Description

The monument consists of two adjoining promontory forts, which are probably of Iron Age date.

The western fort is the more impressive, with a double bank and ditch on the W side and a triple line of defence on the E. On the W the inner bank is 1.7m high and the ditch up to 1.6m deep. The outer bank and ditch are best preserved on the NW side. The entrance causeway is from the N, and E of this the ramparts are less impressive. The interior of the fort is featureless. The outer rampart and ditch have been much reduced to the W of the field boundary which lies to the W of the site. The area enclosed is approximately 65m by 25m, but has probably been reduced by coastal erosion.

The eastern fort's defences adjoin those of the neighbouring fort, but it is not possible to determine (without excavation) the sequence of construction. This fort is much slighter, being defined by a ditch curving across the neck of a small headland. The ditch is up to 15m across and 4m deep, measured from the interior. There is an entrance causeway at the E end. The rampart which lies within the ditch is much reduced, and may never have been very substantial. It is about 3m across. The area enclosed is approximately 55m by 10m, probably reduced by coastal erosion since the fort's construction.

The area to be scheduled is irregular, measuring a maximum of 125m WNW-ESE by 110, to include both forts and a small area outside in

which evidence relating to their construction and use may survive.

The area is bounded on the seaward side by the edge of the cliffs,

and on the NW by a field boundary, which is not included. Also

excluded is the field boundary which runs just inland from the

clifftop. The area is shown in red on the accompanying map.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Statement of Scheduling

The monument is of national importance as a fine example of Iron Age coastal defensive settlement. Of particular importance is the potential for establishing the sequence of construction of two adjacent forts, which could have significant implications for understanding the development and social significance of such forts. In addition the monument is likely to contain evidence relating to Iron Age defensive architecture and domestic economy.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Sources

Bibliography

The monument is recorded in the RCAHMS as NX 43 SE 1 and 3.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland