There are many figures cut into chalk across the UK. The Uffington Horse is possibly one of the oldest - but such figures are notoriously hard to date. In Wiltshire, a county with much chalk land, there is a promoted circular walk taking in some 16 white horses. I haven’t done it: it is rather long. There are various means of maintaining the figures and most involve community action, extending back for centuries.
Including the Cerne Abbas Giant
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cerne_Abbas_Giant.
In Wiltshire, where, as Willesdon noted, there is much chalk land, the figures are created by just clearing away the turf to reveal the unerlying chalk. No need to “apply” chalk to the figure.
ETA that, if you go to see the Uffington White Horse, you will be close to the famous horse racing village of Lambourn. It is the second largest center for racehorse training (especially racing over fences) in England, with over 50 “racing yards” and 500 acres of training grounds for race horses.
Many of the figures are cut into really steep slopes, to make them as visible as possible. The white horse in Pewsey, Wiltshire, requires people regularly abseiling down on ropes to clean the chalk and keep it clear of encroaching weeds. The Uffington white horse can only be clearly seen from a distance or from the air. On the ground the natural undulations make it very hard to see the whole structure, which makes it’s construction even more remarkable.
I have this tattooed on my side. 
I saw this in person a long time ago on a bus tour in England, and it is even more incredible than the pictures!!
I just have to say it: interesting man parts on the giant! 
