Reasons for Designation
Around 6,000 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. In some
cases the islands were used for horticulture. The majority of moated sites
served as prestigious aristocratic and seigneurial residences with the
provision of a moat intended as a status symbol rather than a practical
military defence. 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 the understanding
of the distribution of wealth and status in the countryside. Many examples
provide conditions favourable to the survival of organic remains.
Details
The moated site at Glottenham Castle includes a rectangular moat defining an
island 50m long and 35m across, with a low external bank on the eastern side.
Moated sites are generally seen as the prestigious residences of the Lords of
the manor. The moat marked the high status of the occupier, but also served
to deter casual raiders and wild animals. Most moats were constructed between
1250 and 1350, and partial excavation of the site at Glottenham has shown that
a date around 1300 is entirely appropriate for the site.
Historical records suggest that Glottenham became the family seat of the de
Etchinghams until it was abandoned in the late 16th or 17th century.
Outside the moated area on the east side is an obliquely-aligned bank no more
then 30cm in height. The causeway at the north-west corner is a recent
addition but at the north-east corner an original leat survives which drained
the water from the moat.
The main feature of the excavations was the discovery of a stone-built
gatehouse on the west side of the moat island which straddled the entrance
road.
All above-ground structures within the scheduled area are excluded from the
scheduling, fencing forming the main example.
Legacy
The contents of this record have been generated from a legacy data system.
Legacy System number:
12740
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
