Promontory Fort on Worms Head

Cadw's description

Summary description and reason for designation

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 inner summit of the coastal promontory of Worms Head is reachable along a causeway of natural rock for a few hours each side of low tide. On its summit are traces of a low terrace and a stone rampart along the approximate line of the 30m contour, enclosing an area of about 0.6 of a hectare. The long narrow enclosure backs on to the sea cliff along its long north eastern side and is strikingly different from the bank and ditch promontory forts normal to Gower. The enclosed area is 203m in length and 43m wide at its widest point, its defences being about 1m high and 3m to 4m wide. It is defined by a scarp and the remains of the rampart.

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.