GM377

Ringwork & Bailey at Gelligarn  

24/11/1975  

Designated  

Vale of Glamorgan  

Llangan  

296056  

178688  

Defence  

Ringwork and bailey  

Medieval  

The following provides a general description of the Scheduled Ancient Monument. The monument comprises the remains of a well preserved castle-ringwork and bailey, which dates to the medieval period (c. AD 1066 - 1485). The ringwork consists of a low mound c. 1m high on the north side and 2m high on the south. It has a low bank all around measuring c. 7m wide with an internal height of 0.5-0.7m. On the north and east sides there is a very shallow ditch. On the south side the ditch is 2m wide and 0.7m deep, with a 6m wide external bank. This ditch and bank continue towards the east and then peter out. In the field to the west of the modern drive a low broad bank 2m high on the lower (south) side and 1m high on the higher (north) side runs westwards to the edge of the field. At its east end it curves round towards the north. The monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance our knowledge of medieval settlement, organisation and defence. The site forms an important element within the wider medieval landscape. It 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.