Beachy Head Lighthouse Challenge

The first Challenge was in 2013, so it is now in its thirteenth year (2020 was cancelled due to COVID). There are very few days when it is possible to walk around the lighthouse as it must be during spring tides, when it is light enough and on a weekend – this year it will take place on Sunday 14th June 2026.

The original Beachy Head Lighthouse Challenge was organised by the Rotary Club of Eastbourne AM in conjunction with the “Save the Stripes” campaign and supported by the Eastbourne Herald, in order to raise money to repaint the Beachy Head lighthouse at a cost of some £30,000. Had this not been undertaken the iconic red and white stripes would have been allowed to fade and eventually disappear. Due to the popularity of the event, Eastbourne AM Rotary Club has continued to organise the Challenge every year since, with the help of volunteers. Since 2013 the bulk of the funds raised have been used to support local charities, but with a proportion set aside towards the next re-paint of the lighthouse, which actually took place last summer. Furthermore Trinity House, who are responsible for the general upkeep of the lighthouse, have advised that they will in future take responsibility for all painting when it becomes necessary. Therefore, with effect from this year, all proceeds from the Challenge will now be used for local charitable purposes, including donations for our regular beneficiaries, RNLI (Eastbourne) and others. We will also be introducing a key charity each year to receive a special donation which, for 2026, will be St Wilfrid’s Hospice.

The arrival point will be at the kiosk at the foot of the Downs by St. Bede’s school in Eastbourne. On arrival, participants proceed up the lane for about half a mile to Whitbread Hollow where they will see the check-in desks.

Once checked-in, we set off across the Downs to Cow Gap (approx. 15 minutes), down the steps to the beach and over the rocks, boulders, sand and slippery seaweed to the lighthouse (approx. 60 minutes).

On return, all participants will receive a certificate to authenticate that they are one of the few people who have undertaken the “Lighthouse Challenge”.

There is an entry fee of £10.00 for adults, or £5.00 for under 16's. Please note that refunds cannot be issued within 7 days before the event. It may be possible to register on the day, but we strongly urge booking online in advance.

For further information and FAQ's please visit our website www.eastbourneam.org