Summary

Multivallate defended settlement, 391m WNW of Craghead.

Source: Historic England

Details

This record was the subject of a minor enhancement on 26 May 2016. This record has been generated from an "old county number" (OCN) scheduling record. These are monuments that were not reviewed under the Monuments Protection Programme and are some of our oldest designation records.

The monument includes the remains of a defended settlement of Iron Age date, situated on a north east facing slope overlooking the River Coquet. The settlement includes a near circular enclosure with an approximate diameter of 52m. It is surrounded by multiple banks and ditches with triple ramparts around the majority of the enclosure and double ramparts on the north side where the steep slope offers a natural defence. The ramparts are associated with a medial ditch with an extra outer ditch on the south side. The defences are interrupted by an entrance on the south east side. The interior of the enclosure has been partially terraced on the south side and contains at least three hut circles, which vary in diameter from 6m to 8m.

Source: Historic England

Reasons for Scheduling

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 multivallate defended settlement WNW of Craghead is well-preserved and the extent of its upstanding earthworks indicates that it will contain archaeological deposits relating to its construction, use and abandonment. It is a good example of its type and provides insight into settlement and subsistence during the Iron Age.

Source: Historic England

Sources

Other
PastScape Monument No:- 4439

Source: Historic England