A Full Guide to Grand National Betting (2021)

The Grand National Festival is an annual, three-day National Hunt horse race held in April at the Aintree Racecourse near Liverpool. First contested in 1839, it is a handicap steeplechase run over a distance of 6907 km. In this article, we'll list the best Grand National betting sites, including updated Grand National odds, betting markets and tips, and schedules of all the Grand National horse races. Read on to find out more!

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2021 Grand National Odds, Tips, and Predictions

Every year in April, horse-racing enthusiasts (and the majority of the UK) turn their focus to the Aintree Racecourse for the biggest, almost iconic, event in equestrian sports – the Grand National. A race that stands out for multiple reasons, it showcases classic horse racing and sheer prestige, all taking place across:

  • 30 fences
  • 40 runners
  • A distance of four miles and two-and-a-half furlongs

The three-day meet marks the close of the Jump-racing season, with the Grand National race (typically scheduled on a Saturday) dropping the curtain on the event and ushering in the Flat season. Secondly, Grand National betting, and the race in itself, is as unpredictable as horse racing gets. Everyone, from seasoned punters to novices, has an equal shot at winning.

For the year 2021, the Grand National festival will be held from April 8-10. The Grand National steeple chase is scheduled on the last day, as always.

With over £1 million to be won in prize money, the Grand National is truly one of the most anticipated events in the horse racing calendar. From a betting perspective, we reckon no other event gets even the most casual of punters as excited. Therefore, there's no time like the present to get your hands on some of the best Grand National odds, tips, and strategies around.

Grand National Odds 2021

These are the latest Grand National 2021 odds

2021 Grand National Odds Outright Winner

Horse Grand National Odds Bookmaker
Cloth Cap 5.00 bet365
Any Second Now 11.00 bet365
Burrows Sain 11.00 Unibet
Kimberlite Candy 13.00 Betfred
Minella Times 15.00 bet365
Secret Reprieve 15.00 Unibet
Discorama 19.00 Bet365
Magic of Light 21.00 Boyle Sports
The Storyteller 21.00 888sport
Potters Corner 26.00 Unibet
Bristol De Mai 26.00 Unibet
Santini 34.00 Boylesports
Lord Du Mesnil 34.00 Betfred
Anibale Fly 34.00 Unibet
Acapella Bourgeois 34.00 bet365

NOTE: For all Grand National odds, head over to bet365; in addition, the best India horse racing betting sites all offer Grand National betting.

Grand National Betting Tips 2021

Here are the horses we think could run a fantastic race on April 10, 2021:

  • Kimberlite Candy

A rather attractive Grand National betting prospect. Though pulled up at the Irish Grand National, the nine-year-old gelding has since come in 2nd at the Becher Chase (Aintree) before heading to Warwick and winning a race over 3m 5f.

Bet on Kimberlite Candy with Betfred at Grand National odds of 13.00

  • Easysland

He won the Glenfarclas Chase at the Cheltenham Festival in fine style, spoiling Tiger Roll’s party. Easysland is a natural long-distance runner, undoubtedly one of our top Grand National betting picks in 2021.

Bet on Easysland with 888sport at Grand National odds of 33.00

  • Potters Corner

Winner of the 2019 Midlands Grand National and the Welsh Grand National the same year, Potters Corner personifies stamina. Of course, soft ground and some rain bring out the best in the eleven-year-old gelding. But hey, he did win the 2020 Virtual Grand National. Potters Corner is surely one of the stronger contenders for Grand National betting in 2021.

Bet on Potters Corner with Unibet at Grand National odds of 26.00

  • Discorama

In the previous season, this eight-year-old had generated a lot of buzz. Now, with one more year under his belt, Discorama could well be the one to watch out for in 2021. Sure, Grand National odds on this gelding are long, but you must also consider the unpredictability of the race. So many horses have won at high odds that it is impossible to rule out a worthy contender, no matter the price.

Bet on Discorama with bet365 at Grand National odds of 19.00

2021 Grand National Betting: Picking A Winner

Thanks to the 40+ field size, the Grand National horse race is one of the most open sporting contests ever. Trying to single out the winner is no mean feat, but we have put together a little checklist that should help you narrow down your selections (if not zero in on one).

To cherry-pick at Aintree is much like making the best cricket prediction in the world, which should interest you if you are a cricket nut.

That said, here are your Grand National betting criteria:

  • Age

Grand National betting essential #1: Understand that the fences at Aintree warrant a certain level of maturity, something that usually follows age and experience. Therefore, you want to eliminate runners who are less than eight and more than eleven years old. In the last 20 Grand National horse races, as many as 19 winners belonged to this age group.

Only Amberleigh House in 2004 had bucked the trend, acing the Grand National when he was 12.

  • Weight

The handicap system is meant to give every runner a fair shot at winning. Good and strong contenders typically carry more weight than their weaker cousins. For the sake of Grand National betting, remember that historically, runners carrying more than 11 stones and 3 pounds have struggled to beat this handicap.

In fact, only four horses in the past 20 years have managed to win, despite carrying more weight. They were Tiger Roll (2019), Many Clouds (2015), Neptune Collonges (2012), and Don’t Push It (2010).

  • The ‘Aintree Factor’

If you’re smart, you’ll look at Grand National odds. If you’re wise, you’ll look at experience.

Horses that have previously fared well at Aintree — particularly over Grand National fences — are indeed the more sensible options for Grand National betting. It doesn’t matter as much if your selection has ever won the Grand National horse race or the Topham steeplechase; if they navigated the course successfully and finished the race, it’s an indicator that they could do it all over again.

  • Temperament

Look at performances over the past seasons. Steer clear of horses that fall, refuse to run, unseat the jockey, or get pulled up often. As you can imagine, they're not smart choices for Grand National betting. For instance, Pineau de Re had only fallen once in the two years preceding his 2014 Grand National glory moment. Needless to say, he has never refused, unseated his rider, or gotten pulled up to date.

On the other hand, you have Battlegroup, notorious for having refused to race and for being pulled up twice in the three races leading up to the Grand National in 2014. So, it wasn’t a shocker really when he planted his feet firmly and refused to move on the big day. Imagine the disappointment of those who had put their money on him!


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You'll be offered a nice mix of Grand National betting markets at all the best sports betting India sites. Stated below are the more common bets you can place:

  • To Win

The Outright market typically offers the most competitive Grand National odds, and hence, gets a lot of attention from punters. Here, you are simply required to predict the winner of the Grand National horse race.

Should your selection win, you can enjoy massive winnings. The downside is that this Grand National betting market only covers the winner; so, if your pick doesn’t win, you lose your stake. Calling a 40+ field size is certainly no mean feat, and if you are a first-time punter, we recommend you keep off this minefield.

Recommended bookie for Outright Grand National Betting: bet365 | Unibet

Unibet Grand National Market

  • Each-Way

Remember, Grand National betting is different from Cheltenham betting, considering the former opens up opportunities for newbies. That’s precisely why we think an each-way bet could probably be the most popular on race day, simply because it rewards the bettor even if the horse doesn’t win.

This bet type is two wagers rolled into one. The first is for a horse to win, whereas the second is for it to only place (within a certain number of positions, depending on the field size and the bookie). Each-way odds are typically a fraction of the usual.

Here, your stake is divided into two, with one half going on the ‘win’ and the other on the ‘place’. Therefore, if you bet Rs 50 each-way, total stake will equal Rs 100.

The longer the odds, the greater the advantage of each-way betting. That’s because it allows you to make a handsome profit (and get back at least a part of your stake should your selection not win).

An explanation on each way market

Recommended bookie for Each-way Grand National Betting: Unibet | 888sport

Unibet Casino Lord Betting Market

  • Forecast/Tricast

A straight forecast requires you to pick the top two horses in the exact order. Your bet will win only if the two selections end the race in that way. Similarly, a tricast is where you back the top three horses to win in a particular order.

There are variations of these as well:

  • Reverse forecast: You back the top two horses in any order. A reverse forecast is essentially placing two bets.
  • Combination tricast: Similarly, you back the top three horses, never mind the order. A combination tricast consists of six bets in total.

Recommended bookie for Forecast/Tricast Grand National Betting: Unibet | Marathonbet

Unibet Forecast

Grand National 2021 Schedule

Although Grand National betting is exciting enough in itself, don’t forget that there’s a lot else to look forward to as well.

Here’s the detailed schedule of all the Grand National horse races:

Time Day 1, April 8, 2021 (Thursday) Distance
13:45 Manifesto Novices’ Steeple Chase 2m 4f
14:20 Doom Bar Anniversary 4-Y-O Juvenile Hurdle 2m 1f
14:50 Betway Bowl Steeple 3m 1f
15:25 Betway Aintree Hurdle 2m 4f
16:05 Randox Health Foxhunters’ Steeple Chase 2m 5f
16:40 Close Brothers Red Rum Handicap Steeple Chase 2m
17:15 Goffs UK Nickel Coin Mares’ Standard Open NH Flat 2m 1f
Time Day 2, April 9, 2021 (Friday) Distance
13:45 Merseyrail Handicap Hurdle 2m 4f
14:20 Betway Top Novices’ Hurdle 2m ½ f
14:50 Betway Mildmay Novices’ Steeple Chase 3m 1f
15:25 JLT Steeple Chase 2m 4f
16:05 Randox Health Topham Steeple Chase 2m 5f
16:40 Doom Bar Sefton Novices’ Hurdle 3m ½ f
17:15 Weatherbys Racing Bank Standard Open NH Flat 2m 1f
Time Day 3, April 10, 2021 (Saturday) Distance
13:45 Gaskells Handicap Hurdle 3m ½ f
14:25 Betway Mersey Novices’ Hurdle 2m 4f
15:30 Doom Bar Maghull Novices’ Steeple Chase 2m
15:40 Ryanair Stayers Hurdle 3m ½ f
16:20 Betway Handicap Steeple Chase 3m 1f
17:15 Randox Health Grand National Steeple Chase 4m 2 ½ f
18:20 Pinsent Masons Handicap Hurdle 2m ½ f

Grand National Betting 2021: Leading Jockeys

Below, we take look at some of the firm favourites for the 2021 Grand National horse race:

  • Davy Russell

Grand National Victories: 2 (2018, 2019)

Having ridden Tiger Roll to victory twice in a row, all bets are surely on the Ireland-based Davy Russell to complete his trifecta of wins. If he manages to do this, he’ll become the first-ever jockey to win the Grand National thrice. If you were to ask us, we think there’s every chance for him to achieve this feat. Yes, Davy R definitely features in our Grand National betting top picks.

  • Daryl Jacob

Grand National Victories: 1 (2012)

While he mostly freelances these days, Daryl Jacob grabbed his moment in the spotlight in 2012, when he rode Neptune Collonges to his first (and only) Grand National success. However, over the past few seasons, the 37-year-old Irish hasn’t had much to write home about.

In the 2017 edition of the Grand National, Daryl rode Ucello Conti, only to be unseated by the horse with four fences to go. 2018 wasn’t remarkable either; the jockey finished 18th at the Grand National horse race. That said, he still remains a potent force, and should find a place on your Grand National betting slip.

Honourable Mentions

  • Richard Johnson: 0 Grand National Win
  • Robbie Power: 1 Grand National Win

 Grand National Betting: Non-Runner No Bet

Besides long Grand National odds, a Non-Runner No Bet (NRNB) is definitely worth keeping in mind.

But what does NRNB mean? Put simply, this feature comes in handy, particularly if you’re betting on the futures market. Suppose you placed an ante-post bet, but unfortunately, the horse doesn’t run that particular race on the day. With a Non-Runner No Bet, you get your stake refunded in full, no questions asked.

That is to say, your bet won’t be deemed a loser should you opt for NRNB with Grand National betting.

NRNB markets typically run from two weeks up to race day, when all intended runners have finally been confirmed.

Recommended Grand National betting sites offering NRNB: bet365 | Unibet

Past Winners at the Grand National

2018Tiger RollDavy Russell

Year Winner Jockey
2019 Tiger Roll Davy Russell
2017 One For Arthur Derek Fox
2016 Rule The World David Mullins
2015 Many Clouds Leighton Aspell
2014 Pineau de Re Leighton Aspell
2013 Auroras Encore Ryan Mania
2012 Neptune Collonges Daryl Jacob
2011 Ballabriggs Jason Maguire
2010 Don’t Push It Sir AP McCoy
2009 Mon Mome Liam Treadwell
2008 Comply Or Die Timmy Murphy
2007 Silver Birch Robbie Power
2006 Numbersixvalverde Niall Madden

Virtual Grand National Betting

An algorithm-based simulation run that has been around since 2017, the Virtual Grand National, created by the Manchester-based Inspired Entertainment, is the closest you will get to the real action that unfolds at the Aintree Racecourse every year in April.

In 2020, its popularity hit the roof, thanks to the Grand National being axed due to the pandemic-induced lockdown.

How Does it Work?

An algorithm is fed as many real-world data as possible, including probable weather conditions, a horse’s track record, details of past runs, and the like. The Virtual Grand National winner is determined by a Random Number Generator (RNG), much like the one used across the best online casino sites in India.

To make it as realistic as possible, the Virtual Grand National horse race has runners falling, unseating their jockeys, and missing fences.

The demand for virtual and fantasy sports betting opportunities, especially within the societal context of the current pandemic, is ever-growing. Take Dream 11 fantasy cricket, for example. With the best Dream 11 tips and predictions, you can build your own team, wager on fantasy matches, and get a chance to win handsomely.

Past Virtual Grand National Horse Race Results

20201. Potters Corner
2. Walk In The Mill
3. Any Second Now
4. Tiger RollSCRAPPED

Season Virtual Grand National Top 4 Grand National Top 4
2019 1. Rathvinden
2. Tiger Roll
3. Jury Duty
4. Anibale Fly		 1. Tiger Roll
2. Magic Of Light
3. Rathvinden
4. Walk In The Mill
2018 1. Tiger Roll
2. Chase The Spud
3. Total Recall
4. Houblon Des Obeaux		 1. Tiger Roll
2. Pleasant Company
3. Bless The Wings
4. Anibale Fly
2017 1. Cause Of Causes
2. Pleasant Company
3. Vieux Lion Rouge
4. Vicente		 1. One For Arthur
2. Cause Of Causes
3. Saint Are
4. Blaklion


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  • Horses, aged eight or older, have had the best record of late; typically, 8-10 is the optimal age.
  • Over the last 20 years, only four horses carrying more than 11 stones and 3 lbs have won.
  • 10 of the previous 12 winners were running the race for the first time.
  • Keep an eye on horses that have run over hurdles within that season.
  • Irish-trained horses have a bit of a record going at the Grand National, winning three of the last four runs.
  • Irish-bred horses have had the best Grand National record of late.
  • Watch out for horses that couldn’t place in the preceding year’s Grand National; they usually do well.

Grand National Betting FAQs

When is the Grand National this year?

The 2021 Grand National meeting is scheduled from April 8-10 (Thursday to Saturday).

Where is the Grand National held?

The annual Grand National horse racing meet takes place at the Aintree Racecourse, Liverpool, England.

How many fences are there to be jumped?

The Grand National race consists of 30 fences that horses have to jump to be finally declared a winner.

What are the best Grand National betting sites?

All the bookmakers we have put together in this article offer a rewarding Grand National betting experience, replete with the best Grand National odds around, as well as various betting markets. If you were to ask us about our favourites, they’d be bet365, BETWINNER, 888sport, and 10bet.

Which jockey should I keep an eye on during Grand National betting?

Reigning champion Davy Russell is an obvious contender for Grand National betting. He has ridden to victory two times in a row – 2018 and 2019. If he aces the 2021 edition, Davy Russell will become the first-ever jockey to win the Grand National three times in succession.

I’m not from India. Can I still enjoy Grand National betting?

Of course. Thanks to online betting, you can bet from anywhere in the world (local laws and regulations permitting). Suppose you are from Bangladesh – in that case, you might want to check out the best betting sites in Bangladesh.

Can I bet live on the Grand National horse races?

Yes. You can bet on every Grand National race live at the best in-play betting sites.

What factors should I consider in the best Grand National betting sites?

Ensure the bookie you choose provides:

  • Multiple Grand National betting markets, including To Win, Each-way, and Forecast/Tricast
  • Competitive Grand National odds
  • Secure and instant betting payment methods, easy withdrawal options
  • Welcome offers, free bets, and other promos available
  • Mobile-compatible site
  • 24×7 customer support


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CricketBettingAdvice Final Say

A National Hunt horse race that drips British culture and hospitality, Grand National is undoubtedly one of its kind. Arguably Europe’s ‘most valuable’ jump race, this three-day meet is, according to many, the ultimate test for both the horse and its rider. Its popularity is unrivalled, even among watchers and bettors who wouldn’t otherwise care much for horse racing.

The most recent edition was the one in 2019, won by Tiger Roll — trained by Gordon Elliott and ridden by Davy Russell. So far, Irish-trained horses have been the most successful among international participants, with as many as 16 winners since 1900, and nine since 1999. Could it be the Davy Russell-Tiger Roll combine bagging their third championship in a row? Only time will tell.

In the meantime, until the day of the race finally arrives, check out our top money management tips to help protect your bankroll and enjoy Grand National betting to the fullest.

Best of luck!

Further Reading

  1. Best India Horse Race Betting Sites (2022) In this guide, we take you through the top 10...
  2. Your Guide to Cheltenham Betting Odds and Tips (2021) The Cheltenham Festival, rightly billed ‘The Greatest Show on Turf',...
  3. The Ultimate Virtual Cricket Betting Guide (2022) In this article, we cover everything you need to know...

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