Reasons for Designation
Around 6000 moated sites are known in England. They consist of wide ditches,
often or seasonally water-filled, partly or completely enclosing one or more
islands of dry ground on which stood domestic or religious buildings or, in
some cases, which were used for horticulture. The peak period during which
moated sites were built was between about 1250 and 1350 and by far the
greatest concentration lies in central and eastern parts of England.
However, moated sites were built throughout the medieval period, are widely
scattered throughout England, and exhibit a high level of diversity in their
forms and sizes. They form a significant class of medieval monument and are
important for understanding the distribution of wealth and status in the
countryside. Many examples provide conditions favourable to the survival of
organic remains.
This site includes a fine example of a Bedfordshire moated enclosure,
importantly associated with the well-preserved remains of contemporary
manorial out-works and building platforms.
Details
The monument includes the remains of a medieval moated enclosure and
adjacent manorial complex. The almost square moated site measures 84m across
and is surrounded by a 13m wide moat which is about 1.5m deep and partially
water-filled. Part of an outer bank can be seen along the northern arm of
the moat. Entrance to the interior is on the south side across a 2m wide
causeway. The flat island is slightly raised above the surrounding land.
There are no visible remains of internal buildings or features.
The moat is identified with the original medieval manor of Stratton, but
was replaced as the main residence when the lord of the manor moved to
nearby Stratton Park House in the 16th century.
Adjacent to the east side of the moat are the remains of a complex network
of hollow-ways, fields and platforms. These survive as well-defined
earthworks, often up to 1m. in height and are interpreted as the sites of
contemporary manorial out-works comprising of horticultural plots and out-
house buildings associated with the moated site.
Legacy
The contents of this record have been generated from a legacy data system.
Legacy System number:
11541
Legacy System:
RSM
Sources
Books and journals Other
Legal
This monument is scheduled under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979 as amended as it appears to the Secretary of State to be of national importance. This entry is a copy, the original is held by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.
End of official list entry
