Nestled in the picturesque South Downs of West Sussex, Goodwood Racecourse stands as a beacon of British horse racing heritage. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and a reputation for elegance, it’s no wonder that the Qatar Goodwood Festival, commonly referred to as 'Glorious Goodwood,' is one of the most anticipated events in the British social calendar. But how did this esteemed racecourse earn its 'glorious' name? And why is there a relaxed dress code? Read on to discover what makes Goodwood Racecourse so unique.
Goodwood, originally known as ‘Godinwood,’ was first mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. The name probably derives from the Saxon Goduinus. However, it wasn't until the late 16th century that it became an established estate. The origins of Glorious Goodwood date back to 1801, when the third Duke of Richmond arranged a private race meeting for local army officers on “The Harroway,” a narrow ridge on top of the South Downs. The success of this event led to the establishment of public racing the following year, making Goodwood a significant fixture in British horse racing history.
During the 19th century, the term "Glorious Goodwood" was coined by the press as the event became a highlight of the summer season. Edward VII, who attended most years, famously described Glorious Goodwood as “a garden party with racing tacked on.” Over the years, Glorious Goodwood has attracted a host of celebrities and high-profile figures, from aristocrats and royalty to movie stars and athletes. The legendary actress and style icon Audrey Hepburn attended the festival in the 1960s, and Queen Elizabeth II graced the event on several occasions, further cementing its status as a premier social event. Positioned on the rolling hills of the South Downs, Goodwood is also renowned for its stunning panoramic views, which contribute to its 'glorious' reputation.
For over 200 years, Goodwood has been a key event in the sporting calendar, notable for both its racing and the attire of its attendees. In 1837, a sporting magazine was taken by the ‘array of beauty, rank, and fashion’ displayed at that year’s summer meeting. In the early 20th century, ‘frocks and frills for Goodwood’ and ‘the veritable triumphs of the milliner’s art’ – hats – leapt out of the pages of The Tatler.
However, it was King Edward VII who played a pivotal role in shaping the relaxed dress code at Goodwood. The King was concerned that the event was being undermined by those attempting to turn it into a fashion show, and in 1904, he turned up in a white silk top hat instead of a regulation black one. The custom that male fashion followed the King led tailors in London to be bombarded with orders from high society members wanting to mimic the King's style. Two years later, in 1906, Edward completed the sartorial downgrade with a switch from a morning suit to a lounge suit. Bright colours were royally encouraged, with Edward pairing a pink shirt with lavender gloves in 1904, which attracted some comment! Today, men are typically found in linen suits with Panama hats, and women in brightly coloured, often floral dresses, reinforcing the garden party atmosphere.
During the First and Second World Wars, horse racing at Goodwood was suspended, and the racecourse was repurposed for military use. After World War II, the Duke of Richmond revived the racing tradition at Goodwood. In 1948, Freddie March, the 9th Duke of Richmond, an avid motorsport enthusiast, converted the perimeter track of the Royal Air Force Westhampnett airfield, used during World War II, into a racing circuit. The motor circuit was active for competitive racing until 1966 and was later revived in 1998 as part of the Goodwood Revival, an annual event that celebrates the golden era of motorsport from the 1940s to the 1960s. Another major event, the Goodwood Festival of Speed, takes place annually on the Goodwood estate, featuring a hill climb event and celebrating modern and historic motor racing. These events further solidify Goodwood's status as a premier location for both horse and motor racing.
Goodwood Racecourse has also been at the forefront of numerous innovations that have shaped the world of horse racing including:
What makes 'Glorious Goodwood' to you? Is it the world class racing on a summer day? Is it the estate’s rich history, relaxed dress code, or the stunning views of Goodwood Racecourse? To me, it's a mixture of all of the above and seeing my clients enjoying themselves in their 'Isabella Josie' hats creating memories that will last a lifetime.
