Description

The monument comprises the remains of an enclosed settlement of prehistoric date represented by cropmarks visible on oblique aerial photographs.

The monument lies on sloping ground on the N bank of Denmark Burn at around 50m OD. The enclosure is defined by a broad ditch some 6m wide enclosing an oval area some 75m NE-SW by 50m. The S of the enclosure is defined not by a ditch but by the Denmark Burn. The monument appears to represent the remains of prehistoric enclosed settlement and is of similar size and form to a further enclosure some 300m to the E. The surrounding area is rich in the remains of prehistoric settlement and economic activity although enclosed settlement is relatively rare.

The ground on which the enclosure lies is ill-drained and far from ideal as a settlement location. It is possible that the rather broad surrounding ditch was intended to drain the settlement area inside.

The area to be scheduled encompasses the visible features and an area around them in which traces of associated activity may be expected to survive. It is semi-circular with a diameter of 110m, edging against the Denmark Burn, as marked in red on the accompanying map. Existing drains are excluded from the scheduling, to allow for maintenance.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Statement of Scheduling

The monument is of national importance because of its potential to add to our understanding of prehistoric settlement and economy. Its importance is considerably enhanced by its association with the wider landscape of prehistoric settlement in this part of the Lunan Valley.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Sources

Bibliography

RCAHMS records the monument as NO 64 NW 48.

References:

RCAHMS 1978, The archaeological sites and monuments of Lunan Valley, Montrose Basin, Angus District, Tayside Region, The archaeological sites and monuments of Scotland series no 4 Edinburgh, No. 205.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland