Grand National Odds December 2025: The Comprehensive UK Guide

The Grand National stands as the world’s most famous steeplechase, a grueling 4-mile-2.5-furlong handicap race over 30 fixed fences at Aintree Racecourse near Liverpool, England. First officially run in 1839 with Lottery as the inaugural winner, it draws global attention during the three-day Grand National Festival in early April, attracting around 600,000 visitors annually. The event offers a £ 1 million prize pot amid debates over welfare reforms.​

At BestOdds, this Grand National odds guide is designed to provide readers with everything to know about how to maximise betting value for this grand spectacle and how to enhance their betting sessions further in a positive manner.

About BestOdds.com & Editorial Integrity

The betting experts at BestOdds are avid Grand National bettors and are always on the lookout for the best Grand National odds. The team continues to adopt the strict methodology outlined by BestOdds to ensure editorial integrity and build trust and confidence in everything that is provided on the site.

Essential Grand National Betting Markets Explained

Grand National betting is a hugely popular pastime for British bettors, with many placing a wager on who they think will win the big race. Many experienced bettors will often look to get involved, as do those who place a bet once a year.

To ensure bettors find the best possible value regarding Grand National odds, BestOdds’ team of experts have highlighted the following essential markets:

Win Market

The Win market involves selecting a single horse to cross the finish line first after navigating all 30 fences, with payouts based on the starting price odds multiplied by the stake plus the stake returned. Favourites rarely dominate due to the race’s unpredictability, with only about 40% of fields finishing. This makes value bets on double-digit outsiders common.

Each-Way Market

Each-Way splits the stake equally into Win and Place bets, paying full odds for a win and a fraction (typically 1/4 or 1/5) for top 4-6 finishes, depending on bookmaker promotions tailored to the big field. Enhanced terms often extend places to 5th or 6th, ideal for outsiders likely to survive but unlikely to win. A £10 each-way at 20/1 costs £20 total, returning £250+ if victorious or £50+ for a place.​

Place Market

Place bets payout only if the horse finishes in the top positions (usually 1st-4th), at reduced odds without needing a win, suiting conservative strategies in a race where attrition claims half the field. Terms vary by bookie, with some offering extra places during the festival. This market rewards stamina over speed in the grueling conditions.​

Forecast Market

Forecast (Exacta) requires picking the first two horses in exact finishing order, with boxed versions allowing either order at double the stake for flexibility. High odds compensate for pinpoint accuracy amid falls and chaos, thriving on strong form pairs like past Aintree performers.

Without the Favourite Market

The Without the Favourite market excludes the market leader, betting on the winner from the remaining field at often shorter odds since the favourite’s weight and pressure skew dynamics. It appeals when topweights underperform historically, as seen in recent Nationals.

History of the Grand National

Few sporting events in the UK have a betting heritage as deep or as widely shared as the Grand National. Long before online bookmakers, price boosts, and mobile apps, Aintree’s spring showpiece was already a national talking point because it combined three things that naturally drive wagering interest: a huge field, a distinctive set of fences that can punish even the best jumpers, and an atmosphere that feels bigger than ordinary sport. The Grand National’s roots stretch back to the early Victorian era, with the official record recognising the first properly organised running at Aintree in 1839, staged as the Grand Liverpool Steeplechase. It was reported as a “National” event at the time, and it emerged from a period where earlier runnings in 1836 to 1838 existed in disputed form, with historians still debating how they should be treated in the record books. What is clear is that 1839 marked the moment the race began to look like the Grand National the public would come to recognise: a flagship steeplechase run at Aintree, under stronger organisation, and with a growing audience fuelled by improved travel links into Liverpool.

As the nineteenth century progressed, the race’s identity hardened into something uniquely British: a long, punishing test where stamina, jumping, and composure mattered as much as raw speed. The Grand National also evolved structurally, becoming a handicap in 1843, a shift that helped cement its appeal to bettors by making the contest feel more “open” on paper and creating the possibility of outsiders upsetting better-fancied rivals. Not long after, the event began to be widely known by the name we use today, with the “Grand National” label taking hold in the mid-1800s as the race’s reputation expanded beyond Merseyside and into the national imagination. From there, the narrative that still defines Grand National odds today was born: no matter how strong the favourite looks, the course, the fences, and the sheer length of the race make certainty elusive. That blend of prestige and unpredictability is why the National became a once-a-year ritual for casual punters, while also remaining a serious target for form students who track staying chasers all season.

Across the twentieth century, the Grand National’s status grew alongside mass media and Britain’s broader betting culture. Even people who rarely followed jump racing knew the race’s headline facts, its famous obstacles, and the idea that “anything can happen” at Aintree. That public familiarity mattered, because it turned the National into an event where betting was as much social tradition as it was sport, with office sweepstakes and family picks sitting alongside more analytical approaches. The race’s mythology was repeatedly reinforced by moments that became part of British sporting folklore. In 1956, Devon Loch’s inexplicable fall on the run-in, just yards from the line, became one of the most replayed Grand National clips of all time and a reminder that even a winning position can be fragile at Aintree. In 1967, 100/1 outsider Foinavon won after chaos at one of the fences reshaped the race in seconds, a result that has echoed through betting culture for decades whenever punters look for a “big priced” story. And in the 1970s, Red Rum turned the National into a legend-making stage by achieving an unmatched treble of wins in 1973, 1974 and 1977, while also finishing second in 1975 and 1976, a record that still frames how bettors think about repeat contenders and course specialists.

Those defining stories helped shape the way Grand National odds are discussed and consumed. Unlike many races where the market can feel dominated by a small group of obvious contenders, the National tends to produce a layered betting landscape: favourites that attract attention because they look “classier” than the field, a wide band of mid-range prices where many punters hunt for value, and a long tail of outsiders that still get backed because history has taught everyone that the extraordinary can happen. As UK betting expanded, the Grand National became a showcase for different wagering styles, from straightforward win bets to each-way strategies designed to cope with the race’s volatility, and later to more specialised angles that reflect how punters actually watch the race. This is one of the reasons the National has remained so commercially powerful for bookmakers, because it naturally supports a broad menu of markets and encourages price shopping across firms, especially when each-way terms differ and promotions intensify in the build-up.

Modern history has also added its own chapters, often highlighting how difficult it can be to stage a mass-participation sporting event at this scale. In 1993, the Grand National was declared void after a false start, creating the notorious “race that never was” and underlining that even the administration of such a huge event can go wrong. In 1997, an IRA bomb threat forced Aintree to evacuate and the race was postponed by two days, eventually being run on the Monday, a rare disruption that still stands out in the race’s timeline. More recently, the pandemic era reshaped the calendar entirely: the 2020 Grand National Festival was cancelled due to COVID-19 control measures, and when the event returned in 2021 it took place behind closed doors for the first time in its history, showing how even a near-immovable institution can be affected by wider national events.

All of this history matters for a modern “Grand National odds” guide because it explains why the betting market around Aintree behaves differently to almost any other UK race. The National is not simply a sporting contest that happens to attract wagers. It is a cultural event where public money, professional opinion, and narrative-driven betting all collide, producing a market that is deep, fast-moving, and highly sensitive to new information. In the digital era, that sensitivity has only increased. Where once punters might place a bet days in advance and hope for the best, today’s Grand National betting environment is shaped by constant updates: declarations, ground changes, non-runners, trainer comments, and the steady churn of prices across multiple UKGC-licensed operators. The result is that the race’s historic core remains intact, a marathon chase where chaos can rewrite the script, but the way people engage with it has evolved into something more immediate and more competitive. The same unpredictability that made the Grand National famous in the first place is exactly what keeps it at the centre of British betting every spring, and why, year after year, it continues to feel like the one race where everyone believes they might just find the right price.

How BestOdds Tests & Rates Grand National Bookmakers

A strict methodology is used by BestOdds’ team of experts when analysing Grand National bookmakers and the odds being offered. It helps build trust with readers, as each test and review of a bookie is based on the same criteria, ensuring a genuine comparison without bias.

During the examination of a site, BestOdds considers the following aspects:

• Odds offered: Are the Grand National odds offered the best in the industry? Do they compete with other bookmakers? Do they leave value on the table compared to other options?
• Markets available: What markets can be found at the bookie? Are they offered elsewhere? Do they cover the basic bets? Can you enjoy niche markets with this bookie?
• Withdrawal speeds: How fast is it to withdraw funds from the bookmaker? What options are offered? How long do KYC checks take to make the first withdrawal?
• Bonuses: Does the bookie offer a good selection of horse racing promotions and bonuses? Can you use promos on the Grand National? Are BOG offers available? Enhanced odds? Extra places?
• Customer service: Is the customer service on offer positive? Do they answer questions quickly and professionally? What options are available to use?
• Responsible Gambling tools: Do punters have access to tools to help them play safely? What tools can be used?

BestOdds will only ever recommend and review bookmakers that hold an active UK Gambling Commission licence, as British bettors can enjoy a safe and fair gambling session.

Step-by-Step Guide to Starting Grand National Betting

BestOdds continues to aim to provide a complete betting experience to readers to ensure a positive experience can be enjoyed with this entertainment form. This includes helping bettors get signed up and start wagering on horse racing in the easiest and quickest way possible.

The following steps should be followed:

1. Step 1 – Select a UKGC-licensed sportsbook using one of those recommended by BestOdds.

2. Step 2 – Complete the registration process.

3. Step 3 – Verify your identity if this isn’t completed automatically.

4. Step 4 – Claim a horse racing bonus if one is offered.
5. Step 5 – Make a deposit using a method that is accepted.

6. Step 6 – Head over to the horse racing section and look for the Grand National odds.

7. Step 7 – Select the odds and markets that appear to offer value and add them to the betting slip. Confirm the stake and then confirm the bet. Use cash out features (if available) to manage the bet if required.

Key Tips for New Horse Racing Grand National Bettors

The Grand National is a unique race that requires bettors to adopt specific strategies to maximise their returns. When looking for the best Grand National odds, BestOdds advises punters to consider the following:

Study Fence Form Closely

Examine each horse’s jumping history over big obstacles, prioritising past performances at Aintree or similar tracks such as Punchestown. Review recent chase form for stamina over 4 miles, noting weights, with top-rated horses carrying up to 11st 12lb; this often hinders speed. Ignore unproven novices; proven veterans with multiple fence wins offer reliability in this endurance test.​

Leverage Each-Way Value

Opt for Each-Way bets with extended place terms (top 5-6 or more), as only about half the field finishes, making places lucrative for 20/1+ outsiders like recent winners. Compare promotions across bookies for 1/4 or 1/5 odds on places, doubling stakes effectively while hedging against non-finishers.

Assess Handicap Weights

Handicap ratings dictate burdens, so favour lightly raced improvers or those dropping in class over penalised past performers burdened by 12st+. Recent trends show mid-division weights (10st 8lb – 11st) winning more than extremes. Cross-check trainer comments on fitness post-winter.

Watch Pre-Race Trials

Track key trials like the Midlands National or the Topham Chase for form indicators, as runners who place there often contend at Aintree; horses skipping them face unknowns. Monitor declarations and non-runners, as reduced fields boost survivor chances; bet ante-post only on shortlists. Ground preferences matter too, with soft favouring grinders.​

Bet Responsibly

Cap stakes at 1-2% of bankroll per race, logging results to avoid chasing amid variance. Favourites win this race just 10% of the time historically. Shop odds on exchanges for liquidity, eyeing specials like without-favourite markets when leaders underperform.

Responsible Gambling for Horse Racing Bettors

Betting on horse racing events like the Grand National requires discipline. Given the race format, many can place bets throughout the race, especially if the horse they initially backed pulls up or falls. In addition, the Grand National sees many other races during the festival, which can capture a lot of attention and tempt bettors to place wagers.

Bettors must avoid chasing losses, as this can lead to financial hardship. Sticking to budgets and setting small stakes are highly recommended. Staying as emotionless as possible is also strongly advised. BestOdds also strongly advocates the use of responsible gambling tools when betting on horse racing, especially when Grand National odds can be competitive.

Use tools such as reality checks, self-exclusion options, and deposit limits to manage and maintain betting discipline. Use services such as GamStop, GameCare, and GambleAware if independent help and advice is required, should betting become troublesome.

Main Takeaways

The Grand National is one of the biggest races on the British sporting calendar, with many placing bets because of the Grand National odds. It takes place once a year in April and attracts casual bettors along with experienced horse racing bettors.

Odds can be competitive due to the large field that contests this race. This can make it harder to accurately predict who wins, as can the jumps that need to be navigated. BestOdds stresses to readers the importance of betting responsibly on this race, as it can be very easy to be tempted to chase losses or place ill-advised bets.

TL;DR:

• Grand National odds can be highly competitive as the biggest race of the British horse racing season
• Large field contests this race, making it difficult to make successful predictions
• Consider markets that offer a “safer” bet
• Only use a BestOdds-recommended UKGC-licensed bookmaker
• Responsible gambling must be adopted at all times

FAQs

What is the Grand National?
The Grand National is the world’s most famous steeplechase, a 4-mile-2.5-furlong handicap race over 30 fixed fences at Aintree Racecourse near Liverpool. It forms part of the three-day Grand National Festival in early April, drawing around 600,000 visitors annually.

How does Each-Way betting work?
Each-Way splits stake equally into Win and Place bets, paying full odds for a win and a fraction (1/4 or 1/5) for top 4-6 finishes, often extended during the event.

What is a Place bet?
Place bets payout if the horse finishes in top positions like 1st-4th at reduced odds, suiting strategies in a race where half the field often fails to finish.

How does BestOdds rate Grand National bookmakers?
They evaluate odds competitiveness, market variety, bonuses, withdrawal speeds, customer service, and responsible gambling tools using a strict methodology.

Why choose UKGC-licensed bookmakers?
UKGC-licensed sites ensure fair play, player protection, and access to safety tools for British bettors.

How to start Grand National betting?
Select a recommended UKGC-licensed site, register, verify identity, claim bonuses, deposit, find odds in horse racing, and place bets with cash-out options.

What tips for studying horses?
Prioritise jumping history over big fences, stamina in long chases, and past Aintree form, avoiding unproven novices.

Why leverage Each-Way value?
Each-Way with extra places (top 5-6) hedges against non-finishers, lucrative for 20/1+ outsiders in large fields.

How many horses run in the Grand National?
The maximum field is typically 40 runners, which is a major reason the market is so deep and the race is so unpredictable.

How long is the Grand National and why does it matter for betting?
At over four miles, it is an extreme stamina test, so bettors often favour proven stayers who finish strongly rather than speed-focused types.

What does “handicap” mean in the Grand National?
As a handicap, horses carry different weights based on official ratings to create a more competitive contest, which can make prices more attractive beyond the favourites.

What is a non-runner and what happens to my bet?
A non-runner is a horse declared but not taking part. Depending on the bookmaker and whether “non-runner no bet” applies, stakes may be refunded or Rule 4 deductions may apply.

What is Non-Runner No Bet for the Grand National?
Non-Runner No Bet usually means your stake is returned if your selection does not run, which is useful for early betting when final declarations are not confirmed.

What is a Rule 4 deduction?
Rule 4 is a reduction applied to winnings if a horse is withdrawn close to the race, reflecting how the market shortens for remaining runners.

What is a dead heat in horse racing?
A dead heat is when two or more horses tie for a finishing position, and returns are typically split proportionally based on how many share the spot.

What is the Forecast market?
A Forecast (Exacta) is picking the first two horses in the correct order, offering bigger potential returns than win/place but with higher difficulty.

What is a Tricast bet?
A Tricast requires predicting the first three finishers in exact order, making it a high-risk, high-reward option in a race like the Grand National.

What is “Top Jockey” or “Top Trainer” betting?
These festival markets back the jockey or trainer to record the most winners across the meeting, adding a broader angle than selecting a single Grand National runner.

What is a “to finish” or “to complete the course” bet?
Some books offer markets on a horse simply to finish the race, which can appeal in the Grand National given the high faller and non-finisher rates.

How does ground (going) affect Grand National betting?
Going influences pace and stamina demands. Softer ground often rewards strong stayers, while better ground can help sound jumpers travel comfortably and quicken late.

Do favourites often win the Grand National?
Favourites can win, but the combination of a large field, big fences, and extreme distance increases upset potential and keeps mid-range and each-way prices popular.

Can I cash out Grand National bets?
Many UKGC bookmakers offer cash out on selected markets, though availability and the price you are offered depend on the operator and the bet type.

When is the best time to place a Grand National bet?
Early prices can be appealing, but betting closer to race time helps once the final field, going, and market strength are clearer.

How do I find value in Grand National odds?
Value means the odds look bigger than the horse’s true chance. Comparing prices across bookmakers and focusing on each-way terms can improve expected returns.

How can I bet responsibly on the Grand National?
Set a budget for the festival, keep stakes consistent, avoid chasing losses, and use UKGC tools like deposit limits, time-outs, and self-exclusion if needed.