Goodwood Festival of Speed: Why I Keep Going Back
Moderate challenge
Why I Wanted to Go
The Festival of Speed has become, in my mind at least, the greatest motorsport event in the world. Goodwood had sat on my bucket list for years, and finally being able to go — twice now — has meant more to me than I’d expected.
For me, events like this aren’t just about accessibility; they’re about what I think of as accessible challenge — that mix of planning, courage, curiosity and joy that pushes you a little beyond what feels comfortable, but rewards you with something unforgettable.
Getting There
My first visit was with a carer, and we used blue-badge parking — straightforward on a dry day, though the field setting would be difficult in wet weather. The second year, I travelled completely solo by train, which made the day feel even more personal and affirming.
At Chichester station, the signage to the event buses wasn’t as clear as it could have been, but the staff were brilliant and pointed me straight in the right direction.
First Impressions and Wayfinding
Goodwood is vast and easy to get disoriented in, especially when the crowds start building. Temporary pathways help, and staff — clearly identifiable and genuinely attentive — are positioned throughout the site.
Accessible Viewing: Platforms, Support and Confidence
The accessible viewing platforms quickly became one of my favourite parts of the experience, though using one for the first time came with its own quiet nerves.
Finding Confidence at My First Accessible Platform
The start line was my first attempt at using an accessible viewing platform, and I’ll be honest — I felt hesitant. There’s always that small knot of doubt: will they let me in? Am I slowing things down? Do I belong here?
The staff member at the bottom of the ramp changed everything. She stepped aside with a warm smile, welcomed me without hesitation, and offered to walk me up the ramp if I needed guidance. Her kindness dissolved my nerves instantly.
When I reached the next platform further up the hill, I walked in with full confidence. It’s remarkable how one person’s kindness can unlock a sense of belonging you didn’t realise you were holding back.
The Hillclimb: A Sensory Experience
Visually, the Hillclimb isn’t the easiest to follow from trackside — but the sensory experience is extraordinary. The sound shakes through your chest, and sometimes you feel the air shift as the cars pass.
Up to the Rally Stage
The walk to the rally stage winds through the forest: beautiful, but challenging. The dappled light can make navigation tricky, and the ground is uneven. The shuttle is a great alternative, taking you straight to the accessible platform at the top.
The Paddocks: Tactile Joy (and Crowd Management)
The paddocks are where Goodwood becomes truly unique. Most cars aren’t roped off, which means you can get astonishingly close. It is crowded, but I’ve found a rhythm that works: moving car by car, slowly and intentionally.
Unexpected Highlights
Some moments stay with you: tracing the grains of wood veneer with a Bentley craftsman, sitting inside dream cars, and discovering quieter corners amid the noise.
A Small Act of Kindness Among the VIP Stands
Later in the day, I wandered through one of the VIP stand areas. A staff member noticed my interest and invited me in without hesitation.
Inside were two cars from my dream garage: the Lancia Integrale and the Ferrari F40. Standing between them felt like being a kid again — thrilled and entirely in the moment.
How I Prepared — Practical Tips
- Plan your route early, especially if arriving by train.
- Build extra time into your day.
- Use the shuttle when needed.
- Visit the paddocks early.
- Pace yourself — move car by car.
- Bring essentials: water, charger, shade.
- Ask staff for help.
- Book mobility support early.
- Prepare for mud.
- End your day somewhere quieter.
Accessibility Checklist
- Blue-badge parking available (grass field; check weather).
- Courtesy shuttle service available.
- Accessible viewing platforms on site.
- Mobility scooters via Events Mobility.
- Essential Companion tickets available.
- Accessible toilets & Changing Places (see official guide).
- Mixed terrain: grass, pathways, gradients.
- Official accessibility page
Wet-weather and Terrain Notes
Goodwood sits on mixed terrain — grass, temporary paths, forest routes. In wet weather these can become muddy or uneven. An electric wheelchair or scooter can make the day easier, and staff can radio a shuttle if needed.
Score the experience, not just the access.
Transport, parking, signage, crowds, orientation.
Queues, ticket checks, security, first noise and lighting.
Lighting, sound, predictability, space to take a break.
Pathways, surfaces, ramps, signage, resting areas.
Sightlines, distance from action, atmosphere, audio clarity.
Clarity, respect, knowledge of access needs, consistency.
Pride, learning, joy inside difficulty. Would you go again?
Small wins, kindnesses, overall meaningfulness.
Final Reflection: Accessible Challenge in Action
Goodwood is loud, busy, chaotic and utterly world class. The day will stretch you a little — but it will reward you too. Events like this remind me that challenge isn’t something to fear; it’s part of how we discover what we’re capable of.
Reader Challenge and Invitation
Goodwood is big, busy and brilliantly overwhelming — and that’s exactly why it’s worth giving yourself the chance to experience it. If there’s one challenge you feel able to embrace, whether it’s trusting a staff member to guide you onto a platform or simply taking the day at your own pace, it might just shift something for you.
If you do decide to go, I’d genuinely love to hear how you found it — what challenged you, what surprised you, and what stayed with you.
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