When we think about the biggest horse racing events of the year, Royal Ascot and Cheltenham are usually the two that come to mind. But there’s another world-famous five-day event that brings equally as much style and glamour: Goodwood.
Goodwood can be a little confusing for first-timers, with three completely separate events taking place at the same venue over the summer: the horse racing, the Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival. To make things simple, we’ve explained everything you need to know below, from the dress codes to the most stylish guests who turned heads at the horse racing in 2026.
What is Goodwood?
Every summer, Goodwood House in West Sussex hosts several world-famous sporting events, each with its own identity. While the annual Festival of Speed celebrates the very best of motorsport, drawing Formula 1 cars, supercars and racing legends to its iconic hill climb, and Goodwood Revival transports visitors back to the 1940s, ’50s and ’60s with historic motor racing, the Qatar Goodwood Festival – affectionately known as Glorious Goodwood – is dedicated to world-class horse racing. Held over five days at Goodwood Racecourse (which this year runs from Tuesday, 28 July to Saturday, 1 August), the event is just as celebrated for its style as it is for the action on the track, drawing in impeccably dressed celebrities, royals and stylish racegoers alike in elegant summer looks that have become synonymous with the British social season.
Is there a dress code for the horse racing?
As with Royal Ascot and Cheltenham, it all depends on which enclosure you’re in. The Richmond Enclosure is the most formal (much like Royal Ascot’s Royal Enclosure), where the website explains “linen suits, softly structured dresses, smart separates, tailored trousers with an artful top, and sleek jumpsuits are de rigueur.” Men are also required to wear a jacket, collared shirt and tie, whereas the Gordon and Lennox Enclosures have a more relaxed approach, encouraging smart, stylish dressing rather than strict rules.
Best dressed guests at Glorious Goodwood 2026:
© Getty ImagesLydia Millen
Lydia looked glorious in a strapless cream dress from Solace London, a boater from Jane Taylor, shoes from Emmy London and a Strathberry bag.
© PA Images via Getty ImagesSunshine Yellows
A racegoer opted for an incredible yellow tiered dress with contrasting black detailing. She paired it with a yellow headpiece, matching shoes and a raffia bag.
© PA Images via Getty Images70s Chic
A racegoer wore a stunning paisley-print auburn coloured dress by Zimmermann paired with the must-have accessory of the week: a fan.
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