Details

The moated site at Quorndon is situated on a tributary of the River Soar which
flows through low-lying ground south of the village. It also includes a
fishpond and a series of water channels. A watermill stood to the north of
the site, outside the protected area, the mill leat running to the east.

The rectangular moated site is situated on the eastern bank of the stream and
measures 90m x 80m in overall dimensions. The moat arms vary between 8m-12m
in width and are about 1.5m deep with outer banks evident on all sides except
the north. The moat island measures 40m x 50m and contains a series of
irregular earthworks which have the appearance of building foundations. On
the southern and western side are several feeder channels connecting the moat
with the stream, those on the south consisting of a complex system of
channels, some of which are embanked up to 0.75m. To complement this, two
wide outflow channels run from the north side of the moat taking the flow of
water back to the stream. To the east of the moat is an area which is now
totally waterlogged but which contained a fishpond measuring approximately 80m
x 25m.

The moated site was the lodge for the northern subdivision of Quorn Park built
shortly after 1273.

MAP EXTRACT
The site of the monument is shown on the attached map extract.

Source: Historic England

Reasons for Scheduling

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.

The moated site at Quorndon and adjoining complex of water channels survive in
good condition. The remains of the building which formerly occupied the moat
will survive and the site provides conditions for the survival of organic
remains in its waterlogged fishpond.

Source: Historic England

Sources

Books and journals
Hartley, R F, The Medieval Earthworks of Central Leicestershire, (1989), 11,25

Source: Historic England