Beachy Head Lighthouse Challenge

Some 1700 walkers descended on Eastbourne‘s stunning coastline on Sunday 14 June to take part in the annual Beachy Head Lighthouse Challenge. The challenge, which began in 2013, attracts walkers from across the country and follows a scenic but demanding route along the Eastbourne seafront and over the Downs. From there, participants descend the Cow Gap steps to the beach and then over rocks, boulders, sand and slippery seaweed to the lighthouse.  It was originally created to support the "Save the Stripes" campaign, which raised £30,000 to repaint the Beachy Head Lighthouse. Without the fundraising effort, the lighthouse’s distinctive red and white stripes would have been left to fade away. Due to its popularity, the event has continued each year, organised by the Rotary Club of Eastbourne AM, with the support of volunteers, to raise funds for local charities.
 
The proceeds this year will be shared between various local charities, including the RNLI (Eastbourne), Beachy Head Chaplaincy Team, RAYNET (the UK's National Voluntary Communications Service), as well as supporting local charitable projects and other good causes. In addition to this we will be announcing a special donation for our 2026 nominated key charity, St Wilfrid's Hospice.
 
Rotarian Martin Wellings said: "What a day. The walk was enjoyed by so many people, and we are thrilled by the very high level of support for this event. It was a tremendous day all round. The feeling when you reach the Lighthouse is always a special one, a real sense of achievement. Of course, there is then the journey back, but it was a lovely day and everyone could admire the wonderful scenery of our beautiful town."
 
Eastbourne AM Rotary Club wishes to thank everyone who took part, volunteered and donated, helping to ensure another successful year for one of Eastbourne’s most cherished fundraising events.

Video courtesy of Rupert Kirby