A beautifully preserved circuit on the grounds of Goodwood Estate. Host of the Revival and Festival of Speed, it celebrates motoring heritage in an atmosphere of timeless elegance and thrilling historic racing.
Goodwood Motor Circuit is a permanent racing circuit in Chichester, West Sussex. The lap measures 3.862 km (2.4 miles) across 9 corners, run clockwise.
It opened in 1948. Series racing here include GT and Road Course.
The circuit is the perimeter road of an airfield. RAF Westhampnett operated as a Battle of Britain station from 1940 to 1946, and when it closed Freddie March — the 9th Duke of Richmond, and a competent racing driver himself — had its perimeter track turned into a racing circuit. He opened it in September 1948 by driving a Bristol 400 around the lap. The first meeting, on 18 September, drew 85 drivers and more than 15,000 spectators, and was the first professionally organised motor race in postwar Britain.
Goodwood was central to British racing for the next eighteen years, then closed to contemporary competition in August 1966 rather than make the safety changes faster cars demanded. It never fell derelict — testing and track days continued throughout — and in 1998, fifty years after opening, it reopened for the first Goodwood Revival, which races only cars and motorcycles of the 1948-1966 period.
6 curated properties, sorted by distance from the circuit
HOTEL · $$ · 2.3 km from circuit
The estate's own hotel set within 12,000 acres, the definitive Goodwood Revival and Festival of Speed stay. Goodwood Motor Circuit is a 4-minute drive away. Facilities include golf, spa, and restaurant.
Visit websiteBOUTIQUE · $$ · 4.0 km from circuit
Stylish city-centre hotel in Chichester with rooftop spa, 8 minutes from the Goodwood Estate. Facilities include restaurant and bar.
Visit websiteRESORT · 12.7 km from circuit
Visit websiteRESORT · 17.4 km from circuit
Visit websiteHOTEL · 30.9 km from circuit
Visit websiteHOTEL · 39.3 km from circuit
Visit websiteNearest Airport: Southampton Airport (SOU) — approximately 44 km from the circuit
Direct trains reach Chichester from Brighton, Portsmouth and London, the latter taking about 1h30. A shuttle bus runs between Chichester station and the event gate, roughly 07:00-20:00 for the Festival of Speed and later into the evening for the Revival. The shuttle needs a separate ticket bought as you board.
Hotels near Goodwood Motor Circuit typically sell out 2-4 months before major race weekends, including the race weekend. For the best rates and widest selection, book as soon as race dates are officially confirmed. Early bookers can save 30-50% compared to last-minute rates.
Expect to pay $100-300 per night during race weekends, compared to $60-150 during off-peak periods. Properties within 5km of the circuit command the highest premiums. Consider hotels in Chichester centre for better value — the slightly longer commute is offset by lower rates, more dining options, and a livelier atmosphere in the evenings.
Flexible cancellation policies are worth the small premium — race weekends can be rescheduled. Many hotels near Goodwood Motor Circuit offer free cancellation up to 48-72 hours before check-in during race weekends.
Visiting Goodwood Motor Circuit for a race weekend? Here are essential tips to make the most of your trip to Chichester, West Sussex.
Goodwood Motor Circuit is located in Chichester, West Sussex. The nearest airport (SOU) is approximately 44 km away. Most hotels near the circuit are within a 5-30 minute drive.
We recommend browsing all 6 curated properties above to find the best match for your budget, travel style, and race weekend plans. Each property has been selected for its proximity to the circuit and quality of service.
Expect to pay $100-300 per night during major race weekends at Goodwood Motor Circuit, compared to $60-150 during off-peak periods. Booking 2-4 months in advance typically secures the best rates.
Yes, Goodwood Motor Circuit provides parking facilities for race weekend visitors. Parking fills up quickly on race day — arriving before 8am is recommended. Many visitors prefer to book hotels with parking included.
For the best rates and availability, book your accommodation 2-4 months before the race weekend at Goodwood Motor Circuit. Hotels within 10km of the circuit sell out first.