The Qatar Goodwood Festival, otherwise known as Glorious Goodwood, is one of the biggest flat racing events in the UK and is often hailed as the ‘Home of Champions’. Held at the end of July in the height of the British summer, the 5-day festival is not only a standout sporting highlight but also a social one. Offering a great occasion that combines action with style, it’s no surprise to hear that celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Zara Phillips, Pixie Lott and many others have all been spotted in attendance at this glamorous event in the past. Situated in the picturesque countryside of West Sussex, Goodwood is often hailed as the most beautiful racecourse in the United Kingdom, with the grandstand looking out onto not only the great racecourse but also the rolling hills of the South Downs.
The Goodwood Festival is set over five days with each day including a great reason to head along. Wednesday plays host to the £1 million Qatar Sussex Stakes, Thursday boasts one of racing's most glamorous Ladies Day, Friday's racing is simply unrivalled with four world-class group races and to wrap up the week, the infamous Steward's Cup takes place on Saturday.
Macdonald Botley Park Hotel
The Macdonald Botley Park Hotel & Spa is certainly one of the finest 4-star hotels in Southampton. Situated in the heart of picturesque Hampshire, this experience offers the best of locations being less than an hour away from Goodwood Racecourse and only 15 minutes from Southampton’s city centre. Getting here is easy for those coming from the West due to Southampton’s fantastic links.
After what will have been a spectacular, glamorous day out, the Botley Park Hotel & Spa will allow you to unwind in style. Whether a dip in the leisure club’s 18-metre pool is what you are after, or you are looking to indulge in a delicious meal at the Winchester Restaurant, this hotel has you covered. Comfy yet spacious rooms will welcome you after your day at the races; you will most certainly leave feeling refreshed. As the hotel name suggests, spa treatments are available for those seeking extra pampering.
This hotel is perfect for those looking for evening entertainment. Enjoy the wide range of restaurants and late-night bars that Southampton’s city centre has to offer.
Example Experience Includes:
Two nights accommodation at the Macdonald Botley Park Hotel
Breakfast each morning
Return transfers from the hotel to Goodwood Racecourse
Ticket to the Qatar Goodwood Festival on a day of your choice
From £189pp
Book HERE
Old Thorns Hotel
The Old Thorns Hotel is justifiably one of our most popular destinations during Qatar Goodwood Festival Week. This modern, exclusive, 4* property offers the highest levels of comfort along with excellent facilities. Located north of Goodwood and only 40 minutes away from the racecourse, this hotel is perfect for those travelling from London and beyond.
Boasting spacious hotel rooms, an exceptional health club and an 18-hole championship golf course, your trip to Goodwood Festival is destined to be made extra special with a stay at the Old Thorns Hotel. If a ‘pool and prosecco’ break sounds like something you’d enjoy, look no further! Enjoy a crisp, refreshing glass of bubbly by the pool as you celebrate after a fantastic day at Goodwood. This experience is perfect for those looking for a relaxing retreat and to make the most of their trip to Hampshire. Make your trip that much more memorable by enjoying a round of golf and if that doesn’t tickle your fancy, find your inner peace with a tranquil spa treatment.
Explore the local scenery and greenery; embark on a woodland walk if you dare... The great outdoors awaits. The Old Thorns experience truly makes for the ultimate staycation!
Example Experience Includes:
Two nights accommodation at the Old Thorns Hotel
Breakfast each morning
Return transfers from the hotel to Goodwood Racecourse
Ticket to the Qatar Goodwood Festival on a day of your choice
From £199pp
Book HERE
Spread Eagle Hotel & Spa
Located in Midhurst, a pretty Sussex market town in the heart of the South Downs National Park, The Spread Eagle is a charming English historic inn that provides contemporary, modern comforts but has all the while retained its heritage. This is an extremely sought after venue for Qatar Goodwood Festival goers due to its proximity to the course; find yourself back at your Hampshire retreat only 20 minutes after leaving. With easy access to the A26 and A272, this hotel is perfect for racing enthusiasts coming from the South East.
Charming rooms, an indoor heated swimming pool and award-winning spa treatments are just some of the facilities on offer at the Spread Eagle Hotel & Spa. Immerse yourself in the jacuzzi spa pool and escape the crowd in this rural idyll in the heart of the South Downs National Park. If none of this tickles your fancy, celebrate your winnings with a crisp Gin and Tonic from the Gin Bar. Here you will find an extensive selection of cocktails that you can enjoy on a sun-drenched terrace. This hotel truly has something for everyone and will only enhance your Glorious Goodwood experience.
Explore South Downs National Park and all that Midhurst has to offer.
Example Experience Includes:
One night accommodation at the Spread Eagle Hotel & Spa
Breakfast the following morning
Return transfers from the hotel to Goodwood Racecourse
Ticket to Qatar Goodwood Festival on a day of your choice
From £259pp
Book HERE
Hilton Avisford Park
Originally a Georgian manor house, the Hilton Avisford Park now plays host to avid Goodwood racegoers every Summer. Set on 89 picturesque acres and home to a fantastic 18-hole golf course, it is easy to see why so many are fond of this hotel. Located in Arundel, a small West Sussex town, you will find yourself taking in the surrounding beauty and truly unwinding on what will be a fantastic break.
After what will have been a quintessentially British day out at the races, why not keep it going by reserving a table at Cedar Restaurant. Treat your tastebuds as you dine in what was formerly a prep school and enjoy dinner in the split-level restaurant as you overlook the putting green. The menu plays host to British classics with a modern European twist; this compliments your day racing perfectly. If it is a simple yet delightful sandwich you desire, make your way to The Lounge Terrace and Bar. The Hilton's comfortable and spacious rooms make for a good nights sleep.
Located between Worthing and Goodwood Racecourse, this hotel is practical for those travelling from the South East. It is also a fantastic option for those wishing to take a trip to the beach.
Example Experience Includes:
One night accommodation at the Spread Eagle Hotel & Spa
Breakfast the following morning
Return transfers from the hotel to Goodwood Racecourse
Ticket to Qatar Goodwood Festival on a day of your choice
Price TBC
Book HERE