Goodwood House, the family home of the Duke and Duchess of Richmond and Gordon, is a charming English country house with a warm and inviting atmosphere, along with plenty of glamour.
The State Apartments at Goodwood have been fully restored in a Regency style, and they house one of the most significant private collections of art in the UK.
Where is Goodwood House located?
Goodwood House is the beating heart of the 12,000 acre Goodwood Estate. It is located outside Chichester, just 30 miles from both Southampton and Brighton, and 60 miles from London.
What is the history of Goodwood House to the present day?
The first Duke of Richmond originally rented Goodwood as a base from which to participate in the Charlton Hunt, which was located nearby. He was the illegitimate son of Charles II by Louise de Kérouaille, his French mistress.
The duke eventually bought the house in 1697, and extended it. The third Duke of Richmond commissioned James Wyatt to develop the north wing, and following a devastating fire in the family's London home, Richmond House, Wyatt built two further wings to house the magnificent art collection that had been saved from the fire.
The third Duke died virtually penniless, so the extensions, to include a Ballroom, were only completed in 1836, by the fifth Duke.
Fast forward to the 1960s, and the arrival of the tenth Duke and Duchess of Richmond. At this time, the north wing was found to be suffering from dry rot, and it was consequently demolished, with the Tapestry Drawing Room preserved. Further works were completed during the 60s.
The current Duke moved into the house in 1994, and he has undertaken significant refurbishment works on the house, to restore many of the rooms to their full Georgian splendour.
What is there to see and do at Goodwood House?
Goodwood House is open from March to October, for both tours and afternoon tea. The house is available to tour, and there is an extensive collection of art to discover. Goodwood House welcomes tour groups and schools, and it can also host weddings, celebrations, and corporate events.
