What is the Goodwood Festival of Speed?
The Goodwood Festival of Speed is one of the world’s most iconic motorsport events, where the past, present and future intersect. Find out everything you need to know about the event below.
What is the Goodwood Festival of Speed?
The Goodwood Festival of Speed is an annual celebration of motorsport and car culture, featuring everything from vintage automobiles to the latest supercars. It takes place every summer on the 12,000-acre Goodwood Estate in West Sussex across four days.
Unlike many car events that happen on racetracks, the centrepiece of the festival is the Hillclimb – a time trial where drivers speed up a narrow, winding driveway lined with hay bales, trees, and cheering crowds with the goal of completing the course in the fastest time possible.
When and where is it held?
The Festival of Speed typically occurs in late June or early July every year. It’s hosted at Goodwood Estate, the historic home of the Duke of Richmond. In 2026, it will take place 9th-12th July.
The setting is part of the charm. Goodwood offers a unique backdrop for roaring engines and sleek vehicles.
What can you see and do there?
The event is packed with attractions for visitors of all ages and interests, not just racing fans. Here are some highlights:
Hillclimb shootout
The heart of the event. Watch professional drivers and motorsport legends tackle the 1.17-mile uphill course in everything from classic cars to Formula 1 machines.
The F1 paddock
Get up close to legendary cars, from historic classics to the latest machinery, see the evolution of the sport up close. This year’s Festival of Speed theme is yet to be announced, but last year saw the celebration of the Formula 1 75th Anniversary.
Car launches and debuts
Be amongst the first to see the newest cars on their stands and blasting up the Hillclimb.
See tomorrow’s technology
Get a glimpse into the future with displays in the Future Lab presented by Randox including electric vehicles, autonomous cars and mobility innovations.
Aviation displays
Goodwood has its own airfield, so you’ll often see flyovers and aerial stunt displays by the likes of the Red Arrows.
How to attend
For the ultimate Goodwood experience, visitors can choose between a range of Goodwood Festival of Speed hospitality tickets for enhanced access and comfort. You can view ticket options here.
The Goodwood Festival of Speed is more than just a motorsport event – it’s a unique blend of history, innovation, and spectacle. Whether you’re a seasoned gearhead or simply curious about fast cars and British culture, it offers something for everyone.
So, if you’re in the UK during the summer and want an unforgettable experience, Goodwood should be on your bucket list.
Why Book with Salone Events?
With a reputation built on consistent five-star reviews, Salone Events is trusted for its personal, bespoke approach. Booking with us ensures there are no hidden costs, only seamless service from enquiry to post-event.
We’re specialists of Goodwood and Official Hospitality Partners of the Goodwood Estate. With nothing other than 5 star reviews and at no additional cost, we ensure from booking through to post event you receive a personalised service bespoke to you. We can assist with other requirements if needed, such as accommodation, travel and reservations.