Glorious Goodwood: A Biography of England's Greatest Sporting Estate

The Goodwood story is extraordinary and rightly celebrated, and James Peill's book captures the character of each Duke and their impact on the estate. It is a sweeping history of England, and one family's part in it, from Charles II to present day, featuring cameo appearances from George Stubbs, Canaletto, Alexander, Emperor of Russia, Queen Victoria, Jackie Stewart, and Edward VII. Glorious Goodwood is a vivid and intimate portrait of a house and its inhabitants set against a dazzling panoramic backdrop of English history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 25 June 2020
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

Goodwood, England's most renowned sporting estate, has a rich history that dates back centuries. It began as a small hunting lodge and has since transformed into a iconic location for world-renowned events such as the Festival of Speed, Glorious Goodwood, and Goodwood Revival. The story of Goodwood is closely intertwined with the Dukes of Richmond, who were patrons of the arts, political influencers, royal confidantes, architectural innovators, horticultural enthusiasts, and stewards of the community.

Goodwood curator James Peill has written a captivating book titled "Glorious Goodwood," which delves into the history of the estate and the Dukes of Richmond. Peill's writing style is delightful, with a wonderfully light touch that makes the book an enjoyable read. He captures the character of each Duke, some radical and others staunchly traditional, and the wide-ranging impact they had on the Goodwood of today.

The broader context of the book is a sweeping history of England, and one family's part in it. Beginning with Charles II and his mistress Louise de Keroualle, the parents of the first Duke, Glorious Goodwood takes the reader on a journey through time, from the seventeenth century to present day. The book covers significant events such as the Jacobite Rising, the Battle of Waterloo, and the First and Second World Wars.

Cameo appearances from notable figures such as George Stubbs, Canaletto, Alexander, Emperor of Russia, Queen Victoria, Jackie Stewart, and Edward VII add depth and intrigue to the story. These individuals were associated with Goodwood in various ways, from hosting Privy Council meetings in the Tapestry Drawing Room during race week to being patrons of the arts and sports.

"Glorious Goodwood" is a vivid and intimate portrait of a house and its inhabitants set against a backdrop of historical events. Peill's writing style brings the estate and its inhabitants to life, making the reader feel as if they are part of the Goodwood story. The book is well-researched and filled with fascinating anecdotes and details that will interest anyone with an interest in history, sports, or the British royal family.

In conclusion, "Glorious Goodwood" is a must-read for anyone who wants to learn more about the history of this iconic sporting estate and the Dukes of Richmond. James Peill's writing style is delightful, and the book is filled with fascinating anecdotes and details that will interest readers of all ages. Whether you are a history buff, a sports enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys a good story, this book is sure to captivate your attention.

Weight: 286g
Dimension: 127 x 197 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472128256