Horseracing returns to Goodwood this May.
The racecourse has announced the start of its 2026 season with two fixtures: the Season Opener on May 1 and May 2, and the May Festival on May 22 and May 23.
The Season Opener features a Wingwalkers air display on both days, following last year’s Spitfire flypast commemorating the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
Racegoers can see the Wingwalkers swoop into action over the racecourse soon after gates open on both Friday and Saturday.
The Goodwood Farm Shop takes over the Veuve Clicquot Champagne and Seafood Bar, selling signature products to visitors.
Racegoers can also partake in an ultimate racing simulator experience, courtesy of Goodwood’s Motor Circuit.
The racing simulators, set up at the Racecourse for both days, will allow visitors a chance to test their skills on the challenging circuit.
Vintage Land Rovers also provide free trips to and from the starting stalls for races two, four and six.
The horseracing line-up features three listed contests – the Daisy Warwick Stakes, the Conqueror Stakes and the Chelmer Stakes – attracting notable fillies and mares to the flat season’s starting grid.
Goodwood House tour and afternoon tea: A day out fit for a king
Goodwood House tour and afternoon tea: A day out fit for a king
Rolls-Royce launches 2026 apprenticeship scheme at Goodwood
Rolls-Royce launches 2026 apprenticeship scheme at Goodwood
Horses and pastel evening skies feature in atmospheric images
Horses and pastel evening skies feature in atmospheric images
Apprentices from Chichester College’s restaurant, 64, will take over Double Trigger on Friday, May 1.
Notably, Goodwood and Chichester College maintain a close partnership throughout the year, with Estate chefs mentoring and providing hands-on experience to students.
Goodwood’s flagship restaurant, Farmer, Butcher, Chef, serves spring-inspired dishes on May 2.
The May Festival, taking place on Friday, May 22, and Saturday, May 23, launches the early summer for Goodwood, getting racegoers primed for ‘Glorious Goodwood.’
May Festival is a source of inspo for many, with retailers and milliners hand-picked for a boutique pop-up debuted in the March Stand.
Hector’s Clothing, Rebecca Gray, Lisa Tan and Camilla Ridley are among those showcased.
Back by popular demand, the popular Stone & Skillet returns to Double Trigger, with a menu utilising local ingredients.
May Festival also features a highly competitive racecard, including three Listed contests: The Height of Fashion Stakes, The EBF Cocked Hat Stakes and The Festival Stakes, with each race benefitting from increased prize money.