South Coast Challenge
South Coast Challenge
Walk, run or jog your way along the South Downs Way
Explore one of England's most scenic coastal paths as you make your way from Eastbourne, up Beachy Head, over the magnificent Seven Sisters, and along the famous South Downs Way National Trail with stunning views over the sea to Brighton. There are 3 different route length options so there's something to suit everyone!
Most importantly you'll be helping to ensure that no child has to face mental health problems alone.
Key information
- Date: 5-6 September 2026
- Location: South Downs Way
- Distance: Various distances
There are different challenge you can choose between when signing up to do the South Coast Challenge.
Full 100km continuous
The 100km continuous challenge takes place across the whole weekend, where you'll be walking from Eastbourne to Arundel.
Full 100km over two days
The 2-day 100km challenge breaks the route down into two days. You'll be completing 57km from Eastbourne to Hove on day 1, and 43km from Hove to Arundel on day 2. The whole route will be completed in the daylight and you'll have the opportunity to sleep overnight.
First half 57km
The first half challenge takes place on one day, where you'll be walking 57km from Eastbourne to Hove.
Second half 43km - from Hove to Arundel
You can choose whether to complete the Second Half Challenge on either the Saturday or the Sunday. You'll be walking 43km from Hove to Arundel.
Secure your spot on Team Place2Be today! Your registration fee and fundraising pledge vary depending on the challenge you choose.
- Registration fee: £30 - £89
- Fundraising pledge: £150 - £575
How we'll support you
When you join Team Place2Be, you'll get the superstar treatment!
Our fundraising pack full of top tips
A free Place2Be T-shirt to wear on your trek
Regular e-newsletters to keep you up to date and motivated in the lead up to the event
Support from our dedicated Events Team who will be on hand with training and fundraising advice
An invitation to a Place2Be school visit or webinar
Is the South Coast Challenge signposted?
There are lots of coloured arrows and markers to show the route. There's also a mobile app with the route and live-tracking you can use that won't drain your phone battery.
Do I need to bring my own food and drink over the weekend?
Whichever distance you sign up to take on, you'll get the following included:
- regular snack stops every 12.5km
- a meal every 25km
- hot drinks, water and energy drinks at all stops
- hot food at the end of your challenge.
Is my travel to and from the South Coast Challenge provided?
It depends which challenge you take on. Ultra Challenge have shuttle buses to and from the nearest train station for anyone needing to travel via train after the challenge. There's also big car parks at most of the finish lines.
Do I need to train before the South Coast Challenge?
It's best to be as prepared as you can be before taking on the challenge! Once you sign up with Ultra Challenge, you'll have access to their app which is full of training guides, maps, information about the event itself, as well as online forums.
More information
Have a question or would like more information? Get in touch with our team who will be happy to help!
- get in touch
- find more information about the South Coast Challenge from Ultra Chaellnge