This September, we had the pleasure of attending the Goodwood Revival, an enchanting celebration of vintage racing, style, and nostalgia. Held annually at the historic Goodwood Circuit in West Sussex, this event is a unique tribute to the golden age of motor racing, particularly the 1940s through the early 1960s. It’s not just about the cars; it’s a full-blown experience that invites attendees to dress in period attire, immersing themselves in the history and glamour of the time.
Our Arrival and Accommodations
We kicked off our adventure with a one-night stay at Barrow Hill Barns, a charming collection of nine luxury barns and three lodges near Petersfield, Hampshire. We settled into Boxsteddle, a beautifully designed barn that boasted spacious interiors adorned with exposed wood beams, giving it a quintessential country style. The outdoor patio, complete with seating and a BBQ, made for a perfect retreat, especially for pet owners, as the accommodation is dog-friendly.
After settling in, we enjoyed a lovely first evening, preparing for the following day where we would dress up in our best 1940s attire.
Dressing Up for the Revival
The morning of the Revival began with excitement as we made our way to Goodwood via a VIP car service from the Goodwood Hotel, that we checked into that day after departing from Boxsteddle Barn. The atmosphere was electric, and it quickly became apparent how serious attendees take their costumes; I would say nearly 95% of the crowd was decked out in vintage wartime outfits, officer attire, and elegant 1940s evening wear.
Mark looked the part with his vintage tie, braces, brogue brown-and-white shoes, and hat. I opted for a turquoise 1940s knee-length dress, paired with brown heeled brogue shoes and a red beret. My outfit wasn’t complete without a visit to Betty’s, a charming on-site hairdresser specialising in 1940s hairstyles, where I emerged with stylish victory rolls held together by a myriad of hair grips.
A Day of Racing and Revelry
The day began with a bit of rain, potentially making the ground somewhat slippery for the vintage car races. God job we had our umbrellas. However, by early afternoon, the sun broke through, revealing clear blue skies and temperatures in the mid-20s, making it perfect for enjoying the races with a glass of champagne in hand.
We were seated at the Commanding Officers’ table within a beautifully decorated marquee, complete with vintage victory bunting, wooden panelled walls reminiscent of a wartime room, and charming decor. Our five-course meal was a treat, with each course selected from a thoughtfully curated menu, beautifully complemented by the continuous flow of champagne. Each table was adorned with flowers, Goodwood Revival souvenir programs, and earpieces for listening to the races while dining.
The quirky toilets added to the immersive experience, featuring a bunker-like design adorned with corrugated metal sheets, gas mask signs, and camouflage netting—truly a whimsical touch.
While many might see the Goodwood Revival as just a vintage car racing event, it transcends that, transforming into a grand spectacle of style and history. The effort put into outfits was remarkable, with attendees keenly engaging in people-watching and appreciating the craftsmanship behind each ensemble. The vintage cars themselves were a sight to behold, with many having been driven by famous drivers or featuring in iconic films, including James Bond classics.
A Fitting End to a Fantastic Day
By the time we returned to the Goodwood Hotel, we were completely stuffed from dinner and perhaps a bit tipsy from all the champagne. My immediate priority was to relieve my hair of all the pins that had held my victory curls in place throughout the day. Despite feeling exhausted, the day had been nothing short of fantastic, and I would highly recommend the Goodwood Revival to anyone looking for a unique and immersive experience.
Our hotel room at the Goodwood Hotel was spacious and inviting, with the most comfortable bed, providing the perfect setting to unwind after a day filled with memories.
