Details

The monument includes the remains of a Medieval moated enclosure, ovoid in
shape, measuring some 95m north-south by 70m east-west in maximum external
dimensions. The waterfilled moat varies in width between 4m and 25m at the
north and south arms respectively. Entry to the moated island is provided by
the remains of a modern footbridge at the south-east angle. The moated island
is flat with no surface indication for the location of buildings or other
structural features. Two ponds to the north of the enclosure, and outside of
the scheduled area, are possibly the remains of fishponds associated with the
moated site.

MAP EXTRACT
The site of the monument is shown on the attached map extract.
It includes a 2 metre boundary around the archaeological features,
considered to be essential for the monument's support and preservation.

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.

Morley Ponds is a well-preserved example of a Hertfordshire moated site. The
site has been largely unaffected by later land use and as such has high
potential for the preservation of both wet and dry archaeological remains.

Source: Historic England

Sources

Other
Ordnance Survey Record F1, A.P.S., Ordnance Survey Record F1, (1971)
Private photos (1950's), (1950)
Title: Tithe Map (1845)
Source Date: 1845
Author:
Publisher:
Surveyor:

Source: Historic England