Bonneville, Dench, Spielberg, Vorderman: As the Grand National looms, did you know these famous people have owned racehorses?

The Grand National is upon us once again, with over 70,000 people attending Aintree races across three days – which culminate in Saturday’s Grand National, the No1 horse race in the world.

Among the avid punters, it can be quite common to see a few famous faces also enjoying one of the biggest weekends in horse racing history, whether that be in the stands or inside the paddock, cheering on a horse of their own.

Betting.com has revealed ten of the biggest faces who have owned their own racehorses, from footballers to actors and TV presenters, but how many of these 10 – including West Sussex’s Hugh Bonneville – did you know had such involvement in the sport? And are there any notable names you can add to the list?

5. Carol Vorderman

What’s more surprising? The fact that Richard Hammond and Carol Vorderman own a racehorse, or that they teamed up to own one together? The former Top Gear presenter teamed up with the ex-Countdown host to form the ‘Surf on the Turf’ syndicate - along with Ian Brotherton. The maths really do add up for this celebrity syndicate, as their prize horse, Subway Surf, won on its racing debut at Ludlow in January 2019. Photo: Alan Crowhurst

6. Hugh Bonneville

An Austin Powers actress, Downton Abbey actor and eccentric TV chef? Elizabeth Hurley, Hugh Bonneville & Heston Blumenthal are all part of the Highclere Thoroughbred Racing Network syndicate and have enjoyed success on some of the most valuable race courses in the world Picture: Getty Photo: Tristan Fewings

7. Mike Tindall

Given how common it is to see royals like Princess Anne and Kate Middleton pop up at major racing events such as Ascot and Cheltenham, it is maybe not too shocking to learn that Mike Tindall - who is married into the royal family through Zara Phillips - owns racehorses. The former rugby union player has owned several racehorses over the years, including Monbeg Dude which placed third at the 2015 Grand National. Photo: WPA Pool

8. Dame Judi Dench

The acclaimed actress, Dame Judi Dench might be best known for her love of Shakespeare, but she also has another passion for horse racing. The Oscar-winning actress has owned several racehorses over the years, most notably Smokey Oakey, which won the 2008 Lincoln Stakes. Photo: John Phillips