Goodwood Racecourse Guide

Goodwood bills itself as 'the most beautiful racecourse in the world' and any viewing of the Sussex-based gem would help make a compelling argument for such a status.

Here we have put together the ultimate Goodwood racecourse guide for everything you need to know about this iconic racing venue.

Goodwood Racecourse Location

Where is Goodwood?

Goodwood Racecourse is located on the South Downs near Chichester, in West Sussex.

How to get to Goodwood Racecourse

By Train

The nearest railway station is Chichester, which is well connected with regular services from London Victoria, Brighton, Portsmouth and Southampton.

From Chichester Station, a free shuttle bus service runs on major race days to and from the racecourse, with a journey time of around 20 minutes.

By Bus

Bus services to Chichester are available from surrounding areas, and special race-day shuttle services also run from the city centre and train station to Goodwood.

By Car

• From London: Take the A3(M) south, join the A27 at Havant, and follow signs for Goodwood near Chichester.
• From the West: Use the M27, join the A27 eastbound and follow directions towards Goodwood.
• From the East: Travel along the A27 towards Chichester and follow signs to the racecourse.

Goodwood Racecourse Layout

Track Layout

Goodwood features a right-handed, undulating course with a straight six-furlong track known for its unique contours and testing nature.

There is no full circuit, which makes long-distance races more tactically challenging for runners. The course is used exclusively for flat racing, with distances ranging from five furlongs to two miles and five furlongs.

The famous slope of the final straight, combined with its sweeping bends, makes Goodwood a real test of speed, stamina and positioning.

Enclosures and Viewing Areas

The list of enclosures and viewing areas at Goodwood Racecourse includes:

• Richmond Enclosure
• Gordon Enclosure
• Lennox Enclosure
• March Grandstand 
• Sussex Roof Garden

Key Races at Goodwood

Sussex Stakes

A Group 1 mile race for three-year-olds and older, the Sussex Stakes is one of the highlights of the British flat racing calendar. It regularly attracts the top milers from across Europe.

Goodwood Cup

This prestigious Group 1 staying race takes place over 2m and is part of the British Champions Series. It’s a key target for the best long-distance horses and forms part of the Stayers’ Triple Crown.

Stewards’ Cup

A fiercely competitive 6f handicap that draws a large field, the Stewards’ Cup is a staple of the Glorious Goodwood meeting and a favourite among punters.

Nassau Stakes

A Group 1 race for fillies and mares over 1m 2f, the Nassau Stakes attracts top-class middle-distance females and is one of the leading races of its kind in Europe.

Goodwood Racecourse History

Goodwood Racecourse Opening Date

Goodwood Racecourse was opened in May 1801 on land belonging to the Duke of Richmond, who was seeking to entertain his friends with some summer sport.

When was the first Glorious Goodwood?

The annual highlight of the racing calendar at Goodwood is 'Glorious Goodwood', a five-day festival typically held in late July or early August.

Glorious Goodwood was established in 1823 and has been a standout feature in the UK racing calendar ever since.