Goodwood Racecourse Today
It’s been called one of the most beautiful motor circuits in Britain. If you happen to be anywhere near Chichester in West Sussex, England, then Goodwood motor circuit is worth visiting for many reasons. It is one of the most famous motor circuits in the UK and possibly the world. It enjoys a unique setting in the glorious Sussex countryside, with the Trundle or St Roche’s Iron Age Fort nearby. Goodwood motor circuit is owned by the Goodwood Estate, which is the estate of the Duke of Richmond, a member of the British aristocracy. The Goodwood Estate features one of Britain’s great historic homes and estates. With a distinguished history and a noble background. The estate hosts many events throughout the year including golf cricket, horseracing, flying and of course motor racing. Goodwood Motor circuit has something to offer every visitor, even if motor racing is not your fancy.
Goodwood Racecourse Through The Decades
Goodwood motor circuit started life in 1948 as the perimeter track of RAF Westhampnett airfield. Given permission by the duke of Richmond and set up by the junior car club, In September 1948 the first motor racing event at a permanent circuit post war took place. From then on, many famous events were held at Goodwood for long after. These included the sports car endurance race run which was a nine-hour long race and ran in 1952, 1953, 1955. The glover trophy formula one race and the tourist trophy ca race, which ran from 1958 to 1964.
Events Hosted By Goodwood motor circuit
Although Goodwood motor circuit closed for professional events in 1966, All year round hundreds of people still flock here to take part in what is known as driving experience days, where ordinary people can select a dream car of their choice and take it for a spin around this legendary racetrack. These events give anyone the opportunity to feel the exhilaration of driving a super car at top speeds.
Along with these driving experiences, The motor circuit hosts two very famous events during the summer months. The high point of the year here is the Goodwood Festival of Speed which opened in 1996 and attracts visitors in the hundreds of thousands on the last weekend on June. This event brings racing fanatics from all over the world to Goodwood. Along with races taking place around the circuit throughout the course of the festival, many big brands in the car world come and pop up showrooms where you get to chance to see their latest models.
Other major events hosted include Goodwood Revival, a three-day event in September which started in 1998 and is a tribute to some of the most iconic race cars in the history of motor racing. Unlike Goodwood festival of speed, this event is aimed at racing fanatics who have a passion for vintage cars. Again, along with races going on throughout the day, there is also lots of old cars displayed for you to learn about, dotted around the estate. As well as vintage cars, vintage planes take off into the sky around the estate and perform in front of the crowds. Everyone that visits Goodwood revival gets into the spirit and dresses up in old fashion outfits, making the whole event feel as though you have stepped back in time.
Goodwood Motor Circuit In The Future
Goodwood motor circuits enduring popularity has certainly stood the test of time and it is one of the brightest jewels in the metaphorical crown of the Duke of Richmond’s family. With a wealth of events taking place throughout the year, this exceptional track will continue to welcome racing fans and tourists alike for generations to come. It has never been a better time to visit.
