The first Challenge was in 2013, so it is now in its eleventh 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 Saturday 6th July 2024.
The original event 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. Part of the funds raised are set aside towards the next re-paint of the lighthouse with the rest donated to local charities which have including the RNLI Eastbourne).
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 £9.00 for adults, or £4.00 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, for which entry fees will increase to £10.00 and £5.00 respectively, but we strongly urge booking online in advance.
For further information (can we bring dogs, is it ok for children) and FAQ's please visit our website www.eastbourneam.org
