Getting to Goodwood

How to reach the estate by road, rail and air

The Goodwood estate is located approximately three miles north-east of Chichester in West Sussex, and it is accessible by road, rail and, uniquely, by air through the estate's own aerodrome. The most common approach is by car, but the availability of rail connections and the aerodrome's capacity for private aircraft provide alternatives that many visitors use.

By road, Goodwood is reached from the A27 Chichester bypass. From the east, take the A27 from Arundel or Brighton and exit at the A285 junction signed for Petworth. From the west, take the A27 from Havant or Portsmouth and exit at the same junction. The A285 runs north through the village of Halnaker and past the Goodwood Aerodrome to the estate's main entrance. From London and the north, the A3 to Petersfield and then the A272 and A286 via Midhurst provides an attractive alternative route that avoids the A27.

Satellite navigation systems sometimes direct visitors along narrow lanes that are not suitable for heavy traffic, particularly during events. Following the road signs posted by the estate's event management team during major events is advisable, and these signs are colour-coded to direct traffic to specific car parks and entrance points.

By rail, Chichester station is the nearest mainline station, approximately three miles from the estate. Trains run from London Victoria via Gatwick Airport, from Brighton, and from Southampton and Portsmouth along the south coast line. The journey from London Victoria takes approximately ninety minutes, and trains run regularly throughout the day. During major events, shuttle bus services operate between Chichester station and the estate, providing a practical and efficient connection. Taxis are also available from the station rank.

By air, the Goodwood Aerodrome accepts visiting aircraft by prior arrangement. The aerodrome has two grass runways and can accommodate light aircraft, helicopters and some larger propeller-driven aircraft. Arriving by air is a distinctive way to reach Goodwood and appeals to pilots who want to combine flying with a day at the races, the motor circuit or the estate's other attractions. Landing fees and parking arrangements should be confirmed with the aerodrome in advance.

Cycling to Goodwood is feasible for visitors staying in the Chichester area. The roads from Chichester to the estate pass through attractive downland scenery, and the ride of approximately three miles is manageable for most cyclists. Cycle parking is available at event venues, and the estate encourages cycling as a sustainable transport option.

The estate provides comprehensive travel information on its website, including specific directions for each event venue, details of car parking arrangements and links to public transport timetables. During major events, traffic management plans are published in advance, and the estate's team works with the local highways authority and police to manage the flow of vehicles on the approach roads.

For international visitors, the nearest airports are London Gatwick, approximately fifty miles to the north-east, and Southampton, approximately thirty miles to the west. Both airports have car hire facilities and good connections to the road and rail networks. The train from Gatwick to Chichester takes approximately ninety minutes with one change. Heathrow is further away but accessible via the M25 and A3. International visitors attending major Goodwood events should allow additional time for airport connections and the traffic congestion that affects the local area during event periods.