If you’ve never been to the Goodwood Revival before, or even if you have, there is so much to see and do that it’s nearly impossible to experience everything over the course of just one day.
There’s something for everyone, whether you’re attending as a hardcore motorsport fan, or simply looking forward to a frivolous and entertaining day out, but we thought it might be helpful to put together a list of our favourite places to hang out at the Revival.
THE PADDOCKS
Here at GRR we of course tend to gravitate towards the historic cars at the Revival, and there’s no better place to see them up close than in the main paddock. If ever you wanted to feel as though you were back in time attending an original Goodwood race meeting, this is arguably the best place to soak up the atmosphere.
You can surround yourself with many of the world’s most iconic racing cars, everything from Formula 1 legends to famous GTs and memorable American V8s. Submerge yourself in the sounds and smells of historic machinery, and watch on in awe of those who masterfully keep these cars in prime condition to compete in the Revival’s hectic motor racing schedule.
The main paddock at the Goodwood Revival is accessible only by GRRC Members, but there are few experiences in the world that can match a walk through this magical hive of activity at the very heart of the Motor Circuit.
REVIVAL CINEMA
If you’ve opted to spend the weekend at Goodwood, you may well need a spot of downtime to recharge the batteries, and how better to do that than by sitting back and watching a classic film?
The Revival Cinema is situated at the southernmost edge of the Over the Road area and is the perfect place to take the weight off in the comfort of a deck chair, or indeed the front seat of a classic car. It’s free to all ticket holders, and the perfect way to break up the day.
In 2025, cinema goers will be able to enjoy three films, The Italian Job, showing at 10:30 each day, Grease at 13:00 and 18:00 each day, and Dirty Dancing at 15:30 each day. Timeless classics we’re sure you’ll agree.
RICHMOND LAWN
If you’d rather stay within eyeshot of the cars, however, you could instead park yourself on the Richmond lawn, conveniently situated opposite the main paddocks and alongside Parc Ferme, where you’ll get a closer look at the cars as they cool off from their heated action on track.
If we weren’t busy working, we’d be taking shelter from the sunshine (it never rains at Goodwood) and sipping on a cold one courtesy of the Dutch Courage Pub while taking in the atmosphere and endless entertainment of the Revival. The Richmond Lawn Restaurant meanwhile is the perfect place to grab some lunch without having to stray too far from the cars.
GOODWOOD MESS
You don’t have to spend all day mixing it with the crowds at the Revival. We think there is something to be said for ducking inside one of Goodwood’s many hospitality locations for an altogether more premium experience.
As far as Revival goes, there are few more desirable spots to hang out than the Goodwood Mess. It’s positioned a few yards from the Assembly Area, where cars and bikes congregate before heading out on track, and most importantly gives you the best view of the start line, meaning you’ll be in the front row for each and every race start as the flag drops and engines roar.
It’s worth noting a spot in the Mess will set you back from £738 per person, but that price includes a prime position for soaking up the historic motorsport action, access to the paddocks, a private garden, breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea, not to mention unlimited drinks.
BETTY’S SALON
Part of what makes the Goodwood Revival so special are the displays of compete commitment to period dress, be it from the 1940s, ‘50s or ‘60s, all the way down to the finishing details of hair and makeup. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in an authentic Revival look, why not get a helping hand from the expert hair stylists at Betty’s Salon presented by Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
Whether you want to complete your outfit with victory rolls or a beehive, anyone who wants to look the part at the Revival is going to want to book some time in at Betty’s Salon. This experienced team of stylists are world famous for their work at Goodwood, and the event simply wouldn’t be the same without the authentic results of their labour.
There are two salon locations at the Revival — one in the High Street, and one by Richmond Lawn, but appointment spaces are limited so if you want your opportunity in the salon then you’d better book it quick. Appointments can be booked at: enquiries@bettysatgoodwood.co.uk
REVIVAL STYLE VILLAGE
Once you’re looking your best, you’ll be ready to dive into the Revival lifestyle with a visit to the Revive & Thrive area which includes the High Street and the Revival Style Village. It’s impossible not to enjoy yourself when you venture into this labyrinth of ‘40s, ‘50s and ‘60s culture.
Only Goodwood could recreate that period with such authenticity, and the various elements of Revive & Thrive will give you the opportunity to listen to talks and get hands-on experience as many of the world’s most inspirational personalities encourage you to rethink, repair and re-wear.
If you have a particularly keen eye for fashion, you might also be interested in trying your hand in the Best Dressed competition, held at 15:00 each day, which this year will be judged by Dita Von Teese among others. And, if you’re looking for style inspiration ahead of the event, then be sure to join the Revival Style community.
LAVANT CORNER
Finally, we think the opportunity to walk around the full length of the Goodwood Motor Circuit is one of the more underrated aspects of the Revival, and the views from the outside of Lavant Corner are a worthwhile reward for anyone who makes the journey.
If the weather’s good, we thoroughly recommend a slow jaunt around Madgwick, Fordwater and St. Mary’s corners, each giving you a unique view of the action on track as the world’s greatest historic machinery flies past at remarkable speeds. You can of course opt to catch a lift on one of Goodwood’s tractor rides if you’d rather save the steps, but either way, it’ll be time well spent once you arrive at Lavant.
It is without fail a brilliant place to watch motorsport, its heavy braking zone makes for guaranteed overtaking opportunities, and a chance to see each and every one of these drivers showcase their immeasurable talents of car control.
A trip to all these spots is exactly how we’d spend our time at Revival, if we weren’t busy providing exclusive coverage of the event as it unfolds. But while you’re at the Goodwood Motor Circuit you should absolutely make sure to check out each of these special locations to maximise your experience of this most special of weekends.
Tickets for the Goodwood Revival are limited! Saturday tickets have sold out, so secure your Friday and Sunday tickets to avoid missing out on the world’s best historic motorsport event.
Photography by Dominic James, Amy Shore, Stephen Hayward, Jonathan James Wilson, Toby Adamson, Raife Smith, Matt Sills, Jochen van Cauwenberg, Steven Stringer and Drew Gibson.
Report by Simon Ostler for goodwood.com
