Goodwood Motor Circuit

The sight of Goodwood's banking hits you first - that distinctive sloped curve rising up against the Sussex sky, unmistakable even from the road. This is where racing happens at proper speed, the circuit carved into the Downs near Chichester with a history that runs back to 1948. If you're the kind of person who gets excited about exhaust notes and the smell of hot tarmac, you'll want to come during a race weekend. The Festival of Speed in summer and the Revival in autumn are the big draws - thousands descend here to watch everything from Formula 1 legends to vintage motorcycles tearing round the track.

The circuit itself runs events throughout the year, so there's usually something on if you time it right. Non-race days offer track days and driving experiences if you fancy getting behind the wheel yourself, though these cost proper money. Even just standing near the paddock watching cars being prepped can be worth an afternoon if you're into engines and engineering.

This works brilliantly as a base for a wider Sussex exploring trip. Chichester's only a few miles away - proper cathedral town with decent pubs and restaurants - and you've got Chichester Lakeside Holiday Park right nearby if you want to stay put. The Downs themselves are gorgeous for walking once you've had your fill of racing. It's not for everyone, mind. Take the kids expecting thrills and they'll be bored stiff between events. But if you're a genuine petrolhead or planning to catch a race weekend, it's absolutely worth the journey.