Long Man of Wilmington, East Sussex

Steve Slater / CC BY-SA 2.0

As I crested a hill to the west of Polegate in East Sussex, the Long Man of Wilmington rose up from the earth.

The Long Man of Wilmington is a human figure etched into the side of a hill, composed of white chalk. The figure stands at over 70 meters tall and can only be truly appreciated from a distance. The figure is thought to date back to the early modern period, with some speculating that it may even have prehistoric origins.

Despite its mysterious origins, the Long Man of Wilmington has become an iconic symbol of the surrounding area. The figure has inspired many myths and legends, with some claiming that it was the work of the devil, while others believe that it represents a lost pagan deity. Despite these fanciful tales, the figure's true meaning remains unknown.

As I stood in front of the Long Man of Wilmington, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder. The figure's stark white outline against the lush green hills was a testament to the incredible artistry and skill of its creators. The figure's immense size and detail made it impossible to ignore, and I found myself drawn into the mystery surrounding it. The figure's enigmatic presence is sure to inspire curiosity and wonder.

In addition to its historical and cultural significance, the Long Man of Wilmington is also an important natural landmark. The hill on which the figure is located is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), and is home to a variety of rare and endangered species of plants and animals.