Fishpond Camp

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 74, the Roman conquest of Wales). It is located on an inland promontory naturally defended on three sides by steep slopes that lead down to what would have been part of a small valley or possibly a coastal inlet and which is now flooded as artificial ponds. Across the unprotected northwest side of the promontory are a complex series of defences of probably of two phases. The outer main defence consists of a double bank and ditch with a simple entrance towards the south end. About 30m inside this is a slighter bank connected to the main banks by lateral banks to form an internal annexe, the enclosed area beyond is about 100m square. Another c 30m within this is a second slight bank and ditch of probably a different phase. A midden investigated within angle of ditch produced what is thought to be an early Iron Age bronze pin together with animal bone and shell, whilst a small Romano-British ceramic assemblage including a Samian ware plate has been reported from the interior.

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, 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.