The Goodwood Revival, a significant event in the automotive calendar, is set to return, celebrating the golden era of racing from 1948 to 1966. The three-day event, held annually at the Goodwood Motor Circuit in West Sussex, England, draws enthusiasts from around the globe.
The festival, established by the 11th Duke of Richmond, recreates the atmosphere of a bygone era, encouraging attendees to dress in period attire. This immersive approach transforms the circuit into a vibrant display of vintage fashion, from 1940s military uniforms to 1960s mod and rocker styles.
A Legacy of Speed and Style
The Goodwood Motor Circuit itself has a rich history, originally conceived by the current Duke's grandfather from the perimeter track of RAF Westhampnett airfield. Its opening day on September 18, 1948, attracted 15,000 spectators and 85 drivers, including the legendary Stirling Moss, who won his first race there. The inaugural Goodwood Revival meeting in September 1998 was opened by the current Duke, then the Earl of March, in a Bristol 400, mirroring his grandparents' opening of the track. The Duke also established the Goodwood Festival of Speed five years prior, which continues to be a popular event.
Immersive Experience and Star Power
The Revival is not solely for motoring aficionados. It offers a comprehensive family experience where participants, staff, and visitors alike embrace the 1948-1966 period. Online guides assist attendees in curating their retro looks, with options ranging from film stars like Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly to 1960s youth subcultures. Shops and hairdressers on-site cater to the event's thematic requirements.
Celebrities are frequent attendees and participants. Rowan Atkinson, a regular, once raced dressed as Mr. Bean, atop a Mini. Other notable figures include Pink Floyd drummer Nick Mason and pop singer Bryan Ferry. The event has also seen legendary racers such as Sir Jackie Stewart and Sir Stirling Moss. This year's lineup includes Formula 1 World Champions Jenson Button and Jacques Villeneuve, alongside four-time IndyCar Champion Dario Franchitti.
Racing and Celebrations
The racing at Goodwood Revival is renowned for its intensity, with classic cars being pushed to their limits. This year's events include the Stirling Moss Memorial Trophy for pre-1963 GT cars, the Goodwood Trophy for cars from 1930-1951, and the Barry Sheene Memorial Trophy celebrating motorcycle racing. The Whitsun Trophy will feature sports prototypes from 1948-1966, and the Glover Trophy will showcase 1.5-liter Grand Prix cars from 1955-1963.
Special celebrations are planned for the 80th anniversary of the Vespa scooter, with over 300 Vespas participating, and the 50th anniversary of Barry Sheene's first world championship. The RAC TT Celebration presented by Dunlop race on Sunday is another major highlight.
Beyond the track, the Revival offers extensive shopping for motoring memorabilia, diverse food and drink options, and evening entertainment. A fairground, stalls, a drive-in movie, and live rock 'n' roll music continue the festivities 'Over the Road' from the main circuit.
Visitor numbers have grown significantly since the event's inception, with 150,000 attendees last year. The event runs from Friday to Sunday, with tickets and hospitality packages available. Children under 12 are admitted free, and those aged 13-21 receive a half-price discount. Parking is complimentary.
