Goodwood; The cars, the class and the costumes.
From Jaguars to Cobras, The Ford RS200 to the series 1 Land Rover, Goodwood Revival has everything, and it’s not just the perfect day out for the avid car enthusiast, but it’s full of drama for the budding thespian or fancy dress aficionado.
Last weekend saw just over 150,000 spectators take to the track side to witness the golden age of motorsport race once again. The crowd were treated to various spectacles from the past including; old F1 cars, Cobras vs Jaguar E- Types, and even old motorcycles, to name but a few, and this year I had the privilege to witness it for myself.
Yes, bright and early on Sunday morning I donned on my frilly white ankle socks and rock chick dress to be amongst the crowds on the last day of racing. For those of you who have not yet been, Goodwood revival sees the best and the most eccentric of cars and clothes from the 1940s to the late 1960s. Normally a decade or year is picked for a memorable moment, which is to be the theme of the event. This year, inevitably it was the 1966 infamous England World Cup win over West Germany which provided the event with a great patriotic British feel.
In amongst some dramatic racing, a distinct smell of burning petrol, and the adrenalin fuelled by many V12 engines, the estate also plays host to a variety of vintage clothing, record and furnishing stores which make up the revival shopping. Butlins normally make an appearance, bringing with it its roller disco, providing hours of entertainment for children and adults alike. However if those four wheels don’t take your fancy, dotted in amongst the shopping tents are classic car showrooms and the Bonham’s Auction house, showcasing the best the industry has to offer.
Keeping in nicely with the period, the fairground provides a number of vintage attractions from carousels to coconut throwing, hard boiled sweets and candyfloss all surrounded by the harmonious playing of the organ. The food on offer is some of the best, providing a wide range to choose from, just to line the stomach ahead of a number of great period bars pubs and coffee houses available, including the great Sharp’s Doom Bar tent and the ‘Pub Over the Road’.
The sheer size and scale of the event is something worth seeing. Walking in from the car park you are immediately transported back in time, with the park ablaze with noise and colour. For those not willing to dress up unfortunately it’s a case of: if you’re not in period dress then you are the odd one out. It’s a spectacle where World War II soldiers walk alongside teddy boys, while land girls follow suit behind pink ladies and biker chicks. For those of you who are planning to attend next year, here are a few things to bear in mind:
Be prepared for all weathers. Last weekend saw the best and the worst of the British weather has to offer and the best. Bring those sun glasses and sun cream, while possibly packing the wellies and waterproof coats.
There is so much to see and enjoy, make sure you are comfortable, and maybe plan your time, whether it’s the whole weekend or just a day.
Pull out your bowler hat and poodle skirt, and enjoy. The costumes and atmosphere are incredible, not to mention the cars, those there to race as well as those driven by spectators that have dedicated so much time and effort to keep them running and motorsport alive.
