilets, with interiors steeped in history. This needs to be seen to be believed.
To enjoy some traditional British pub food with draught beers, refreshing cask ales, or hand-pulled beers, check out the popular Ship & Mitre. If you are unconvinced about whether it is the right venue for you after a fun day of horse racing, it might help to know it was recently named one of the best craft ale pubs in the country. The ground floor of the public house is also unique, as it resembles the prow of a boat.
Another must-visit pub is The Baltic Fleet, which dates back to the mid-1800s, and it is an ideal choice if you love real ale. It is also the only pub in the city that features a brewery in the basement.
Visit a Casino
You will be spoiled for options when looking for casinos in Liverpool. They offer everything from slot machines to fun blackjack, roulette, and live poker games, such as Texas Holdem and Omaha hi-lo. For example, you can try your luck at the Grosvenor Casino Leo or Genting Casino.
You can rest assured you won’t look out of place at the glamorous venues, as you will be wearing your finest suit or a beautiful dress after an unforgettable day at the races. It does, however, pay to familiarise yourself with the poker rules to ensure you win big at the felt, which could be a perfect end to a perfect day.
Celebrate at a Superb Restaurant
If, however, you would rather play online poker over visiting a live casino, you could always enjoy dinner and relax with your friends after a day at the racecourse. You will likely have a rumbling stomach after many hours on your feet at the Grand National. Fortunately, Liverpool has a variety of exceptional restaurants to choose from and offers menus to match all tastes.
For example, to enjoy some fine dining with your friends, look no further than The Art School. You can choose from an exceptional array of dishes, such as pan-roast fillet of Peterhead Hake, olive oil mash, potted shrimp butter sauce, and monks beard, or Salt-aged confit of Cumbrian duck leg with slow-braised ‘coco de Paimpol’ beans, accompanied by a rich tomato, smoked pork and baby leaf spinach ragu.
Alternatively, you could dine in style at Panoramic 34, which is known for serving delicious dishes and tasty cocktails, as well as providing unparalleled views of the Liverpool skyline.
If, however, you want to enjoy scrumptious Pan Asian cuisine and stunning views of the River Mersey, book a table at Matou to choose from an array of dishes after a day of racing, such as crispy shredded beef, Yeung chow fried rice or stir-fried mixed vegetables, to name only a few.
Watch a Play or Musical
If you want to skip the pubs, clubs, or poker casinos and enjoy another activity once an exciting day of racing is over, book tickets to a play, musical, or comedy show at one of Liverpool’s many theatres.
For example, if you would like to catch a popular musical or a stand-up show from a world-famous comic, you would be smart to review the calendar at the Liverpool Empire. If, however, you want to watch a locally written and produced performance, the recently refurbished Royal Court Liverpool will not let you down.
The Liverpool Everyman Theatre and Playhouse Theatre are also worth considering. The sister theatres, which are both steeped in history, are dedicated to producing ground-breaking plays that tap into an audience’s imagination and offer stories that are guaranteed to remain in their minds once the curtains have closed.
Go to a Concert
To dance the night away outside of a nightclub, check the schedule at the M&S Bank Arena. The 11,000-seat venue regularly features live music from international musicians and bands, as well as superb comedy performances, and exciting sporting events. It is also located in Liverpool city centre, so you will be a stone’s throw away from the most beautiful hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, and attractions.
So, if you want to have some fun in the city after Ladies’ Day or the Grand National, you would be smart to consider the above activities, including playing Texas Holdem at a casino, stepping inside one of the city’s most historic pubs, or simply exploring the old, beautiful streets.