There isn't a whole lot to say about the Goodwood Revival that hasn't been said before. However, what has been said needs to be constantly repeated until every motoring enthusiast on this planet knows just how important and impressive the Revival meeting is.

It may seem a little bit unpalatable from the outside, but with the vast, vast majority of visitors to the Revival dressed in period correct clothing, it does so much to enhance the atmosphere and overall feel of the event.

I know Jonathan has already written about this aspect of the Revival, but the simple walk from the car park to the main gate is really one of those special automotive moments that for me anyways, is definitely on par with arriving at the Nordschliefe for the first time.

Not only does the standard of machinery on display leave you in awe … 

… but the seemless journey to a time I've only ever dreamed of is remarkable. There are no words to describe the feeling if I'm honest. 

It's not just the period dress but the whole environment is transformed. 

I spent the Friday morning just aimlessly wandering around the area, trying to take everything in.  

Although this is my second Revival meeting in succession, the event has still not lost any of its charm. Last year I believe was the introduction of the era-correct Tesco store … 

… but this year, they've added even more stores to the Revival High street. 

As you can see, even early on a Friday morning Goodwood becomes absolutely chock full of visitors. 

Those of you who have read Jonathan's post will know that it's not all about the cars but also that there is a strong aviation and military theme to the event.

Ladie's and men's fashion is also at the fore of the event.

But it's really the automobiles which are often just casually parked about the place that make the event so special for the likes of you and me. 

The on-track action forms the centre point of the entire event. However, I left Jonathan to cover that aspect of the event whilst I continued an aimless walk around the circuit exterior …

… which turned up a gem or two. 

One of my own personal highlights was the Porsche workshop on the infield of the circuit. 

I wonder how Porsche's latest 991 will stand the test of time ? 

Porsche obviously worked quite close with Goodwood and pulled out all the stops to ensure that visitors were given a real treat … 

… as the mechanics performed some engine-out work … 

… along with working on the contents of the gearbox. 

Both of which were pulled from this. I just couldn't believe how close we, the public, could get to everything.  

Porsche were not alone in their retro-garage. They were joined by BMW, Mini, Jeep and Rolls Royce. 

Rolls Royce which of course attracted a lot of attention, especially with a sculptor recreating the famous Spirit of Ecstasy in front of the assembled crowd.

I'll continue our stroll behind the scenes in part two.

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Paddy McGrath

The Goodwood Revival 2011 on Speedhunters

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