Long Man of Wilmington
A colossal, ancient geoglyph etched into a hillside, offering breathtaking views of the South Downs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, vibrant greenery
Long Man of Wilmington
Best Time
Clear skies, vibrant greenery
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A colossal, ancient geoglyph etched into a hillside, offering breathtaking views of the South Downs.
"The Long Man walk was a great hike with truly amazing views."
🥾 Wear sturdy shoes
The hike can be steep and muddy. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable walk. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Check the weather
Windy conditions can be intense on the hill. Sunny days offer the best views. :whitesuncloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Long Man Geoglyph
Windover Hill
A colossal figure etched into the hillside, its origins shrouded in mystery. A truly unique sight.
Panoramic South Downs Views
Summit of Windover Hill
Breathtaking vistas of the rolling South Downs National Park. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
The Long Man Pub
Base of Windover Hill
A historic pub offering refreshments and a cozy atmosphere after your hike. Dog-friendly too!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Footwear for the Hike
Weather-Wise Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear sturdy shoes
The hike can be steep and muddy. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable walk. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Check the weather
Windy conditions can be intense on the hill. Sunny days offer the best views. :whitesuncloud:
📸 Capture the views
Bring your camera for stunning panoramic shots of the South Downs. :camerawithflash:
🍺 Refuel at the pub
The Long Man Pub at the bottom offers a great spot for a post-hike drink and bite. :beer_mug:
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear sturdy shoes
The hike can be steep and muddy. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable walk. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Check the weather
Windy conditions can be intense on the hill. Sunny days offer the best views. :whitesuncloud:
📸 Capture the views
Bring your camera for stunning panoramic shots of the South Downs. :camerawithflash:
🍺 Refuel at the pub
The Long Man Pub at the bottom offers a great spot for a post-hike drink and bite. :beer_mug:
🐶 Dog-friendly walk
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the walk and at the local pub. :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Long Man of Wilmington for its stunning South Downs views and the invigorating hike up Windover Hill. The mysterious nature of the geoglyph and the charm of the local pub are also frequently highlighted. Some note that the figure itself, being a reconstruction, lacks the original finesse of other chalk figures, and parking can be limited.
"Great easy hill to hike around, parking is a little limited however. Views from the top are amazing and great on a sunny day. Cows horses and kestrel spotted."
Duncan Latimer
"The Long Man walk was a great hike with truly amazing views. It’s a beautiful route that gives you a real sense of the landscape. Just make sure to choose your day wisely—on a windy day, it can get pretty intense, and you don’t want to feel like you’re about to be blown away!"
H Alkabi
"Visited on a beautiful sunny day its a very nice place and surrounding area to visit. It was very quiet when we were there and we also visited the local church with its ancient tree and lovely interior.
The local pub then provided a nice friendly lunch."
damien o higgins
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Long Man of Wilmington is located on Windover Hill near the village of Wilmington in East Sussex, England. You can reach it by car, with parking available near the base of the hill. Public transport options are limited, but local bus services may connect to nearby villages. Many visitors arrive by car and then embark on the hike up the hill. 
Parking is available near the base of Windover Hill, but it can be limited, especially during peak times. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.
While direct public transport to the exact location is scarce, you can take a bus to nearby villages like Wilmington and then walk or arrange local transport. Check local bus schedules for routes serving the area.
From Wilmington village, you can follow footpaths leading up Windover Hill. The walk offers beautiful scenery and leads directly to the iconic geoglyph.
The path to the Long Man is a hillside hike and can be steep and uneven. It may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. Sturdy footwear is essential.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no admission fees to visit and view the Long Man of Wilmington. It is an open-air landmark situated on public land.
The Long Man of Wilmington is accessible at any time, as it is an outdoor landmark. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility.
There is no entrance fee. The Long Man is a free-to-access historical site.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and lack of visibility. Daylight hours are best for viewing and hiking.
As a Scheduled Ancient Monument, visitors are asked to respect the site. Stick to marked paths and do not disturb the geoglyph.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike to the Long Man from the base of the hill typically takes around 30-60 minutes, depending on your pace and fitness level. The total visit, including time at the top and descent, can be 1-2 hours.
The main activity is hiking up Windover Hill to view the Long Man geoglyph and enjoy the panoramic views of the South Downs. You can also visit the nearby church and the Long Man Pub.
Restroom facilities are generally not available directly at the Long Man site. You may find facilities in the nearby village of Wilmington or at The Long Man Pub.
Visitors have reported spotting cows, horses, and kestrels in the surrounding fields and hillsides. The area is rich in natural beauty.
Absolutely! The Long Man itself, the surrounding landscapes, and the panoramic views offer fantastic photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, The Long Man Pub is located at the bottom of the hill and offers food and drinks. The village of Wilmington also has local eateries.
Yes, The Long Man Pub is known to be dog-friendly, making it a great stop for visitors with canine companions.
The pub typically serves traditional pub fare, including meals and refreshments. It's a good place to relax after a hike.
Picnicking is possible in the surrounding countryside, but please be mindful of the environment and take all your litter with you.
Wilmington village offers a few local dining options, providing a more varied choice for meals.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon light (golden hour) provides the most dramatic and scenic shots of the Long Man and the surrounding South Downs.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the Long Man and the expansive landscape. A drone can offer unique aerial perspectives, but always check local regulations.
The best views are from the hillside itself. As you hike up, you'll find various vantage points. The summit offers the most comprehensive panorama.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations and permissions. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the National Trust if applicable, though some have captured drone footage.
Beyond the Long Man figure itself, the rolling hills, ancient trees in the village, and the vast sky offer compelling photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The panoramic views from the top are a great reward, and spotting local wildlife like cows and horses can add to the fun. Consider visiting on a day with good weather to maximize enjoyment. The Long Man Pub at the bottom is a good spot for a family meal or a treat after the hike. While the hike itself is the main attraction, the overall experience provides a good mix of activity and scenic beauty for a family outing.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
You can set your own pace and truly immerse yourself in the landscape. Don't forget to check the weather forecast, as conditions can change rapidly. Bringing a fully charged phone is always a good idea for safety and navigation. The Long Man Pub offers a friendly place to relax and perhaps chat with locals or other visitors after your trek.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to keep your dog under control, especially around livestock like cows and horses that may be grazing in the fields. After your walk, The Long Man Pub at the base of the hill is a welcoming spot that allows dogs, so you can both enjoy a well-deserved rest and refreshment. Ensure you bring water for your dog, especially on warmer days.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystery of the Long Man
+3Some historical records suggest the figure was re-carved in the 17th or 18th century, but its true age and purpose remain elusive. This ambiguity adds to its allure, drawing visitors who are fascinated by its enigmatic past. The figure is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, highlighting its historical significance.
+1Recent observations have noted subtle changes or 'new developments' in its form, such as a curve appearing between the legs, suggesting ongoing maintenance or natural erosion. These subtle shifts only add to the ongoing mystery and intrigue surrounding this ancient landmark.
Hiking and Views of the South Downs
Visitors often describe the walk as invigorating, with the reward of breathtaking vistas at the summit. On a clear day, you can see for miles, taking in the quintessential English countryside. It's a popular spot for walkers and ramblers who appreciate the natural beauty and the sense of tranquility.
Be prepared for varying weather conditions. While sunny days are glorious, the exposed hillside can be quite windy, so dressing in layers is advisable. The hike is considered moderately challenging, making it a rewarding experience for those who enjoy outdoor activity.
Local Amenities and Refreshments
+1Beyond the pub, the nearby village of Wilmington provides additional amenities, including a church with an ancient yew tree and lovely interior, offering a glimpse into local history and architecture.
For those who prefer to picnic, there are opportunities to enjoy your own food amidst the scenic surroundings, provided you practice responsible tourism and take all litter with you.
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