Whether you like cars or not theres something very notable about the Goodwood Festival of Speed. It has the reminiscent values of the British “Jolly Good Time” about it and is a celebration of what can be accomplished when fine craftsmanship meets engineering.
Over the course of a few days there is a huge gathering of people to a beautiful estate in the south of England. This wonderful setting is only a stones throw from coast with the likes of Brighton, Portsmouth and Southampton near by. The picturesque grounds and house become filled with amazing marvels of technological wonders. From the vintage to the most modern. Vehicles of all shapes, sizes and years compete for the ultimate accolade… The Hill Time.
As the name suggests this is a festival celebrating the essence of speed and racing; with cars from all eras coming together in one place. This family fun event is not only every “petrol heads” must, but is a defining event of the esteemed British Social calendar. People from all walks of life, and from all around the world descend here every July.
That being said, this was my very first time attending.
I had the amazing honour of being invited to this magnificent soirée by Montblanc (the official time keeper and partner to the festival), to be one of their guests on Sunday the 15th of July.
Although I had been made aware of the possibility to attend the event, it wasn’t until a couriered delivery, that the reality of where I was going hit home.
5am the morning of Goodwood, getting up at this time wasn’t out of the ordinary for me, my pack of five hurricanes are usually up at this time, if not before, waiting for their breakfast. The difference about this morning was that the hurricanes were at home, no doubt tormenting their sitter, whilst I was getting ready for an hour long drive to the Goodwood Estate.
Although my hotel room was nothing special it did come will all the amenities you’d expect, so after getting a shower I got dressed and sorted ready for checking out.
There wasn’t a strict dress code for the day, although I guess you could say it was expected that you attend smart casual; so my usual low key shorts and T-shirt wouldn’t have been very appropriate. On this note I wore a simple white Oxford Shirt and Grey Trousers.
After gathering myself and packing up, it was time to hit the road. Goodwood was about an hours car journey away and with any event like this you know theres going to some build up of traffic as the event begins to open.
I find its always a little better to arrive a tiny but early, at least this way you wont be sat in traffic even if your sat at the gates to the event.
I had been quite fortunate in the fact that parking and entrance had been arranged for me (all included in my wonderful invite)
I arrived at Goodwood about 06:30 the journey was pleasantly uneventful and was quite a scenic route. The directions for the event were very clearly marked several miles form the actual estate and finding my specific entrance and parking zone was as simple as following a few yellow signs.
I was surprised to see that the stewards were already and wait for guest and attendees, giving them clear and coordinated instructions on where to actually park.
For once you could say the perks of being in a wheelchair was that I was able to be parked quite close to the shuttle bay to ferry me across to the gates of the event.
Obviously the grand scale of this event and festival are made clear when you have to take a few minute shuttle journey to the main gate.
My personal shuttle from the car park to the gate was a beautiful brand new (all be it a little dusty) Landrover Discovery Sport. The actual ride form the car park to the gate was very pleasant, the driver was especially welcoming and for that time in the morning was very perky and talkative.
When we arrived at the gate the event wasn’t quite open, there was a little wait before anyone (other than staff) could proceed through the gate. During this time, the shuttle driver was even more helpful in acquiring my extra “swing” pass. Something I needed for me to be able to access certain areas due to being in the chair. It would also allow me access to selected area accessible with my chair that wouldn’t normally be accessible (walk though and passages).
Waiting around at the gate everyone was is good spirits and very welcoming, I had the pleasure of talking to a relative local who was part of the Land Speed Team. A group of people who were at the festival to demonstrate an new Land Speed vehicle (hoping from what I recall to reach a speed of around 1000 MPH in a desert in Africa).
I have to admit I would have normally been a little more tentative in my acknowledgment (and listening), however there was already quite the rumble around (as cars, and Staff were entering the event).
All of a sudden there was a rush to the gate, being sat to one side (a little a head of the main queue) it was fairly easy for me to have my tag/pass scanned and head on in.
I have to admit I was quite the fool and didn’t realise about the gravel track around the main entrance. Thinking about it now it would have been a good idea to take my “GoFreeWheel”
After the initial gravel there was the relief of metal causeway’s zigzagging around the whole event. This made wheeling around a little easier. Getting around wasn’t especially hard because of the metal causeways, however in my complete ignorance of the the event and its main attraction (The Hill Climb) I really wasn’t prepared for actually how hilly it was.
Normally this wouldn’t be a major issue or impediment, however by now it was 7am and the Sun was already beating down upon me at what I can only describe as desert heat. It was dry and there wasn’t a cloud on the sky to be seen, this now comes back to the Shorts and Tee… Geesh it was already becoming warm, even at this time in the morning, who knows how warm it would feel like at the suns pinocle.
As I digress about the heat and how warm I was becoming. It was a smart move to have a quick look around before making any concrete plans. I had an itinerary from around 12 o’clock onwards, however this time in the morning was going to about exploring the venue and event.
It was about now I began to realise my other stupidity; I had forgotten to bring a hat. My Panama was sat no doubt in plain sight at home with the hurricanes, and as the sun was already beating down, I knew it wouldn’t be long before my head turn a nice shiny red colour. Luckily there were around and about many different stalls, selling wears. Although not incredibly stylish (and only a few pounds) I did mange to purchase a hat that would protect my head from the sun.
After wandering round for half an hour or so, more and more people began to arrive and the whole place started to fill with an exciting buzz. Before getting too distracted it was time to grab a breakfast on the go. There were many venders that sold a wide and varied selection of foods, many selling multiple menus throughout the day (obviously starting with breakfast). However you can forget morning rituals here, after all this was be all and end all a race day event, there was no Starbucks on every corner, although there were many that sold coffee (for those who wanted it); but this was literally food to go. There were a few benches to sit and quickly devour your breakfast wrap or whatnot, and I was lucky enough to find a quiet spot to enjoy a simple cup of tea. It was however quite the surprise to myself to see that before all other beverages were being distributed (tea, Coffee, soft drinks) the taps were already a flow with beer.
I found it quite amusing that whilst I was sat next to a table enjoying breakfast tea, on the table opposite was a group of young men enjoying their (first of many I’m sure) beer / larger of the day. You might ask what the surprise was, well it was only 8am in the morning at this point.
(Predictable as always technology fails me, and this was the only post I managed on instagram the whole day / event)
Taken a 8:30am, I found the front of Goodwood House and the Gateway structure of the Festival. Although these pictures can not do it justice, I can say that this beautiful star was gigantic, I am a little unsure if these were actual cars or replicas, however they were full size.
This monument to weekend was both stunning but another testament to engineering. A theme that carries on through the vibe of Goodwood Festival of Speed, most assume that the festival just celebrates how fast you can go or what time you can reach, but theres also a huge celebration of the engineering behind those vehicles, and its not just about the new (although the Future Lab was inspiring) it was about those that had come before, and laid down the foundation of what we know today.
It was brilliant to see all the categories of cars together in this marvellous celebration; and best of all the day had only just begun.
As the morning went on and several batches of vehicles had made their way around the track, I watched in awe as the event came to life.
As the viewing platforms filled, I thought it was time for another little adventure before heading to the Hill Pavilion to meet up with the amazing people and company that had be so gracious to invite me.
Heading towards the Stable Yard where I knew there was a little pop up boutique for my wonderful host “Montblanc”, I came across the vintage car selection. Although everyone gets enthusiastic about the actual relays, my fascination for anything really automotive that would fall under the category of classic or vintage. Now I’m far from a “Petrol Head”
(in fact I’m not even allowed to drive) but there is something quite remarkable about these prestigious engineering marvels. I guess my relationship to these kinds of vehicles stems from the classic movies I’ve watched so many times. But to see them in the flesh was completely inspired. It is truly amazing how far our knowledge and technology has come (although I still have my anguish with technology).
After moseying around the vintage cars and having a look (although not really being able to get close to) the BMW stand in the Stable Yard I made it to the Montblanc Boutique adjoining BMW.
Now this is where I come in to my element, I can honestly say without any doubt that I am one hundred percent obsessed with all things Montblanc. (I’m also pretty sure I drive the Montblanc UK team to distraction with this obsession). Although again (I apologise profusely) no pictures due to the technical hiccup of my camera, the Montblanc Pop up was truly incredible for me, not only did I get to see the BMW collection (which I should point out is exclusively only available at selected BMW Showrooms), but I also got my hands on the new Limited Edition Goodwood Edition TimeWalker Time Pieces
(Images Taken from www.montblanc.com UK webpage)
These two beautifully stunning time pieces, are exquisite. The craftsmanship and design is just impeccable, they’re brilliantly balanced to sit comfortably on your wrist, day or night for all occasions. Their unique personality shines through with a heritage steeped in precise time keeping and racing history. (although these images are high resolution, they do not do justice to actually seeing them in person). I am honestly no connoisseur of watches and my horology is somewhat lacking, I have come to realise and appreciate Montblanc and the amazing time pieces they create. The UK team have opened my eyes to a world that was completely unfamiliar to me. Showing me another expressive outlet not only in creativity but also style and sophistication. The detail and work that goes in to these incredible time pieces is completely unfathomable. I was (and am) honoured to have been able to see, hold and enjoy these beautiful Limited Edition Time Pieces. Also note that @thisistimothy and @tomhardy wore these time pieces with much more grace, elegance and suave than I could ever describe (images available on instagram).
I’m digressing slightly about Goodwood talking (writing) about magnificent new time pieces, however theres a real connection to both them and the Festival of Speed, as not only was the launch held at the festival but also (for those who really didn’t know) Montblanc is the official Time Keeper and Partner of Goodwood Festival of Speed.
By now I had given up all hope of continuing to use my camera, it clearly wasn’t liking me very much and had given up the go and not taking any more pictures, not to mention losing all the one I had taken.
It was a little frustrating knowing I had (have) taken a lot of pictures throughout the event only to be let down by technology and unable to show what an amazing and wondrous time it was, and all the amazing spectacles I saw and witnessed.
Leaving the Montblanc Pop-up Boutique the outside temperature was soaring, and I’m sure it was in the high 20’s and could have even possibly been hitting the 30’s. What ever the temperature was it certainly was extremely hot. There was no real reprieve from the heat of the midday sun, and as mentioned my attire was not one I was accustom to. Luckily the morning was drawing to a close and it was time to head over to the Hill pavilion, where the Montblanc Team and hosts had set up a heavenly air conditioned event space.
Before I could get the Hill Pavilion and passing through a sea of people, it was announced over the immense speaker system that the whole event was to be given the amazing opportunity to see the RAF Red Arrows in action. Whenever theres British gathering or social event one of the most anticipated appearances is that of the RAF Red Arrows. Their flawless displays brings feelings of joy and inspiration, not to mention a subject of pride, not just amongst those who witness their arial acrobats but to a whole nation. This year was exceptionally special to see the RAF Red Arrows in action as it is the 100th Anniversary year of the founding of the Royal Air Force.
Their display did not disappoint as the flew through the air trailing there plumes of red, white and blue.
Arriving at the event space I was greeted by some familiar faces, as always their welcome was exceptional and warm (no pun intended). They honestly not only made me feel like a VIP but also part of the family.
After meeting and greeting a lot of familiar names and I’m sure chewing the ears off many who had more important things to be doing, I scoured a place (hopefully out of the way) to which I could sit, enjoy the air conditioning and a glass of ice cold water; there was the option of Champaign, however not being a one for the fizz, I enjoying the refreshing relief of the chilled still water. I’m not really one for social gatherings in fact I try my best to usually avoid them, I always feel a little out of place and uncomfortable, not to mention I don’t like the fact I feel like I’m being a bit of a burden (especially as special arrangements usually have to be made because of the chair). This was however the second engagement I’ve attend curtesy of Montblanc UK (the first being a launch event in London for one of their amazing Writing Instruments) and I have to say I have never been made to feel so welcome and apart of something special. These amazing people took time to engage with me and spend their immensely busy time with me. I felt on top of the world and despite there being far more important people to the brand at the event, they made me feel like I was the most important person to them. There were a few missed opportunities on my part to meet some of the more international members of Montblanc, but I hope this can be rectified in the future, possibly at other Montblanc events.
As we took our places for a beautiful and delicate lunch I was honoured to have a couple of the Montblanc team sat with me at our table. There were also some very interesting and notable other guests sat around our dining table too.
The lunch was a marvellously laid out buffet, with beautiful fresh foods ( and some delicious vegetarian delights too), the service staff attended to all our needs filling glasses and of course bringing around anything you needed. I have to be a little cheeky here and say despite the lovely lunch, my sweet tooth got the better of me, and I couldn’t wait too see the sweet treats being brought out ready for the devouring.
The fresh hand buffet, gave way to a heavenly (very deliciously sickly) chocolate tart, and a beautifully light and delicate (I presume) Eton Mess. Of course I couldn’t resist trying both, and as I started the pleasurable task of tasting these deserts, that was when the serving staff brought forward the only thing that could accompany such tasty deserts… Ice Cream.
Yes I completely indulged in it all, topping my delectable chocolate tart with a dollop of ice cream and then filling the Mess Glass with another dollop of the cold goodness.
I could honestly say at this point I could have gone to heaven quite happy in myself. After the relentless heat barring down on the festival, going in to an air conditioned room filled with the most wondrous and friendly people, to eating gorgeous food, all of course whilst talking, laughing and watching the rally’s, what more could could you really want.
During all this it wasn’t hard to miss the beautifully placed glass cabinets filled and exhibiting the most desirable time pieces from the across the Montblanc collection, again it was a true privilege to be able to see and hold these magnificent items.
After talking away lunch and watching some more of the festival there was short kind of recess, the room emptied with only a few of us remaining, watching the screens and cheering on the drivers, it was a brilliant time for reflection, and of course some amazing and wonderful (intellectual) conversation. It was a delight to spend some time with interesting and exceptional people, I felt honoured and lucky they would spend their precious and valuable time with me. About an hour passed before the room began to fill again. This time it was for the British tradition of Afternoon Tea. Obviously Goodwood being a quintessentially British social event, this was of course a must; and true to form there was every classic of the afternoon tea presented on a tiered platter. Again the selection of cakes and sweet treats was delicious, the sandwiches were tasty too, but what can I say I soft spot cakes and a very big sweet tooth.
Time unfortunately was passing very quickly and before realising day had gone. It was time to say my farewells as it was going to be a tremendous journey back to Sheffield from Goodwood (about 3.5 to 4 hours depending). I hope this was every bit a success for Montblanc as I felt it was for me, I had the most joyous time. It was a true privilege to have been able to spend so much time in such amazing company.
Being a little cheeky here but I hope I have the honour and privilege of attending this event again with Montblanc.
I would like to to take this time to thank every one involved, and for the gracious invite. Thank you all for your time, patience and understanding. It was an honour to be invited and attend such an amazing event amongst such magnificent people. Thank you to all those whole took time to talk and engage with me, I know your time is very precious and your all very busy. I know I’m not and wasn’t the most important and influential person in attendance, but thank you for making me feel like I was. Thank you for letting me be involved and for showcasing your exquisite Time Pieces. What a wonderfully marvellous day it was.
Festival of Speed Goodwood Whether you like cars or not theres something very notable about the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
