The Goodwood Revival Guide
18 Jan 2024What is the Goodwood Revival?
Step back in time to the 1950s and 60s at the legendary Goodwood Revival, an annual race meeting that focuses on vintage and iconic cars. But don’t let this simplistic summary fool you, oh no, this event is much more than a simple race meet. Think vintage glamour, from the fashion on display to the beautiful setting and packages on offer and not forgetting the classic cars this event is fully immersive and staged in period. The Goodwood Revival is an experience, that can be enjoyed by all ages, families, and friends. There are fifteen races over the three-day weekend, that includes an abundance of previous Grand Prix cars, motorcycles, GT cars, and more from the 1960s, ‘50s, and ‘40s. Most races take place on the Saturday and Sunday, making them the prime days to attend if you have a need for speed. To add more excitement to the weekend these cars are often driven by favourite and famous professional drivers past and present, Martin Brundle, David Coulthard, Damon Hill to name a few.
When is the Goodwood Revival
The three-day event takes place in early September with the 2024 Goodwood Revival taking place 6th – 8th September.The History of Goodwood
In its heyday Goodwood was one of the motorsport racing circuits in the UK alongside Silverstone. The racetrack was opened in 1948 by the 9th Duke of Richmond and Gordon. From then until 1966 the circuited was home to major motor sport racing including the Tourist Trophy and Glove Trophy. In 1998 the Duke’s grandson, Charles, Earl of March revived the circuit and today is home to the Goodwood Revival, The Goodwood Festival of Speed and other various events throughout the year. The Revival weekend reignites the history of the circuit, bringing it back to life, transporting attendees to a different era.Where is the Goodwood Revival
The Goodwood Revival takes place at the Goodwood Motor Circuit, in Chichester, West Sussex in the grounds of the Goodwood Estate. It is accessible by car, 4 miles north of Chichester, 60 miles from London and 30 miles from Brighton and Southampton, with free car parking available on site. Should you wish, you can also arrive by helicopter. Trains from London Victoria, Brighton and Portsmouth are available to Chichester with buses from the train station and taxis available to the circuit.What to wear to the Goodwood Revival
One of the biggest decisions to make when it comes to the Goodwood Revival, is what to wear. Not only does Goodwood honour the history of motorsports but we love that the fashion of the weekend also takes centre stage. The fashion encouraged for the weekend dates from 1948 – 1966 (the years the circuit was active for). It can be a time to get creative, make your own vintage outfit or take the time to find interesting styles at vintage and second-hand stores.Our top tips for finding a Goodwood Revival Outfit
Do your research – start on pinterest, have a look at the fashion during the time, look at iconic moments and styles from those decades, if you want to go true to the Goodwood spirit take a look through the Goodwood Circuit archives, to ensure your outfit is on racing point. Wearing service uniforms is also encouraged at Goodwood. Anything from Airforce inspired outfits to nailed it head to toe Naval outfits it is a popular choice for the event. Equally as popular as motor inspired outfits from overalls to leathers, you will not be struggling for inspiration to attend the event. Old school smooth - one of the easiest options for gents…simple yet smart, think blazers, ties, crisp shirts, we’re thinking original GANT. If you are unsure what to wear or where to begin there are vintage markets and shops across the event and you can even finish off your outfit with a visit to the hair salons or barber on site.What not to wear to the Goodwood Revival
The event respectfully requests that all style choices are conscious and thoughtful, avoiding controversial uniforms and ensuring everything is culturally appropriate.Goodwood Revival Outfit Inspiration for Men
Music to our ears, TWEED is a great choice for the Goodwood Revival, think anything from deer stalker style breeks to traditional 3 piece tweed suits. Tweed is a perfect choice for Goodwood and the best part is this timeless fabric will be something you can wear again.
Blazers and jackets are perfect for Goodwood. Whether you are looking for a classic smart jacket, styled up with a shirt, tie and trilby or channelling your inner motorcyclist with a wax or leather jacket.
Knitwear can be another great alternative for the Goodwood Revival. They can easily be paired with suits, smart trousers and tweeds, or provide the perfect accompaniment to a services themed outfit.
As mentioned above, waistcoats are a dapper option for the Goodwood Revival and given the race meet takes place in September, a waistcoat is the perfect alternative to a jacket when style is still of the utmost importance.
Finishing touches can make an outfit, and this is certainly true of Goodwood. From trilby hats to pocket squares, accessories are a great way to add a touch of your individual style or truly commit to the vintage style of your outfit. We appreciate that the generations before us wore more accessories than we do today, and its a great chance to pay homage to that.
