Long Man of Wilmington to coastal cliffs of Beachy Head, Eastbourne, 22km

This stunning walk starts inland from South Downs National Park to the dramatic chalk sea cliffs of the coast.

The Long Man of Wilmington is a 235ft high chalk figure of a man holding two sticks. This mysterious giant guardian of the South Downs has baffled archaeologists and historians for hundreds of years – no one really knows who or why he was carved out of the earth. He continues to remain shrouded in myths and folklore and is one of Sussex's greatest mysteries.

The Long Man is Europe’s largest portrayal of the human form and a Scheduled Ancient Monument. It used to be visible only under certain light conditions in the past, until its outline was marked with concrete blocks to make it clearly visible from a distance. During the Second World War, it was painted green to avoid being used as a landmark by enemy aircraft.

Finally we reach Beachy Head, the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain at 162m from where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the awesome coastline…. we descend from here to the seafront at Eastbourne admiring the picturesque scenery along the way.

Cost: £4 organiser fee payable on RSVP

Start time: 9:30am

Start location: Berwick (Sussex) station BN26 6TB. My mobile: 07951673142

End location: The seafront at Eastbourne

Length: 22km

Ascent: 468m

Time: approx 8-9hrs. It’s not possible to guarantee what time we'll finish as it depends on the weather, pace of the group and our breaks along the way. Please be prepared to dedicate the entire day as the return time cannot be guaranteed.

Pace/Difficulty: reasonable and moderate pace; we will not zoom along in a mad rush. There will be breaks. The aim is to enjoy nature and have a fun, friendly day. This is a long hike across hills with a moderate level of ascent and it may not be suitable for absolute beginners.

Transport (train): The 7:54am train from London Victoria reaches Berwick (Sussex) station at 9:25am (with one change at Lewes). The journey takes 1hr 31min. An Advance Single cost £8 as of 22 February 2026.

There are regular trains for the return journey from Eastbourne to London Victoria. The journey takes 1hr 33min. An Advance Single cost £8 as of 22 February 2026.

Check the trains before travel. Please do your own research.
You can reduce the train cost by one third with a Network Railcard, where applicable.
You could also coordinate with other participants and buy a group saver ticket.

What to bring:
Check the weather and bring appropriate gear. A comfortable backpack, waterproof jacket, sufficient food, snacks, and water along with suitable socks and footwear (waterproof hiking boots) are some essentials. Walkways and trails can be steep, muddy, and slippery and boots with ankle support will be useful, as well as hiking poles. Gaitors are handy when its muddy and wet. Carrying waterproof socks in your backpack is a good idea in case your boots get wet from the inside. Don't wear inappropriate clothing such as jeans and sneakers. Remember to carry any medication you may require. If it’s sunny, don’t forget a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen!

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER / TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
By participating, you confirm you have read, understood and accepted the below, including the full Terms and Conditions
I am NOT a qualified hike leader or first aider.
Hiking, walking, and hill walking carry the risk of personal injury and death. Participants must be aware of, and accept, the risks. Participants are responsible for their own safety and actions and agree not to hold me responsible or liable for any injury (or death), damage or losses incurred either directly or indirectly from their participation in group events. This group is for people 18 years old and over.