Every year, thousands of visitors travel to Liverpool for the famous Grand National at Aintree Racecourse. Many racegoers flying into the UK ask the same question: should you fly into Liverpool Airport or Manchester Airport?
Both airports serve the region well and provide easy access to Liverpool and Aintree Racecourse. However, each has its own advantages depending on where you’re travelling from.
This guide compares the two airports to help you decide which is the best option for your Grand National trip.
Liverpool John Lennon Airport
Liverpool John Lennon Airport
Liverpool Airport is the closest airport to Aintree Racecourse and is often the easiest option for visitors travelling from within the UK or Europe.
Distance to Aintree Racecourse:
Around 30 minutes by car depending on traffic.
Advantages of Liverpool Airport:
- Closest airport to Aintree Racecourse
- Short transfer times to Liverpool hotels
- Quick and simple airport layout
- Less congestion than larger airports
Because of its location, many racegoers choose Liverpool Airport when possible, especially if they want the fastest journey to their hotel or the racecourse.
Manchester Airport
Manchester Airport
Manchester Airport is the largest international airport in the North of England and serves destinations across the world.
Distance to Aintree Racecourse:
Approximately one hour by car depending on traffic.
Advantages of Manchester Airport:
- Much larger choice of international flights
- More long-haul destinations
- Frequent flights from major global cities
- Large transport connections across the region
Because of the wider range of flights available, many international visitors travelling to the Grand National arrive via Manchester Airport.
Travel Time Comparison
Approximate travel times to Aintree Racecourse:
| Airport | Distance to Aintree | Typical Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Liverpool Airport | ~15 miles | 30–40 minutes |
| Manchester Airport | ~35 miles | 60–75 minutes |
Traffic can increase during Grand National weekend, particularly on race days.
Best Transport Options from the Airports
Once you arrive in the region, there are several ways to reach Aintree Racecourse or Liverpool city centre.
Train
Manchester Airport has direct train services to Liverpool Lime Street, which connect to local rail services.
However, trains can become very busy during the Grand National festival.
Bus
Bus routes connect Liverpool Airport to the city centre, although these can be slower due to traffic.
Taxi or Private Transfer
Many visitors choose to pre-book taxis or executive transfers from either airport directly to their hotel or to Aintree Racecourse.
This allows you to travel comfortably without changing trains or waiting in queues.
Which Airport Is Best for the Grand National?
In simple terms:
Choose Liverpool Airport if:
- You’re flying from the UK or Europe
- You want the quickest transfer to Liverpool
- You prefer a smaller, easier airport
Choose Manchester Airport if:
- You’re flying long-haul
- You want more flight options
- You’re travelling from outside Europe
Both airports provide easy access to Liverpool and the Grand National.
Book Your Airport Transfer for the Grand National
If you’re flying into Liverpool or Manchester for the Grand National, ManPool Transfers offers reliable pre-booked taxis, executive cars, and minibuses between airports, hotels, and Aintree Racecourse.
Avoid busy public transport and travel comfortably with a professional driver waiting for you on arrival.
WhatsApp: +447377339872
Email: info@manpool.co.uk
Book Online: https://www.manpool.co.uk/instant-quote-secure-online-booking/