Qatar Goodwood Festival gets underway
Glorious Goodwood, a hallmark of the Sussex summer calendar, returns from July 30th to August 3rd. This event, known as the Qatar Goodwood Festival, brings together an exceptional blend of sporting excitement and social festivities over five action-packed days. Esteemed by both the Quay Quarters community and a wide array of visitors, the festival is set in one of the world's most beautiful racecourses, offering a picturesque backdrop to this iconic flat racing event.
Location and Accommodation
The festival's prime location, just a short drive from Quay Quarters' luxurious holiday cottages and bed & breakfast accommodations in West Sussex, makes it a convenient and ideal destination for racegoers. Whether you're planning a single-day visit or intend to immerse yourself in the entire week's festivities, Goodwood provides a perfect retreat with accommodations starting at £25. The nearby Quay Quarters offers a comfortable base, with a variety of packages available to enhance your festival experience.
Day-by-Day Festival Highlights
Day 1 (July 30):
The festival opens with a grand ceremony, setting the stage for an unforgettable week. The parade of last year's winning horses, along with the unveiling of new cups for 2019's top racers, adds to the event's pageantry. The day's highlight is the £500,000 Group 1 Qatar Goodwood Cup, a race that promises thrilling competition and high stakes.
Day 2 (July 31):
The excitement escalated with the £1,000,000 Qatar Sussex Stakes, one of the festival's marquee races, attracting top competitors and showcasing world-class equestrian talent. The day's lineup also includes two additional group races, offering a full slate of high-calibre racing.
Ladies' Day (August 1):
A focal point of the festival, Ladies' Day is celebrated as much for its vibrant fashion as for its sporting spectacle. The day begins with the Magnolia Cup, a ladies' charity race that combines philanthropy with competition. The £600,000 Qatar Nassau Stakes, a premier race of the day, draws significant attention. Visitors are encouraged to embrace the festive spirit with elegant attire, making it a day of glamour and prestige.
Day 4 (August 2):
The festival continues with the anticipation of the Best Dressed award, featuring glamorous prizes such as an all-expenses-paid holiday to South Africa. This day also includes several high-profile races, contributing to the overall excitement and energy of the event.
Day 5 (August 3):
The festival culminates with the £250,000 Qatar Stewards Cup, a thrilling six-furlong race that captures the crowd's imagination. This iconic event offers spectators a chance to witness some of the sport's fastest horses competing in a breathtaking display of speed and agility.
Enclosure Options
Richmond Enclosure:
Reserved for members, this exclusive area provides unparalleled views of the Parade Ring and Racecourse, including a vantage point opposite the winning post. Guests can enjoy luxurious dining options and access to both the Gordon and Lennox Enclosures.
Gordon Enclosure:
As the premier public section, the Gordon Enclosure offers access to the Parade Ring, viewing from within the March Grandstand, and comfortable seating within the Sussex Stand. With a variety of bars, restaurants, and casual dining options, it caters to diverse tastes. Tickets start at £41.
Lennox Enclosure:
This family-friendly area is popular for its relaxed atmosphere, children's playground, and expansive picnic spots. Traditional food and beverages are available, though glass bottles and alcohol are not permitted. Lennox Enclosure patrons do not have access to other enclosures, and tickets start at £20.
Fashion and Dining
The festival's dress code adds a touch of elegance to the event. Men are encouraged to wear jackets and ties, particularly in the Richmond and Gordon Enclosures, while women are advised to choose stylish, season-appropriate outfits. The festival's fashion guide suggests trends such as florals, stripes, or pastel hues, with dresses being a popular choice for comfort and style.
Dining at Goodwood offers something for everyone. The Secret Garden, Charlton Hunt, and Final Furlong restaurants provide gourmet experiences with stunning views. The Sussex Bistro offers a traditional carvery, and the Member & Guest restaurants, like Double Trigger and The Horsewalk Restaurant, emphasize locally sourced ingredients and elegant British cuisine.
Accommodation and Accessibility
Park House in Bepton offers luxurious accommodations amidst a serene setting, perfect for festival attendees. The hotel, known for its warm, familial atmosphere and beautiful grounds, includes amenities like a spa, golf course, and fine dining.
Travel Information
Located just outside Chichester, Goodwood Racecourse is easily accessible, approximately 60 miles from London. Visitors can reach the festival by car, following the A3 and A285, or by train, with regular services from London Victoria and coastal routes from Brighton and Portsmouth. Buses and taxis are available from Chichester Station, providing convenient transportation to the racecourse.
For those who can't make it to this year's Qatar Goodwood Festival, the Goodwood estate hosts other major events such as the Goodwood Revival and the Festival of Speed, offering a variety of experiences from vintage car displays to period fashion and more. These events provide a fantastic alternative, showcasing the unique charm and excitement of the Goodwood Estate.