Beautiful bench sculptures are unveiled in South Downs National Park
May 9, 2025
Four bespoke oak benches with landscape-inspired inscriptions have been unveiled at a beautiful dew pond near Eastbourne.
The new benches at Warren Hill will provide a place for gathering, as well as rest and reflection, for people of all ages and abilities, allowing appreciation of the surrounding landscape and stunning views across Eastbourne and the Seven Sisters towards the sea.
The benches have been designed and carved by sculptor Will Spankie, with inscriptions written by Lewes-based artist and writer Alinah Azadeh, who was the National Park’s Writer in Residence at Seven Sisters from 2020 to 2023.
The project has been led by Towner Eastbourne, with support from the South Downs National Park Authority, East Sussex County Council and the Eastbourne Downland Group.
As well as offering breathtaking views and a variety of habitats to explore and learn about, there is significant archaeology near the dew pond, with evidence of human activity dating back to the Stone Age.
Each bench has been inscribed with a text written by Alinah Azadeh – entitled ‘To the North’, ‘To the South’, ‘To the East’ and ‘To the West’.
Sara Cooper, Head of Collections and Exhibitions at Towner Eastbourne, said: “It’s been fantastic working collaboratively with artists Alinah Azadeh and Will Spankie to bring the project to fruition. We’ve been fascinated to learn more about the positive impact that being in nature has on mental and physical health, and are pleased to contribute to providing a site where people can gather, exercise or just sit and enjoy views of this amazing landscape; a critical factor in helping to enhance mood and reduce stress.’
Lady Antonia Lucas, of the Eastbourne Downland Group, said: ‘Warren Hill is a lovely safe, accessible location for rest and reflection, a picnic or even to bring a sketchbook to record the brilliant views over the town and the Downs.’
Pics by Cameron Brown and Claire Kerr