Reasons for Designation
During the earlier Iron Age (seventh to fifth centuries BC) a variety of different types of defensive settlements began to be constructed and occupied in the northern uplands of England. The most obvious sites were hillforts built in prominent locations. In addition to these a range of smaller sites, sometimes with an enclosed area of less than 1ha and defined as defended settlements, were also constructed. Some of these were located on hilltops, others are found in less prominent positions. The enclosing defences were of earthen construction, some sites having a single bank and ditch (univallate), others having more than one (multivallate). At some sites these earthen ramparts represent a second phase of defence, the first having been a timber fence or palisade. Within the enclosure a number of stone or timber-built round houses were occupied by the inhabitants. Stock may also have been kept in these houses, especially during the cold winter months, or in enclosed yards outside them. The communities occupying these sites were probably single family groups, the defended settlements being used as farmsteads. Construction and use of this type of site extended over several centuries, possibly through to the early Romano-British period (mid to late first century AD). Defended settlements are a rare monument type. They were an important element of the later prehistoric settlement pattern of the northern uplands and are important for any study of the developing use of fortified settlements during this period. All well-preserved examples are believed to be of national importance.
The defended settlement, 1.05 km north west of North Farm survives well and represents a good example of a small northern defended settlement. It provides insight into the diversity of settlement forms during the Iron Age. The presence of upstanding earthworks indicates that the monument will contain archaeological deposits relating to its construction, use and abandonment and environmental deposits relating to the use of the surrounding landscape.
Details
The monument includes the remains of an Iron Age defended settlement situated on a slight ridge overlooking Howe Water. The settlement survives as an enclosure, sub-oval in shape, which has been constructed to follow the natural contours of the ridge upon which it is located. Where the slope is steepest it has been scarped to form a berm with an average width of 4m. The enclosure is surrounded on all other sides by a double bank and ditch, the latter is on average about 10m wide There is an entrance through the ramparts on the south west side.
Legacy
The contents of this record have been generated from a legacy data system.
Legacy System number:
ND 432
Legacy System:
RSM - OCN
End of official list entry
