Description

This monument comprises a prehistoric fort, formed by a low bank and ditch, accompanied on the E by an outer bank and ditch, which cut off a coastal promontory 950m W of Craigview farmsteading.

The interior of the earthwork, which can be interpreted as a prehistoric defensive settlement, measures about 27m by 23m. In 1981 a piece of vitrified rock was recovered from the earthen core of the inner bank, which suggests that the earthwork probably had a timber-framed construction. The site is under permanent pasture and, although the surviving physical remains are slight, the area does not appear to have been improved.

The area to be scheduled measures 95m from NNW to SSE by 70m transversely, to include the earthwork and an area around in which associated remains may survive, as marked in red on the attached map.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Statement of Scheduling

The monument is of national importance because it is a well-preserved example of a small prehistoric settlement which, although overlooked, has substantial defences relative to the size of the area enclosed. Prehistoric coastal settlements of this nature are rare in this part of Scotland and this monument therefore has the potential to provide important information about the nature and structure of prehistoric society.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Sources

Bibliography

RCAHMS records the monument as NX 07 NE 2.

Reference:

RCAHMS 1981, The Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland. The archaeological sites and monuments of South Carrick, Kyle and Carrick District, Strathclyde Region, The archaeological sites and monuments of Scotland series no 14 Edinburgh, No. 125.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland