GM062

North Hill Tor Camp  

 

Designated  

Swansea  

Llangennith, Llanmadoc and Cheriton  

245282  

193790  

Monument  

Promontory Fort- coastal  

Medieval  

The following provides a general description of the Scheduled Ancient Monument. 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 narrow coastal promontory above the sea that marks part of the defensive circuit. The construction of one or more ramparts placed across the neck of the promontory divide it from the mainland. The site exploits an impressive natural rock outcrop jutting out on the cliff line for defence, with the defended area lying in the lee (south-east) of the rocks, on the shoulder of the spur. The inner rampart rises to a maximum height of about 2.5m above the interior, although it almost disappears at the southern end, where there may be an entrance. The maximum distance from the crest of the bank to the bottom of the ditch (there is no berm) is about 4.5m, on the east side. The bottom of the ditch is not always appreciably below the natural ground surface, although the outer (counterscarp) bank, about 1.5m high, gives an illusion of depth. It is possible that some of the material for the construction of both banks may have come from levelling in the interior. The outer bank is somewhat difficult to see clearly. 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.