Description

The monument comprises the remains of a defended enclosure, which probably dates to the Iron Age period (c. 800 BC - AD 43). The enclosure is located on a coastal promontory naturally protected to the south and east by high sea cliffs and to the north by a series of four substantial ramparts created by scarping and terracing of the natural north- facing slope to produce an impressive effect when viewed from the land. A gap midway along the defences marks an entrance. The innermost rampart stands to between 4 and 5m high incurving at the entrance, west of which the ramparts take in a small triangular annexe or ‘forecourt’ space. Traces of walling, including imported limestone and quartz blocks have been observed in ploughsoil at the foot of the outer annexe rampart and around the entrance. The interior of the enclosure measures c 120m east to west by c 55m north to south although it must have once been larger as traces of the defences survive on at least one of the stacks left by coastal erosion out to sea. Outside of the ramparts east of the entrance an open and relatively level area may indicate an outer enclosure as the natural slope that defines the northern edge appears to have been modified with evidence to suggest an entrance with an oblique approach. Further evidence of ploughed-out banks at a greater distance has been suggested from aerial photographs.

The monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance our knowledge of later prehistoric defensive organisation and settlement. The site forms an important element within the wider later prehistoric context and within the surrounding landscape. The site is well preserved and retains considerable archaeological potential. There is a strong probability of the presence of evidence relating to chronology, layout, building techniques and functional detail.

The scheduled area comprises the remains described and areas around them within which related evidence may be expected to survive but excludes the conjectured outer enclosures lying beyond the main lines of defence.

Source: Cadw