Description

The monument comprises the remains of a palisaded enclosure visible as a series of earthworks. Palisaded enclosures are defended farmsteads characterised by substantial enclosing timber palisade walls dating from the late Bronze Age or early Iron Age (c.1000-500BC).

The monument lies at around 320m OD on a N-facing spur of Loddan Hill, overlooking the confluence of Hazelton Sike and the Kale Water. The enclosure is roughly oval on plan with maximum dimensions of about 40m NE-SW by 25m transversely. The palisade trench which defined the enclosure appears to have been re-worked at least once and possibly several times.

At the best preserved section it survives up to 0.9m wide and 0.2m deep. The entrance to the settlement was probably in the NE. Within the interior, the ditches of several round timber houses can be seen (a type known as 'ring-ditch' houses), measuring up to 8m in diameter.

The area to be scheduled comprises the remains described and an area around them within which related evidence may be expected to survive. It is circular on plan and has maximum dimensions of approximately 60m in diameter, as shown in red on the accompanying map.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Statement of Scheduling

The monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance our knowledge of prehistoric settlement, architecture, economy and social organisation. Its importance is greatly enhanced by the evident length of occupation and remodelling of the site.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Sources

Bibliography

RCAHMS records the monument as NT 71 SE 82.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland