The Best Places to Stay Near Goodwood Racecourse

12,000 acres of park and woodland surround this hotel, which is also part of the Goodwood Estate. Inside, you’ll find cosy, individually decorated rooms as well as a spa and gym. Food is a major highlight here. Tuck into an organic, home-reared steak at the field-to-fork Farmer, Butcher, Chef restaurant. Dogs are welcome – they can even join you whilst you eat. After you’ve spent a day at the races, take advantage of the other on-site activities including golf, yoga and even flying lessons.

This boutique hotel in a Grade II-listed Georgian building retains its beautiful original features, like its spiral staircase, sash windows and period fireplaces, but it’s mostly taken on a modern edge. Many of the bright, airy rooms overlook the cathedral spires – upgrade to the Junior Suite for a freestanding tub and complimentary gin. Downstairs, there’s a steam room and hydrotherapy pool to soak tired muscles, whilst the on-site restaurant is a destination spot, fronted by chef Alex Aitken. The racecourse is a 10-minute drive away.

The Royal Oak in East Lavant is a five-minute drive from Goodwood. The dining room is usually packed on Sundays, thanks to its legendary roast. The good news is you can sleep it off upstairs in one of the traditional bedrooms. There are also two self-contained cottages on site, ideal for families and large groups – including dogs. Stomp through the rolling South Downs hills before kicking back with a glass of red by the crackling fire.

This private annexe apartment sleeps two guests inside a quaint converted barn, also situated in the quiet village of East Lavant. Inside, expect whitewashed walls and wooden floors, giving a thoroughly modern feel to this rural pad. A breakfast parcel is dropped off outside each morning, ready for you to assemble. The space is fairly snug, but you won’t be spending much time inside anyway – it’s a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside and, of course, the racecourse.

Burrowed a little deeper in the South Downs National Park, the Selsey Arms is a six-minute drive away from the Goodwood Racecourse and four minutes from Goodwood Motor Circuit. It’s a traditional country pub with rooms, seasonal and locally sourced food plus real ales. The converted barn at the back of the pub has six ensuite bedrooms, with breakfast included in your stay. Enjoy on the outdoor decking during the warmer months.

Seven airy bedrooms boast countryside views at the Old Store Guest House, a six-minute drive from the racecourse. The house was once a bakery – you can still spot the original bread oven from 1795 within the building. The former shop has been transformed into a cosy breakfast area, plus there’s also a sitting room and garden that add a homely feel. Solo travellers will appreciate the single rooms on offer, whilst families should opt for the King Size, sleeping four.

A little further afield, Landseer House is close to the coast in Sidlesham, near West Wittering Beach, a beautiful 20-minute drive away from Goodwood through Chichester. B&B-style rooms offer garden and meadow views within the main house. Alternatively, you can book a Georgian-style, semi-detached cottage with its own private garden, located down a quiet country lane. Locally sourced sausages and bacon are served at breakfast in the light-filled garden room.