Ringfort - rath

The National Monuments Service's description

At the narrow E end of a pasture field, utilising a low elevation in an area of gently undulating terrain, with very good views in all directions, especially extensive to W.
Raised circular area (35.6m E−W; 34.5m N−S) enclosed by a substantial earthen bank (Wth 7m at W, 5.8m at E; int. H 0.7m at W, 0.3m at E; ext. H 1.7m at W, 1.5m at E), with traces of an external fosse.
The bank has a high external scarp and a broad internal slump that merges almost seamlessly with interior ground level, giving the interior a somewhat saucer-shaped profile. The bank is best preserved on the N arc, and is noticeably lower and more slumped at E−SE. At SE there are traces of a ramp-like entrance (Wth c. 3m) which is slightly truncated by an E-W field fence that abuts the rath at this point.
A line (L 2m) of medium-sized stones protruding from the top of the bank at NW may be remnants of a later field fence. A field fence clips the bank on the S arc, respecting the curve of the rath; here the bank is considerably defaced on its external slope and is now topped by a post and wire fence.
A shallow depression (Wth 2.5-3m) outside the bank on the N arc and at E probably indicates a fosse. Immediately outside the bank at W there is a deep depression/sunken trackway (Wth base 2.6m; ext. D 0.7m) (shown on the 1930 OS 6-inch map), which probably utilises the line of an original fosse; it is bordered on its outer edge by a low rise (Wth 0.6-0.8m) lined with the stumps of felled hawthorn bushes.
A low dilapidated scarp, from which stones protrude randomly, crosses the interior roughly centrally on a NE−SW axis, marking a slight change in ground level, ground level to W being higher.
Grass cover; perimeter lightly ringed with hawthorn trees.

Compiled by: Jane O'Shaughnessy

Date of upload: 20 December 2022