A Guide To Goodwood Revival

This September, some of the world’s fastest and rarest cars will race at Goodwood for its annual Revival event. But this isn’t your average car festival: it’s also the only motor race to be staged entirely in period theme. Guests are invited to don outfits inspired by the post-war era of 1948 – 1966 – the heyday of Goodwood Motor Circuit, and an iconic time for the fashion world. It’s a celebration of spectacular cars and sartorial history, every year playing host to a string of famous faces from the world of motorsport and beyond. Although tickets are almost sold out, a few hospitality packages are still available, offering an elevated way to enjoy the event. Here’s everything you need to know.

Goodwood Revival 2024: What To See And Do

Goodwood Revival is a three-day motorsport festival which has been running for the last 26 years, and plans to run for the next 26 too. It is now one of the world’s most celebrated historic motor racing events, attracting fans from across the globe who flock there to soak up the unique atmosphere in their best period clothing.

The event returns from 6th to 8th September 2024, with another exciting line-up of racing to watch. Visitors will have the chance to witness hundreds of rare cars driven by champions past and present, who will be competing for prestigious trophies including the Royal Automobile Club TT Celebration, and (arguably the most competitive race of the weekend) the Settrington Cup children’s pedal car race. Sunday is set to be particularly special for motorsport enthusiasts, seeing overall winners crowned as the racing comes to a close for the weekend.

This year, Goodwood will be honouring eight-time world champion John Surtees, 60 years on from his Formula 1 World Championship. The festival will look back on his extraordinary motorsport career, bringing together cars and bikes from the many disciplines he competed in.

Alongside the racing, guests can enjoy a whole host of activities, including a vintage funfair, a drive-in cinema showing classic films, vintage shopping, al fresco feasts and more.

Goodwood Revival has always championed an eco-friendly ethos through its ‘Revive & Thrive’ ethos, but for 2024 its upping its environmental credits further. For the first time, the entire weekend is set to take place exclusively using sustainable fuel – a world first and no doubt a landmark moment in historic motorsport history.

Hospitality Packages

Goodwood Revival is renowned for its unique hospitality packages, which act as a perfect base for the day, alongside providing top-class views of the racing and special access to get up close to cars and drivers, as well as food and drink.

The Barracks

For a more relaxed way to enjoy the event, book The Barracks, which offers access to a private space with its own garden area. You’ll have easy access to the track action along the Lavant Straight too, plus brunch, afternoon cakes and soft drinks. From £318pp, book here

Goodwood Mess

This special package offers access to banked trackside viewing, next to the start/finish line – the perfect place to catch all the racing action. Guests will also be treated to breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and a champagne reception – plus unlimited wine, beer and soft drinks, and paddock access, allowing you to get close to all the cars, motorcycles, drivers and mechanics. This is the perfect package for anyone looking to be at the heart of all the action. From £684pp, book here

The Putting Green

The Putting Green package gives you access to an idyllic canopied area in one of Goodwood’s members’ clubs, The Kennels. With private parking, early admission and roving grandstand access, this is a great way to get the most out of your experience – made all the better with a brunch buffet, afternoon tea and unlimited wine, beer and soft drinks. From £510pp, book here

What Is the Dress Code?

Vintage style is a pivotal part of the event, with a focus on reviving the outfits of the ‘40s, ‘50s and ‘60s. There are plenty of routes you could go down with the theme. ‘Referencing the sharp tailoring and heritage fabrics of the post-war era as well as the more functional garbs of motor sport heroes, the Revival look is full of elegance, wit and timeless classics,’ reads the festival’s website. If you’re looking for somewhere to dress in all your finery and make a statement, look no further: Revival is the perfect place.

Guests are encouraged to be creative: rethink, repair and re-wear is the tagline – with plenty of inspiration showcased in the Revive & Thrive hub, where you can find interviews on hot topics in the second-hand style world by icons such as Dita Von Teese.

Make sure you don’t forget about accessories, too: ‘weave a silk scarf through halo braids, or wear vintage spectacles on a chain around your neck – an innately fabulous piece never dates.’ In terms of what to avoid, visitors are discouraged from wearing ‘controversial uniforms or culturally appropriate items.’

Looking for some inspiration? Here are a few ideas below, shared by the Goodwood Revival team. 

1940s

• Spearpoint collar shirt
• Pleated notch-back trousers
• Fair isle knitted tank top
• Wide swing tie
• Utility style jeans
• Pussy bow blouse with gathered shoulders
• Loose cut ladies’ trousers with a tapered leg and seam down the front
• Bakelite brooches

1950s

• Bomber jacket
• Hawaiian shirt
• Two-tone brogues
• Voluminous skirts
• Pencil skirt in plaid or houndstooth
• Fine knit sweaters and cardigans
• Elastic cinch belt with clasp buckle

1960s

• Bell bottom trousers
• Black polo neck jumper
• Beret
• Paisley print shirt
• Chelsea boots
• Pillbox hat with a bow
• Skirt suit with a single-breasted jacket
• Swing coat with an oversized collar

How To Book

Find out more and book tickets at goodwood.com