Glorious Goodwood

Glorious Goodwood - A History

It was the third Duke of Richmond who commence horse racing at Goodwood. He did so out of obligation to the officers of the Sussex Militia, of which he was the Colonel, rather than any kind of love for the sport. For many years the officers had held their annual races in nearby Petworth Park, courtesy of the Earl of Egremont, but when that nobleman did not renew the invitation in 1801, the Duke of Richmond came to their rescue by laying out a course on that part of the Goodwood Estate known as The Harroway.

So pleased was the Duke with the popularity of that first two-day meeting that he organised a three-day meeting under Jockey Club Rules the following year. On the first day he won with a horse called Cedar, but on the third day Cedar was beaten by Trumpator, owned by the Prince of Wales, later King George IV. To accommodate the more distinguished guests the Duke had a small wooden stand erected. The first Duke of Richmond, was an illegitimate son of Charles II and Louise de Keroualle, Duchess of Portsmouth. His grandson, the founder of the Goodwood meeting, was a man of taste and considerable talent. He was one of the earliest patrons of George Stubbs, who painted views of the Goodwood Estate at the beginning of his career, and as Master General of the Ordinance, commissioned the first ordnance survey maps, still in use today.

Goodwood - The Course

Horseracing was first introduced to Goodwood in 1802 by the Third Duke of Richmond. Set on top of the Sussex Downs it is a truly remarkable setting and is one of the most picuresque racecourses in the country. The track runs right handed and is in a loop shape. It has several undulations and several tight bends.

Goodwood - The Facilities

The Richmond Enclosure: This is Goodwoods Members Enclosure and is open to all racegoers except during The Glorious Goodwood Meeting which ruins from 29th July to the 2nd August 2008. At this meeting the enclosure is reserved for Members, their guests and corporate clients. You will find both the March and Charlton Stands in the Richmond Enclosure where there is easy access to view the Winners Enclosure and also the Parade Ring. There is a great range of betting facilities, including Tote and rails bookmakers. There is also a good selection of bars and restaurants to choose from.

The Gordon Enclosure: This is the main enclosure at Goodwood and you will have access to the Sussex Stand and the Paddock, Winners Enclosure and Parade Ring. There are great betting facilities and restaurants and bars.

The Lennox Enclosure: This is a public enclosure and it offers great views of the home straight as the horses head for the winning post. A great enclosure for the family, with extensive betting facilities and a wide choice of food and drink areas.

Glorious Goodwood - Admission Prices 2009

The Richmond Enclosure:ANNUAL MEMBERS ONLY

The Gordon Enclosure:£33.00

The Lennox Enclosure:£14.00

Glorious Goodwood- How To Get There

Glorious Goodwood By Car:The course is approximately 4 miles to the north of Chichester and you can access Goodwood race course from 3 roads. they are the A27, A286 and the A285.

Glorious Goodwood By Train:The nearest train station to Goodwood Race Course is Chichester. On race days there are bus services available and there are also taxis available for the short journey to the track.

Glorious Goodwood Racecourse Address

Goodwood Racecourse
Goodwood House
Chichester
West Sussex
PO18 0BX

Tel:01243 774838
Fax:

Glorious Goodwood - Hotels and Accomodation

Here we will place full information and a website link to a recommended hotel near to Goodwood racecourse. If you would like to advertise your Goodwood Hotel on this website then please email us at tips@turftalkracingtips.co.uk.