Ringfort - rath

The National Monuments Service's description

In pasture, on a rise, with good views.
Subrectangular platform (27.2m N–S; 36m E–W) defined by a scarp (H 1.35m at S, 1.5m at N). The platform has relatively straight sides at S and W but curves at N−SE. It is enclosed by a broad and flat-based fosse (Wth 5.3m at E, 4.9m at W) with an external bank (Wth 6-6.5m; int. H 1.5m; ext. H 2.95m at S), outside which on the S half is a second fosse evident as a very shallow depression; at N side a slight rise or terrace (Wth 4-5m) can be traced outside the external bank which may be continuation of the second fosse.
The external bank is evident at E–NW as a substantial rampart with a broad top (Wth 1.6-1.8m) and a steep, high external slope enhanced by the natural fall of ground. The inner face has been cut to the vertical and is faced to almost its full height with drystone walling of large stones and blocks –this appears to be a relatively recent modification. At NW–ENE the bank has been modified to a steep external scarp (H 3.3m) topped with a drystone wall (Wth 0.8m; int. H 0.9m) built with relatively small field stones, again a modern feature.
The rath interior is level and featureless. There is an entrance at E where a slump (Wth 4-5m) in the inner scarp gives on to a causeway (Wth 4.3m) across the inner fosse, a corresponding break in the external bank (now partly blocked by stones), and another causeway/ramp over the outermost fosse.
Grass cover; hawthorn bushes ring the external bank.

Compiled by: Jane O’Shaughnessy

Date of upload: 20 May 2022