Description

The monument comprises the remains of a prehistoric settlement visible as upstanding earthworks. Homestead settlements such as this are characteristic of the later Iron Age (c.100BC-AD500).

The homestead lies between 230m and 240m OD, on a steep south-facing hillslope where it commands extensive views over the surrounding countryside. It is roughly circular, 16.5m in internal diameter, and is defined by a substantial rampart standing up to 1m high and spread up to 3m wide. On the N side, the homestead is cut into the hillslope leaving a scarp 1.5-2m high.

A subcircular feature, roughly 7m in diameter, recorded in the interior may represent the remains of a house or other building. An entrance through the rampart on the W side is probably original: another on the E side appears to have been created by more recent disturbance.

Although the rampart around the homestead may appear defensive, the site is overlooked by the sloping ground immediately to the N and would have been very vulnerable to attack. Defence cannot have been the primary consideration in the construction of this site.

The area proposed for scheduling comprises the remains described and an area around them within which material relating to their construction and use may be expected to survive. It is circular with a diameter of 45m, 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 contribute to an understanding of prehistoric settlement and economy. Its archaeological potential is significant given its good state of preservation and its importance is increased by its proximity to other monuments of broadly contemporary date in the general vicinity.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Sources

Bibliography

RCAHMS records the monument as NN60NE66.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland