The Alcove, Piercefield

Cadw's description

Summary description and reason for designation

The following provides a general description of the Scheduled Ancient Monument.

The monument consists of a folly, dating to the 18th century. A folly is a structure, often found in 18th century landscape gardens, that demonstrates eccentricity or excess rather than practical purpose. They can take many forms - ruins, sham castles, towers, hermits' cells or grottoes. This Alcove represents the southernmost structure of the Piercefield Walk and is a semi-octagonal platform supporting a semi-circular stone ‘alcove’ seat looking out upon spectacular views of the gorge, Chepstow castle and town.

The monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance our knowledge of 18th century settlement organisation. It retains significant archaeological potential, with a strong probability of the presence of associated archaeological features and deposits. The structure itself may be expected to contain archaeological information concerning chronology and building techniques.

The scheduled area comprises the remains described and areas around them within which related evidence may be expected to survive