Grand National Photos

The Grand National at Aintree is one of the biggest sporting events of the year and has been a British sporting institution since 1839. Since a horse called Lottery won the inaugural race and Captain Becher fell at a now world-famous brook, there has been much annual excitement both on the racecourse and off it. Browse our gallery of Grand National photos today for some of the most historic moments caught on camera. Spot your favourite horses and jockeys and get an iconic image in print or canvas. Prints come framed or unframed.

The Grand National takes place over an official distance of 4 miles and 2½ furlongs (4 miles 514 yards or 6.907 km). The finest racehorses and jockeys are challenged to take on 30 fences over 2 laps with prize funds reaching millions. Known as the ultimate test of horse and rider, the Grand National is not for the faint hearted. Intense training and a thorough knowledge of the course is required with fences ranging in height, but all posing a unique challenge. There are 15 unique fences in total including Becher’s Brook which stands at 5ft and has a landing side up to 10 inches lower than the take-off side. Another significant jump is the Canal Turn which features a sharp 90-degree turn directly after landing and The Chair, a 5’ 2’’ jump proceeded by a 6ft wide ditch.

The leading Grand National horse is Red Rum who enjoyed three wins in 1773, 1974 and 1977. Top Grand National jockeys include George Stevens who had 5 impressive wins. Browse our Grand National print gallery today for more big names.