Long Man of Wilmington Walk – Guide & Map

The Long Man of Wilmington walk offers a rewarding hike that combines natural beauty with rich historical insights. Starting in Polegate, the route takes you through the South Downs National Park. Along the way, you’ll encounter the ancient chalk figure of the Long Man of Wilmington, the historic village of Wilmington, and the secluded charm of Folkington. This guide covers key points of interest, making it an engaging choice for those who enjoy outdoor exploration and uncovering the history within the landscape.

Follow me to the South Downs National Park, for a walk to one of the biggest mysteries … Maybe we can solve it together?

Logistics of the Long Man of Wilmington Walk

Map of the Long Man of Wilmington Walk

Do you want to do this walk? Download the GPS map for free by clicking on the button below. Learn how to upload the map onto your GPS app but following my step-by-step guide here.

Highlights of the Long Man of Wilmington Walk

Long Man of Wilmington Walk

So now we covered the basics, let’s get to the walk!

Polgate

We start our walk at Polgate train station.

Polegate, located in East Sussex, has a rich history shaped by its role as a key railway junction in the 19th century. Originally a small settlement, the arrival of the railway in the 1840s transformed the town, connecting it to nearby market towns and industries. Although its importance as a railway hub has since diminished, Polegate’s historical roots remain visible in its layout and landmarks, such as St John’s Church.

Polegate sits uniquely on a ridge between two distinct landscapes: the Weald to the north and the South Downs to the south.

To leave Polegate and reach the hills, walk in the direction of Wannock in the southwest part of the town. There, you’ll find a kissing gate leading to a field where, if you are lucky, will be filled with sheep grazing.

Your journey to the Long Man of Wilmington and the South Downs National Park starts here. I carefully selected this route to avoid roads, allowing you to fully enjoy the National Park footpaths.

South Downs

The South Downs, a stunning expanse of chalk hills in southern England, is rich in both history and natural beauty. It is the newest of the 15 National Parks in the UK, officially established on 31 March 2010.

This area has been a significant site of human activity for over 5,000 years, with some of the earliest settlements established atop its prominent chalk ridge. These early communities, such as those at Cissbury Ring, strategically chose these elevated locations for their defensive advantages and expansive views. The remnants of these early activities can still be seen today in the historic buildings scattered across the South Downs.

The South Downs have also played a crucial role throughout various periods of British history. In Roman times, the area was considered a place of high status, evidenced by the construction of luxurious villas. The strategic importance of the South Downs continued into the Norman period and beyond. For example, beacons like the one at Ditchling were used to signal warnings of potential invasions, including during the threat of the Spanish Armada.

Even in the 20th century, during World War II, the South Downs were heavily fortified, with defences set up along the coast to protect against potential attacks.

The South Downs National Park is a popular spot for walkers, horse riders, and mountain bikers. The South Downs Way, a long-distance trail from Winchester to Eastbourne, runs along the chalk ridge, offering stunning views and plenty of paths to explore.

The Long Man of Wilmington

We are now walking up to Wilmington Hill, a prominent feature standing at approximately 214 meters (702 feet) above sea level. It is known for its chalk grassland, and once at the top, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the Weald. On a clear day, you can see as far as the English Channel.

Descend from the hilltop, and as you turn towards the hillside, you come face to face with the Long Man of Wilmington.

The origins of the Long Man of Wilmington remain unclear. The earliest confirmed record dates to 1710, though it may be older. Early theories ranged from a creation by monks to a Neolithic or Iron Age origin. Some believe it could represent the god Baldur, marking the summer solstice. However, archaeological work in 2003 suggests the figure may date from the 16th or 17th century, possibly as a political satire or religious image from the Tudor or Stuart era, making it an enigmatic Early Modern hill figure.

In recent years, the Long Man has been the target of some playful, and at times controversial, alterations. In 2010, pranksters added a large, temporary phallus to the figure, generating both amusement and debate. More recently, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Long Man was humorously outfitted with a large face mask, reflecting the global situation.

Wilmington Village

After all this walking, it’s time for a break!

Head to the village of Wilmington, a small, picturesque settlement known for its close proximity to the famous Long Man of Wilmington. The village has a rich history dating back to the medieval period, as evidenced by Wilmington Priory, originally a Benedictine priory founded in the 11th century.

A church, charming cottages, a serene rural atmosphere, and beautiful surrounding landscapes define the village, making it a peaceful retreat for visitors and a gateway to exploring the South Downs.

Optional: Forget the soggy sandwich sitting on a log and treat yourself to a pub lunch at the Long Man Inn.

Folkington Village

Enjoy the serene journey back through the fields before reaching the picturesque village of Folkington. This charming, secluded village is uniquely cut off from its surroundings by the lack of a through road. The quiet valley setting gives Folkington a magical, timeless feel, accentuated by its 13th-century church that towers above the traditional English homes scattered throughout the village.

Folkington is steeped in history, first mentioned in the 11th-century Domesday Book as Fochintone. Central to the village’s heritage is Folkington Manor, originally built in the 14th century and rebuilt in 1843. The manor has been home to various notable families, including Col. Rupert Gwynne, father of the renowned cookery writer Elizabeth David. Growing up in Folkington, Elizabeth David became a pivotal figure in British culinary history, inspiring many.

Back to Polegate

Leaving Folkington village behind, it is time to head back to Polegate. The return journey follows the same initial route, but with multiple footpaths cutting through the farmland where we first encountered the sheep, you have the opportunity to enjoy a fresh perspective by choosing an alternative path.

Once you reach the kissing gate in Wannock, retrace your steps back to the station.

Happy discovery!

Final Thoughts on the Long Man of Wilmington Walk

The Long Man of Wilmington walk offers a captivating journey through history and nature, leaving you with a taste for more of the South Downs’ hidden mysteries. If you’re intrigued by this walk, explore the Devil’s Punch Bowl, a dramatic natural amphitheatre steeped in folklore, or the Haunted Hills of Sussex, where tales of ghostly apparitions bring an eerie thrill to your hike. The South Downs offers a landscape rich with stories, each trail presenting its own unique blend of beauty and mystery

And you, what is your favourite walk in the South Downs? Let me know in the comments below.

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