Chalk figures in England have a long, somewhat murky history. They date back to ancient times, standing as quiet witnesses to centuries gone by. Each figure seems to hold a story, a purpose crafted by long-lost communities on the chalk-rich slopes of southern England.
The oldest of these hillside carvings is the White Horse of Uffington, thought to have been crafted during the Bronze Age around 3,000 years ago. This iconic figure, nearly 110 metres long, is defined by its sleek, flowing lines. To create such works, early Britons scratched away the top layer of soil to reveal the stark white chalk beneath. The method was simple, yet the resulting designs could be intricate and awe-inspiring.
Throughout history, these chalk figures have captured the imagination of locals and travellers alike. In the past, they were linked to folklore, believed to hold protective properties or to influence fertility. Communities would gather for rituals at these sites, engraving them into local culture and lore. As their stories spread, the figures gained new meanings, evolving with the societies that cherished them.
The Uffington White Horse
Set on the rolling hills of Oxfordshire, the Uffington White Horse is a prime example of ancient craftsmanship. Its sleek, suggestive design leads many to ponder its meaning—is it a tribal symbol, a tribute to a deity, or perhaps a marker of territory? Theories abound, yet none provide a definitive answer, adding to its allure.
The Cerne Abbas Giant
Perhaps the most controversial of all is the Cerne Abbas Giant in Dorset. This figure, a large, naked man brandishing a club, has sparked debate for centuries. Some see it as an ancient symbol of fertility, while others claim it’s a satire of Roman rule. Its distinct look and size have led to much discussion, with no single narrative prevailing.
The Long Man of Wilmington (East Sussex)
One of the most famed chalk drawings in England is the Long Man of Wilmington, carved into the South Downs near Alfriston, a pretty village in East Sussex. This 70 ft giant man has remained a puzzle for generations, as to who he is, and why he got there. Believed to be from as early as the Iron Age or built by Romans, there is a sketch from 1710, so we know he is over 300 years old.
The white chalk had faded, but in 1920 local people and historians got out their chisel and paint, and gave him a makeover, and today it has some concrete blocks, so is easy to maintain.
The Long Man holds a stave in each hand, with some believing these to be either to symbolise his strength, or perhaps to measure the land or he perhaps was an astronomer? Or he is watching over the fields? Nobody knows.
One tale is that he marks the site of eternal rest, of two giant brothers who roamed the South Downs, and fell in battle. If you wish to visit the Long Man without a big hike, it’s good viewed from Wilmington Priory.
Not as well known but close-by is the Litlington Horse. This little beauty is much newer, carved into the hillside only in 1924, crafted with precision to be a local landmark. The village is situated on the banks of the River Cuckmere, and dates back to Domesday times.
One of Litlington’s main claims to fame, is that it’s home to the smallest church in England. A charming architectural gem inspired by Gothic structure, it was built in the 13th century, so is much older than its horse friend – by several hundred years!
