Best Grand National Betting Sites and Apps

The Grand National is more than just a horse race—it’s a cultural phenomenon, a thrilling spectacle, and, for many, a golden opportunity to place a wager. Whether you’re a seasoned punter or someone who only bets once a year when the famous Aintree fences come into view, finding the best Grand National betting sites and apps is key to enhancing your experience. With the event drawing millions of viewers and bettors worldwide, the competition among bookmakers is fierce, offering you a wealth of options packed with promotions, competitive odds, and user-friendly features.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about betting on the Grand National in 2025. From the top betting sites and mobile apps to expert tips on how to maximize your wagers, we’ve got you covered. Let’s explore the platforms that stand out, why they’re worth your time, and how you can make the most of this iconic race—all while keeping your betting fun, safe, and rewarding.

Why the Grand National is a Betting Highlight

The Grand National isn’t called the “world’s greatest steeplechase” for nothing. Held annually at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool, UK, this legendary event features 40 horses tackling a grueling 4-mile course with 30 challenging fences. It’s unpredictable, exhilarating, and a magnet for casual and hardcore bettors alike. In 2024, over 150,000 spectators flocked to Aintree, while millions more watched globally, placing bets on everything from the outright winner to each-way finishes.

What makes it so special for betting? The sheer unpredictability. Longshots often triumph—think Mon Mome’s 100/1 upset in 2009 or Noble Yeats’ 50/1 victory in 2022. This opens the door to massive payouts, making it a punter’s dream. Plus, bookmakers roll out the red carpet with free bets, enhanced odds, and extra-place offers, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

If you’re ready to join the action in 2025, choosing the right betting site or app is your first step. Let’s break down the best options available.

What Makes a Great Grand National Betting Site or App?

Before we dive into our top picks, let’s talk about what sets a betting platform apart for the Grand National. Here’s what to look for:

1. Competitive Odds: Higher odds mean bigger returns. The best sites consistently offer value, especially on outsiders.
2. Promotions and Free Bets: Welcome bonuses, extra places, and money-back specials can boost your bankroll.
3. User Experience: A seamless interface—whether on desktop or mobile—makes placing bets quick and stress-free.
4. Live Streaming: Watching the race live while betting adds excitement and helps with in-play wagers.
5. Range of Markets: Beyond picking the winner, look for sites offering bets on top finishes, fallers, or even jockey performance.
6. Reliability and Security: Licensed platforms with strong reputations ensure your funds and data are safe.

With these criteria in mind, here are the best Grand National betting sites and apps for 2025, based on performance, user feedback, and industry buzz.

Top 5 Grand National Betting Sites and Apps for 2025

Bet365

Why It’s Great: Bet365 is a household name for a reason—it’s reliable, packed with features, and tailor-made for the Grand National. Known for its competitive odds and generous promotions, it’s a top choice for both newbies and pros.

• Odds: Consistently among the best, with price boosts for big races.
• Promotions: New users can snag up to £30 in free bets with a £10 deposit (terms apply). Look out for extra-place offers and Best Odds Guaranteed (BOG).
• App Features: The bet365 app is lightning-fast, with live streaming of the Grand National and in-play betting options.
• Why It Stands Out: Their “Each-Way Extra” feature lets you adjust place terms, giving you flexibility on longshots.

Best For: Punters who want a polished, all-in-one experience.

Paddy Power

Why It’s Great: Paddy Power brings personality to betting with quirky markets and standout offers. It’s a Grand National staple thanks to its bold promotions and competitive edge.

• Odds: Solid, with frequent enhanced odds specials.
• Promotions: New customers get £20 in free bets after a £5 wager (promo code required). Expect money-back specials if your horse falls at the first fence.
• App Features: Intuitive design, live streaming, and free-to-play games like their Grand National predictor.
• Why It Stands Out: Known for paying out early on big races and offering unique bets like “number of finishers.”

Best For: Bettors who enjoy a bit of flair with their wagers.

Sky Bet

Why It’s Great: Sky Bet shines during big racing festivals, and the Grand National is no exception. Their extra-place offers are a game-changer for each-way bettors.

• Odds: Competitive, especially on favorites.
• Promotions: £30 in free bets for a 5p minimum bet—perfect for newbies. They often pay out on six or more places.
• App Features: Clean layout, live streaming, and real-time odds updates.
• Why It Stands Out: Market leader in extra-place terms, increasing your chances of a payout.

Best For: Each-way enthusiasts chasing value.

William Hill

Why It’s Great: With decades of experience, William Hill is often the first to price up Grand National runners, giving you early access to value odds.

• Odds: Some of the earliest and best ante-post prices.
• Promotions: £30 in free bets for a £10 stake (terms apply), plus extra-place races and BOG.
• App Features: Smooth navigation, live radio commentary, and streaming options.
• Why It Stands Out: Perfect for ante-post betting months ahead of the race.

Best For: Strategic bettors who plan ahead.

Coral

Why It’s Great: Coral blends strong odds with a user-friendly platform, making it a sleeper hit for Grand National punters.

• Odds: Above average, with occasional price boosts.
• Promotions: £20 in free bets for a £5 bet, plus regular Grand National specials.
• App Features: Fast, reliable, and packed with live betting tools.
• Why It Stands Out: Their “Racing Super Series” offers free bets if you predict top finishers.

Best For: Casual bettors looking for simplicity and value.

How to Choose the Right Betting Platform for You

With so many great options, how do you pick? It boils down to your betting style:

• New to Betting? Go for Sky Bet or Paddy Power—their generous welcome offers and simple apps ease you in.
• Love Longshots? Bet365’s Each-Way Extra and William Hill’s ante-post odds are your best bets.
• Live Betting Fan? Coral and bet365 lead with real-time features and streaming.
• Promo Hunter? Paddy Power and Sky Bet keep the bonuses coming.

Pro tip: Sign up for multiple sites before the Grand National to compare odds and snag all the free bets. Most welcome offers are for new customers only, so take advantage early!

Grand National Betting Tips: How to Win Big in 2025

Betting on the Grand National isn’t just about luck—strategy plays a huge role. Here are some humanized, practical tips to boost your chances:

1. Research the Runners: Look at recent form, jockey stats, and how horses handle heavy ground (Aintree’s weather can be wild!).
2. Go Each-Way: With 40 runners, picking the winner is tough. Each-way bets pay out if your horse finishes in the top 4–6, depending on the bookmaker.
3. Hunt for Value: Don’t just back the favorite—outsiders often surprise. Check odds across sites for the best deal.
4. Use Promotions: Free bets and extra places can stretch your budget further.
5. Set a Budget: It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement. Decide what you’re comfortable spending and stick to it.

For 2025, keep an eye on past winners like I Am Maximus (2024 champ) or emerging stars. Weather forecasts closer to race day (typically mid-April) will also shape the field.

Mobile Apps vs. Desktop: Which is Better for Grand National Betting?

In 2025, mobile betting is king. Apps offer convenience—you can bet from the pub, the couch, or even Aintree itself. But desktop sites have their perks too. Here’s a quick comparison:

Mobile Apps

• Pros: Bet on the go, push notifications for odds updates, and often faster navigation.
• Cons: Smaller screens can feel cramped for detailed research.

Desktop Sites

• Pros: Bigger displays for comparing odds and markets, easier multi-tasking.
• Cons: Less portable, no instant alerts.

For the Grand National, apps win for most punters. The top platforms—like bet365, Paddy Power, and Sky Bet—optimize their apps with live streaming and one-tap betting, perfect for the race’s fast pace.

The Best Grand National Promotions to Watch For

Bookmakers pull out all the stops for the Grand National. Here’s what to expect in 2025:

• Free Bets: Bet £5–£10, get £20–£30 in credits (e.g., Paddy Power, bet365).
• Extra Places: Sky Bet and William Hill often pay out on 6+ places instead of the standard 4.
• Money-Back Offers: If your horse falls or finishes second, Paddy Power and Coral might refund your stake.
• Enhanced Odds: Boosted prices on favorites or longshots, common with bet365 and William Hill.

Check each site’s promotions page in early April 2025—offers ramp up as race day nears.

Safety First: Betting Responsibly on the Grand National

Betting should be fun, not stressful. Here’s how to keep it that way:

• Choose Licensed Sites: All our picks are regulated by the UK Gambling Commission or equivalent.
• Set Limits: Use deposit caps or time-out features most apps offer.
• Know When to Stop: If it’s not enjoyable, take a break. Resources like BeGambleAware.org are there if you need support.

The Grand National is a thrill, but it’s not worth chasing losses over. Bet smart, and you’ll enjoy the ride—win or lose.

Final Thoughts

The Grand National is a one-of-a-kind event, and the best betting sites and apps make it even better. Whether you’re drawn to bet365’s all-around excellence, Paddy Power’s playful edge, or Sky Bet’s extra-place generosity, there’s a platform for you. Combine that with a solid strategy—research, each-way bets, and promo hunting—and you’re set for a cracking race day.

As of March 1, 2025, we’re still months out from the big event, but now’s the perfect time to explore these sites, claim welcome offers, and get familiar with their apps. When April rolls around, you’ll be ready to back your favorite horse with confidence.

So, which site will you try first? Let the countdown to Aintree begin!