Reasons for Designation
During the later prehistoric period (7th - 5th centuries BC) a variety of
different types of defensive settlements were 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.
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.
Details
The monument includes the remains of a defended settlement of Iron Age date
situated on the western slope of Beanley Moor. The roughly circular enclosure
is 50m east-west by 45m north-south within a single stoney rampart 9m wide and
standing to a maximum height of 0.5m. The broad rampart has been much robbed
of stone on the north and eastern sides giving the impression of there having
been a double rampart. There is an entrance 4m wide through the rampart in the
south-western side of the enclosure. Within the enclosure there are the well-
preserved foundations of a prehistoric house situated against the south wall
of the enclosure, immediately to the right of the entrance. The foundations
are 7.5m in diameter and the walls stand to a height of 0.3m. Several other
circular hollows may be the sites of further round houses.
Legacy
The contents of this record have been generated from a legacy data system.
Legacy System number:
21026
Legacy System:
RSM
End of official list entry
