Description

The monument comprises the remains of a rectilinear enclosed settlement of prehistoric date represented by cropmarks visible on oblique aerial photographs. The enclosure occupies the crest of a low hill commanding extensive views in all directions. It is defined by a rectilinear ditch and is almost square in shape with slightly bowed sides. It measures approximately 65m E-W by 60-65m N-S.

Breaks in the ditch suggest possible opposed entrances on the E and W sides of the enclosure. There are no clear traces of internal features. The monument appears to represent the remains of a defended, domestic settlement of a form believed to characterise native settlement partly contemporary with the period of Roman military activity in southern Scotland.

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. The area is irregular in shape with maximum dimensions of 150m E-W by 180m N-S as marked in red on the accompanying map.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Statement of Scheduling

The monument is of national importance because of its potential to add to our understanding of native settlement and society in the early centuries AD and of native/Roman interaction in that period. The site may also be expected to contain evidence relating to prehistoric economic practice and the contemporary environment.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Sources

Bibliography

RCAHMS records the monument as NT 47 NE 9.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland