The Racecourse Prices Index: how much for a pint of Guinness at Aintree?

In the Racecourse Prices Index (RPI) we report from Britain and Ireland's racetracks on the cost of going racing.

Racecourse report: entry, food and pint prices from Aintree

Aintree

Date visited: Sunday, October 23, 2022

Was it a big day?

Yes. No races over the National fences, but the Grade 2 Old Roan Handicap Chase topped the bill on a decent seven-race card. It was Halloween family fun day with rides and entertainment for kids.

How much was entry on the gate?

£25. £20 for concessions and under-17s were free.

Other than restaurants/hospitality, what were the food and beverage options?

With an expected crowd of 6,000 at a course that can house 70,000, some stands were closed and options were limited to a food court made up of four main stalls. There were two street food stalls, the traditional burger van and a hot drinks stand, where tea was £2.50 and a latte £3.60. There were bars in the main stands, including a champagne bar.

What's the damage?

Bottle of water: £2
Cheapest pint: Carling, £6 (Worthington Bitter £5.50)
Guinness: £6.50
Champagne: £65 a bottle (Pannier Brut NV)
Burger: £6 for a cheeseburger from the burger van

All drink prices taken from the main racecourse bar, or where there are multiple bars, one chosen at random.

What was the chicken and chips like?

Not just any chicken and chips but salt and pepper chicken and chips with stir-fried peppers and onions, costing £9.50. It smelt good, looked good and tasted very good.

Salt and pepper chicken at Aintree

And the queues?

There were no problems with queues in the food court or bars about an hour before the first race.

What did the punters say?

"We got a burger, chips, a hot dog and a drink. I think it was £17, which is not bad. The quality was good and the kids are full now after eating it all. It's cheaper than Cheltenham."
Wes Brereton, Mold

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