The Long Man of Wilmington, Europe’s largest representation of the human form cut into the chalk of the South Downs, has baffled archaeologists and historians for hundreds of years.
Many people are convinced that he is prehistoric, whilst others believe that he is the work of an artistic monk from the nearby Priory created between the 11th and 15th centuries.
There has been much speculation as to his purpose. Fertility symbol? Ancient warrior? Early 18th century folly? Who knows? Visitors can view him from afar or walk across his form on the side of the Downs.
The Long Man of Wilmington is situated 6 miles north-west of Eastbourne (OS 199 TQ543034). It is signposted from the A27, 2 miles west of the junction with the A22 at Polegate and 10 miles east of Lewes and located south of the village of Wilmington.
Buses serve the A27, and British Rail stations served direct from Eastbourne, Lewes, Hastings and London are at Berwick (3 miles) and Polegate (2.5 miles). Please check local timetables for details.
| Open 1 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Day | Times | |
| Monday - Sunday | 00:01 | - 23:59* |
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