Reasons for Designation
Stone hut circles and hut circle settlements were the dwelling places of prehistoric farmers. Most date from the Bronze Age (c.2000-700 BC). The stone- based round-houses consist of low walls or banks enclosing a circular floor area; the remains of the turf, thatch or heather roofs are not preserved. The huts may occur singly or in small or large groups and may lie in the open or be enclosed by a bank of earth or stone. Frequently traces of their associated field systems may be found immediately around them. These may be indicated by areas of clearance cairns and/or the remains of field walls and other enclosures. The longevity of use of hut circle settlements and their relationship with other monument types provides important information on the diversity of social organisation and farming practices amongst prehistoric communities. They are particularly representative of their period. Despite the addition of some cleared stone, the stone hut circle 390m south east of Little Brea Farm survives well and will contain archaeological and environmental evidence relating to its construction, longevity, agricultural practices, domestic arrangements, abandonment and overall landscape context.
Details
The monument includes a stone hut circle, situated on the lower northern slopes of the prominent coastal hill called Carn Brea. The stone hut circle survives as a circular central area of approximately 7m in diameter defined by 1.4m high and 1.7m thick walls with some inner and outer facing orthostats. The hut circle has been incorporated into a field boundary. The hut circle was first noted by Dudley.
Legacy
The contents of this record have been generated from a legacy data system.
Legacy System number:
CO 871
Legacy System:
RSM - OCN
End of official list entry
