Description

The monument comprises the remains of a hillfort, which probably dates to the Iron Age period (c. 800 BC - AD 74, the Roman conquest of Wales). Slwch Tump is located on the summit of a prominent hill on the N side of the Usk Valley, 1km to the SE of the confluence of the river Usk with the rivers Tarrel and Honddu. The enclosure is sub-oval in plan measuring 187m N/S by 242m E/W, covering and area of 3.8ha, surrounded by a single much reduced bank beyond which the ground drop steeply away on the S and W sides. For most of its length the rampart survives as a single, outward facing scarp of earth and stone between 3m and 4.6m high. On the NE side of the enclosure a 10m length of bank retains it inner face which survives to a height of 0.6m. Traces of the ditch can be seen on the E and N sides, with the natural topography of the hill rendering a ditch unnecessary on the S and E sides. The ditch survives as a 10m wide terrace on the N side, while on the E side it is visible as a 0.9m deep linear depression. Here faint traces of an outer bank are also visible. The entrance is on the NE side, where the rampart turns inwards either side of a sloping track. The interior of the enclosure has been ploughed and there are modern fences and field banks crossing the line of the original rampart.

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, 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.

Source: Cadw