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Held annually in July on the grounds of the Goodwood Estate in West Sussex, the Goodwood Festival of Speed is where motorsport tradition meets modern luxury. It is not just an automotive showcase – it’s a curated experience for collectors, high-net-worth individuals, and those with a passion for performance, innovation, and exclusivity.
Legacy Meets Lifestyle
Established in 1993 by the Duke of Richmond, the Festival of Speed was created as a revival of historic hillclimb racing. Today, it is considered Europe’s most important motoring garden party, drawing an international audience of collectors, racing legends, designers, and high-end manufacturers.
The estate itself, an 11,000-acre property surrounding Goodwood House, offers the ideal setting: manicured lawns, Georgian architecture, and a private airstrip that reinforces the event’s stature.
What to Expect in 2025
This year’s edition, taking place from 10 to 13 July, marks 75 years of Formula 1. Over 100 Formula 1 cars will be showcased, from Fangio’s early Grand Prix machines to recent world championship winners. The roster of appearances includes motorsport icons, engineering experts, and executives from luxury car brands, many of whom offer invite-only previews and closed-door discussions to select guests.
The Main Attractions
The Hillclimb
The centrepiece of the festival, the 1.16-mile Hillclimb course, challenges drivers to set record-breaking times in everything from pre-war Bentleys to concept hypercars. The Sunday Shootout is particularly popular, attracting top-tier racing talent and unprecedented speed demonstrations.
Manufacturer Reveals and Supercar Paddock
Major reveals happen here first. In 2025, McLaren, Aston Martin, and Lamborghini are expected to debut ultra-limited models, some with production runs of fewer than 50 units, available exclusively to invited clients. The Supercar Paddock allows close-up access to these launches, often accompanied by private viewings for preferred guests.
Future Lab and EV Innovation
For those with a forward-looking focus, Future Lab remains a key attraction in 2025. It presents cutting-edge technology across robotics, AI, sustainable design, and aerospace innovation, with interactive exhibits from leading global pioneers.
While Electric Avenue — previously dedicated to high-performance electric vehicles — will not be featured this year, select manufacturers are expected to showcase next-generation EVs within their own pavilions and displays.
Forest Rally Stage and F1 Pit Lane
The Forest Rally Stage delivers a raw, tactile contrast to the main event, featuring WRC cars and rally legends. Meanwhile, the Formula 1 Pit Lane houses cars from every era, often accompanied by current drivers and team principals for meet-and-greets in select hospitality zones.
Hospitality and VIP Experiences
For guests seeking a premium experience, Goodwood’s hospitality is among the best in the world. Tiered packages offer elevated vantage points, tailored cuisine, and high-touch service. Top-tier options include:
- Clark Pavilion: Overlooking Molecomb Corner, with five-star menus, sommelier-selected wines, and private terraces.
- Library Lawn Garden Party: Intimate setting in the Duke of Richmond’s private garden, featuring afternoon tea, champagne service, and priority access to the House.
- Surtees Pavilion: A more contemporary affair, offering mixologist-led cocktail bars, curated live entertainment, and direct access to the track edge.
Many guests choose to arrive via private helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft, landing directly on the estate’s private runway. Valet parking, chauffeur service, and personal concierges are standard in higher-tier packages.
Dress Code and Essentials
The dress code is elegant yet informal. Smart summer tailoring, luxury sports watches, and performance sunglasses are the norm. Women favour designer dresses, elevated flats, and refined accessories. In VIP areas, a polished presentation is assumed. Branded paddock passes, hospitality wristbands, and security details are discreet but tightly managed.
Accommodation and Travel
Local luxury hotels book out quickly. Preferred properties for festival attendees include The Goodwood Hotel (on-site), South Lodge, and Coworth Park. Bespoke travel itineraries often include London-based stays with same-day helicopter transfers. Discretion and efficiency are prioritised.
The Goodwood Estate Year-Round
For those captivated by the estate’s charm, Goodwood offers year-round membership options, country pursuits, and wellness retreats. Activities include golf, clay shooting, vintage aviation, and organic farm dining. Many return not only for the Festival of Speed but also for the Revival, Qatar Goodwood Festival (horse racing), and private estate events.
More than a Celebration
The Goodwood Festival of Speed is more than a motorsport celebration; it is a curated ecosystem of performance, heritage, and luxury living. It offers rare access to the inner circles of automotive culture, where ownership meets opportunity, and where every detail is designed to exceed expectations.
