There’s something about the sound of engines echoing through the Sussex countryside that makes the Goodwood Festival of Speed an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a motorsport enthusiast, a vintage car admirer, or simply a family in search of a fun-filled summer outing, this iconic event offers something for everyone. And if you’re staying nearby in one of our Wellies & Windbreaks cottages, you’ve got the perfect base for a day or weekend soaked in horsepower, heritage, and sunshine. The combination of high-octane excitement and the charm of the West Sussex countryside makes this festival truly unique.
Held each July in the grounds of the Goodwood Estate, the Festival of Speed is one of the biggest motoring events in the world. It’s part hill climb, part car show, and part garden party, with just the right amount of oil-scented nostalgia. The event draws a mix of modern supercars, historic racing machines, and electric innovations, all roaring—or whispering—up the famous hill climb route in front of a thrilled crowd. It’s not just about the cars either; the festival is a celebration of engineering, design, and human ingenuity. Each year, you’ll see unique exhibits, concept vehicles, and sometimes even celebrity appearances, making it a magnet for car enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.
For families, the wide open spaces, impressive displays, and immersive exhibits make it much more than a typical day out. It’s a hands-on, eyes-wide-open adventure where children and adults alike can marvel at the mechanics, learn about automotive history, and even try some interactive driving simulators. Many families find that a visit sparks curiosity in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in a fun and engaging way.
Comfort meets countryside style is our motto, and the Goodwood Festival of Speed is the perfect place to show off that balance. The weather can be unpredictable—this is England, after all—so layering is key. Think:
Light cottons or linen shirts
Breathable waterproof jackets
Sturdy footwear—you’ll be on your feet most of the day
Sun hats and sunglasses for that classic summer look
And of course, don’t forget the wellies if rain’s been forecast or just in case. Even on sunny days, morning dew and trodden grass can turn paths into a bit of a squelch. It’s all part of the charm, and kids love splashing through it. A small backpack with snacks, a water bottle, and a portable sunshade can make the day even more comfortable.
Staying at one of our coastal cottages puts you within easy driving distance, roughly 20 to 30 minutes depending on your location. We recommend arriving early to beat the queues and soak up the excitement as the day begins. Prebook your tickets and parking in advance, as this is one event that fills up fast. For those driving, note that traffic management is excellent but busy, so allowing extra time is always wise. If you’re using public transport, there are shuttle services from nearby stations which add a touch of convenience while avoiding parking stress.
Top tip: bring a folding picnic chair or rug and scout out a shady spot to regroup during the day. Many families bring binoculars to catch the action from the hill climb, and a small camera is ideal for snapping the colourful cars and the smiles of the kids.
The Hill Climb
The heart of the event: watch cars old and new roar up the driveway, cheered on by crowds lining the route. Kids love the noise and drama, especially when Formula One cars take their turn, and adults often find themselves reminiscing about classic motorsport moments.
Family Zone
You’ll find interactive exhibits, climbing walls, and STEM-inspired games that keep the younger ones entertained between engine revs. There are arts and crafts stations, vehicle-themed workshops, and plenty of shaded rest areas where families can relax.
Future Lab & Electric Avenue
A fascinating look at the future of transport, this indoor section features tech demonstrations, concept cars, and eco innovations. It’s ideal for curious minds and a handy spot if a short rain shower rolls in. Kids and adults alike can learn about electric mobility, autonomous vehicles, and sustainable engineering in a fun and engaging environment.
The Paddocks
Get up close to the machines. This is where you’ll see drivers prepping, the cars cooling down, and mechanics tinkering—an educational goldmine and a dream for budding engineers. Photographs are encouraged, and many visitors enjoy speaking with the teams about the vehicles, giving a real behind-the-scenes perspective.
There’s a range of food vendors to suit every palate, from wood-fired pizzas to gourmet burgers and artisan coffee. That said, bringing your own picnic is a lovely, budget-friendly option too. Our favourites:
Fresh sandwiches and local strawberries packed from East Wittering shops
Homemade lemonade in thermos flasks
Sausage rolls, crisps, and flapjacks—always a hit with kids
Don’t forget reusable water bottles; refill stations are dotted around the grounds, keeping everyone hydrated as the day heats up.
After a long, energising day, there’s nothing better than heading home to your peaceful coastal base. Kick off your boots, light up the BBQ, or simply curl up in a garden chair with a chilled drink while the kids relive the day’s highlights. Staying near West Wittering means you can pair high-octane adventures with laid-back beach mornings, wildlife walks, and salt-air evenings. The Festival of Speed becomes part of a longer break filled with excitement as well as relaxation.
When: 9 – 12 July 2026 – book your tickets today – https://www.goodwood.com/motorsport/festival-of-speed/tickets-and-packages/
Where: Goodwood Estate, near Chichester, West Sussex
Parking: Must be pre-booked with your ticket
What to bring: Tickets, ID, sun cream, hats, snacks, picnic rug, ear defenders for young children, and fully charged phones or cameras
The Goodwood Festival of Speed isn’t just for petrolheads. It’s a festival of engineering, design, family fun, and the great British countryside. From the thunder of engines to the joy of sharing ice cream while watching the world go by, it’s a day full of contrast and delight. Whether you’re a regular visitor or new to the event, staying at a Wellies & Windbreaks cottage transforms your Festival of Speed experience into the perfect West Sussex holiday, combining thrills with the relaxed charm of the coast.
For our full availability over this weekend, take a look at our website for live availability and booking – https://welliesandwindbreaks.co.uk/all-availability/
