Goodwood Festival of Speed 2026 Guide:
The Goodwood Festival of Speed (FoS) is one of the most celebrated events in the British motorsport calendar and a must-attend for any petrolhead or racing enthusiast. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Goodwood Estate in West Sussex, the festival offers a thrilling mix of historic vehicles, cutting-edge supercars, and motorsport legends from around the world. If you’re planning to attend in 2026, our Goodwood Festival of Speed guide will help you prepare for an unforgettable weekend.
A Brief History of the Festival of Speed
The Goodwood Festival of Speed was founded in 1993 by Lord March, Charles Gordon-Lennox, 11th Duke of Richmond, who wanted to revive racing at the historic Goodwood Circuit. Initially, Lord March was unable to obtain the necessary permit to race at the track, so he decided to host the event on the grounds of the estate instead.
The inaugural event featured invited entrants and historic vehicles, attracting a crowd of 25,000 on the same weekend as the Le Mans 24 Hours. Since then, the festival has expanded to a four-day celebration, including Full Throttle Thursday, competitive runs on Friday and Saturday, and the iconic Sunday Hillclimb Shootout, along with the Moving Motor Show introduced in 2010.
The Hillclimb Shootout: The Weekend’s Highlight
The Hillclimb Shootout on Sunday remains the pinnacle of the festival. Competitors race up the 1.16-mile course in pursuit of the fastest time of the day. Qualifying runs take place on Saturday, and the Sunday Shootout showcases both road and race cars, as well as motorcycles, in a dramatic display of speed and skill.
The event also provides a platform to see historic Formula 1 cars and modern concept vehicles in action. In recent years, record-breaking performances, such as Max Chilton’s 39.09-second run in the McMurtry Speirling electric concept car, have added to the festival’s excitement and prestige.
When & Where is the Festival Held?
The 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed will take place at Goodwood House, West Sussex, in the south-east of England. The nearest city is Chichester, just three miles away, making it convenient for those travelling from further afield.
Getting to the Festival
Due to its rural location, traffic can build quickly around Goodwood. It is often recommended to turn off satnav near the estate and follow official signage to the festival.
Public transport is also a practical option. Visitors can take a train to Chichester and then use festival shuttle buses or taxis to reach the estate. This can often save time and avoid lengthy traffic queues.
Where to Stay
Camping: For those attending multiple days, camping is available on three dedicated sites, suitable for tents, caravans, and motorhomes. The Family Campsite offers a child-friendly environment with shuttles to the festival, providing a quieter alternative to the main camping areas.
Hotels: Chichester and the surrounding area offer a variety of hotels, from budget options to luxury countryside inns such as the Chichester Harbour Hotel & Spa. Accommodation fills quickly, so it’s recommended to book early.
Making the Most of Your Festival Experience
The Festival of Speed is a full-day affair, with events taking place across four days. Highlights include:
- Full Throttle Thursday: A showcase of new cars and F1 machinery, often accompanied by an opening fireworks display
- Friday: First competitive timed runs of the weekend alongside more car exhibitions
- Saturday: Motorsport legends and current drivers arrive, with off-road and rally action taking place on separate arenas
- Sunday: The Hillclimb Shootout concludes the festival, alongside final opportunities to explore exhibits and the paddock
To make the most of your experience, arrive early and plan to stay throughout the day, particularly if you’re attending for just one day.
Festival Of Speed Dress Code & What to Pack
As an outdoor festival in Britain, the weather at Goodwood can be unpredictable. Even in summer, it is wise to pack:
- A lightweight raincoat or poncho
- Sun protection, including sunscreen and a hat
- Comfortable walking shoes for navigating the estate
- Layers to adapt to changing temperatures
Being prepared ensures you can enjoy every moment, regardless of the weather.
Goodwood Festival of Speed 2026 Hospitality
While standard tickets grant access to the general areas of the festival, Goodwood Festival of Speed hospitality offers a luxurious and relaxing way to enjoy the weekend. Hospitality packages include:
- Reserved tables with prime views of the Hillclimb
- Complimentary food and drinks throughout the day
- Access to exclusive lounges and shaded areas
- Opportunities to meet motorsport legends and industry insiders
For the full range of premium packages, including private tables and multi-day hospitality, contact the Gala Events team to explore options for 2026 and secure your ideal experience.
View Goodwood Festival Of Speed Hospitality Packages
Goodwood Festival of Speed Guide Summary
The Goodwood Festival of Speed 2026 is the ultimate celebration of British motorsport heritage, offering visitors a unique opportunity to see historic and modern cars, witness record-breaking performances, and enjoy the atmosphere alongside motorsport legends.
Top tips for a successful visit:
- Consider a premium hospitality package for a luxurious, stress-free experience
- Book accommodation early if attending multiple days
- Plan your transport in advance, whether driving or using public transport
- Arrive early and stay throughout the day to experience all aspects of the festival
- Be prepared for all weather conditions
With so much to see and do, the Festival of Speed promises a memorable weekend for car enthusiasts, families, and racing fans alike. Contact the Gala Events team today to explore hospitality packages and make your 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed experience one to remember.
