Aintree Ladies Day 2027: Date, Dress Code & What to Wear

When is Ladies Day at Aintree 2027?

Ladies Day falls on the Friday of the three-day festival — Friday 9 April 2027, the day before the Grand National itself. The gates open at 10:30am and the first of seven races is at 1:45pm, with the last at 5:15pm. It's one of the biggest days in the British sporting and social calendar, famous across the world for its raceday fashion. For the full festival dates, see Grand National 2027 dates.

Is there a dress code for Ladies Day?

No — there's no official dress code at the Grand National, including on Ladies Day. Aintree encourages racegoers to come dressed to feel their best and describes the festival as a spectacle of colour. The only requests are no fancy dress, no sportswear, and no team colours or sports kits.

In practice, Ladies Day is the most dressed-up day of the three, and many racegoers plan their outfits months in advance.

What to wear to Aintree Ladies Day

Outfits

Dresses, jumpsuits and smart co-ords are the most popular choices, alongside sharp tailoring and suits. Bold colour and statement pieces are part of the fun — this is a day for dressing up rather than down.

Hats and headpieces

Hats, fascinators and headpieces are a Ladies Day signature, and since 2026 there's even a dedicated Best Hat award at the Style Awards. Make sure it's secure — Aintree can be breezy.

Shoes

You'll be on your feet and often walking on grass, so block heels, wedges or heel protectors are far more practical than stilettos. Many racegoers bring a pair of flats for the journey home.

Weather

Early April in Liverpool can be cool, windy and showery. A stylish coat, wrap or layers will keep you comfortable — and it's worth checking the forecast the day before.

The Style Awards

The Style Awards are a highlight of Ladies Day, celebrating the best-dressed racegoers at Aintree. In 2026 the categories were Best Dressed, Best Suited and a brand-new Best Hat award, judged with help from a renowned milliner, with Debenhams as the official style partner. Details of the 2027 awards — including partners and how to enter — are usually confirmed by Aintree closer to the festival.

The racing on Ladies Day

Ladies Day isn't just about fashion — it's a top-class day of racing too, with several Grade 1 contests and the Topham Chase, which is run over the famous Grand National fences.

See every race across all three days on our festival schedule.

Ladies Day tickets

Ladies Day is one of the fastest-selling days of the festival, so it's worth booking early. Enclosures range from the Festival Zone up to reserved grandstand seats and hospitality boxes. Compare prices and options in our Grand National tickets guide.

Getting there

Aintree Racecourse is on Ormskirk Road, Liverpool L9 5AS, with its own railway station right beside the course. Public transport is strongly recommended on festival days — see our Aintree Racecourse guide for travel details.

Frequently asked questions