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Goodwood is a large estate near Chichester in West Sussex, best known for motorsport, horse racing and a calendar of well-known events. The Festival of Speed and the Goodwood Revival draw huge crowds each year, while the estate also offers a hotel, a racecourse, a motor circuit, a house and plenty of countryside. Whether you are planning to attend a big event or just want a day out, this guide explains when events usually happen, where to stay, how to get there without a car and what else there is to do. Dates, prices and arrangements change every year, so always confirm details on the official Goodwood website.
When are the Goodwood events?
Goodwood runs events through much of the year. The best-known ones follow a fairly consistent pattern, although exact dates change annually.
- Festival of Speed: usually held in the summer. It celebrates motor racing with cars and bikes taking on the famous hillclimb, plus displays, paddocks and entertainment.
- Goodwood Revival: usually held in early autumn. It is a vintage motor racing weekend where many visitors dress in clothing from the mid twentieth century, which is a big part of the atmosphere.
- Glorious Goodwood: a summer horse racing festival at the racecourse, popular for its setting and its social side.
- Other events: the estate hosts a range of other events, including motor circuit days, shows and seasonal activities.
Always check the official events calendar for dates, ticket releases and any rules about dress or access. Popular events can sell out well in advance, and accommodation in the area fills up quickly around the biggest weekends.
Where should you stay near Goodwood?
Your choice depends on whether you want to be on the estate, in Chichester or somewhere with more of a coastal feel.
- On the Goodwood estate: the estate has its own hotel and other accommodation. This is the most convenient option, but it tends to be the most expensive and can book out far ahead for event weekends.
- Chichester: a historic cathedral city with a good choice of hotels, guest houses and restaurants. It is a sensible base if you want to combine Goodwood with sightseeing.
- Villages and countryside: country pubs with rooms and bed and breakfasts nearby offer a quieter stay. Check how far they are from the estate and whether you will need a car or taxi.
- Coastal towns: places such as Bognor Regis or Selsey and the Witterings can make a good base if you want to add beach time. See our UK coastal holidays guide for ideas.
Prices rise sharply around major events, and some places set minimum stays. Compare several options, look at cancellation terms and book early if your dates are fixed. If you are staying for a longer break, our Sussex breaks guide and our weekend breaks from Brighton page have more ideas.
How do you get to Goodwood without a car?
Goodwood is in the countryside, so it is easiest by car, but you can reach it by public transport with a little planning.
- By train: Chichester is the nearest main railway station. It is on the south coast line, with services from Brighton, Portsmouth and London. Check current timetables with the rail operators, and consider changes at busy times.
- Taxi from Chichester: from the station you can take a taxi to the estate. At large events demand is high, so booking ahead is wise.
- Event shuttles and buses: major events often have dedicated shuttle arrangements, but they vary by year and event. Check the official transport information before you travel.
- Walking or cycling: not practical for most visitors from Chichester, as the estate is some way out of the city, but some local cycle routes exist for confident cyclists.
If you travel from Brighton, allow extra time, as the journey by public transport usually involves the coast line and then a taxi. If you would prefer to drive, our car hire guide explains how to compare hire options and avoid extra charges. If you are travelling from further afield, our holidays from Gatwick guide covers airport transport options.
What else is there to do near Goodwood?
Goodwood is a good base for a wider Sussex trip. Even if you are not visiting for an event, there is a lot to enjoy.
On the estate
- Goodwood House: a grand historic house that is open to visitors on certain days, subject to the usual seasonal limits.
- Goodwood Motor Circuit: a historic track that hosts track days and events.
- Goodwood Racecourse: a famous course with a scenic setting on the South Downs.
- Walking: the estate sits within beautiful countryside, with paths and views across the Downs.
- Food and drink: the estate has cafes, restaurants and a farm shop, with a focus on local produce. Check opening times.
Nearby
- Chichester: a cathedral city with Roman history, independent shops and a harbour nearby. See our guide to Chichester Cathedral.
- The South Downs: excellent for walking, with views over the countryside. Our South Downs guide has route ideas.
- West Wittering: a popular beach within reach. Read our West Wittering beach guide.
- Arundel: a pretty town with a castle, a short drive east. See our Arundel Castle guide.
How to plan a trip to a big Goodwood event
Large events need more planning than a normal day out. A few practical tips can save stress.
- Book early: tickets and accommodation can sell out months ahead.
- Read the dress and access rules: some events encourage period dress, and some areas have restrictions on bags, drones or cameras.
- Plan your transport: traffic can be heavy on the roads around the estate. Allow generous extra time.
- Check the weather: much of the experience is outdoors, so bring layers, sun protection or waterproofs as needed.
- Keep flexibility: if you are booking non-refundable travel or accommodation, consider travel insurance for peace of mind.
Is Goodwood worth visiting if you are not into cars or racing?
Yes, many visitors enjoy Goodwood for the setting, the food, the walking and the atmosphere rather than the motorsport. The estate sits in attractive countryside, and a visit on a quieter day can be a relaxed experience. If you are not interested in racing, you might prefer to visit on a day without a major event, when crowds are smaller and prices are generally lower.
What should you wear and bring to Goodwood?
What you wear depends on the event. For the Goodwood Revival, many visitors enjoy dressing in clothing inspired by the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s, and the estate often encourages this. For racing days, smart casual or formal wear is common in some enclosures, while other areas are more relaxed. For the Festival of Speed, comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are the priority. In every case, check the official dress guidance for your ticket type.
- Comfortable walking shoes, as you may cover a lot of ground, sometimes on grass.
- Layers, as the weather on the Downs can change quickly.
- Sun cream, a hat and water in warm weather.
- A waterproof jacket or umbrella, though check whether umbrellas are allowed in some viewing areas.
- A portable phone charger, as signal and battery can be stretched at busy events.
Can you visit Goodwood with children or dogs?
Policies vary by event and area. Some events are family friendly, while others have age or entry rules. Dogs may be allowed in some outdoor areas but not at certain events, so check the rules before you go.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Goodwood?
Goodwood is a large estate in West Sussex, a short distance from Chichester and set within the South Downs.
When is the Festival of Speed?
It is usually held in the summer. Dates change each year, so check the official calendar.
When is the Goodwood Revival?
It is usually held in early autumn, with a focus on vintage motor racing and period dress. Check the official dates for the current year.
Do I need to book in advance?
For big events, yes. Tickets and nearby accommodation can sell out early. For quieter days, you may have more flexibility, but check the official site.
Is there parking?
Parking is usually available, but arrangements differ by event, and traffic can be heavy. Read the official transport and parking information before you travel.
Can I visit Goodwood on a day trip from Brighton?
Yes, if you plan the route and timing. Our day trips from Brighton guide has more ideas.
Is Goodwood expensive?
Costs vary a lot. Major events and estate accommodation can be expensive, while a day of walking and a meal nearby costs far less. Always check current prices.
Looking for more places to visit? Explore our UK holidays and cheap holidays guides.