Crowhill Rath

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 74, the Roman conquest of Wales). Inland promontory forts are usually located on a ridge or spur with steep slopes on 2 or 3 sides, and artificial ramparts on the level approaches. Alternatively they may have been constructed on a promontory above the confluence of two rivers, or in the bend of a meander. Crowhill Rath is an oval shaped enclosure that measures c 60m north west to south east by 76m, it is located on an inland spur on the west side of the Western Cleddau above a stream to the south and defended on these sides by scarping of the naturally steep slopes. The vulnerable north and west sides are protected by a single curving bank and ditch. The bank stands c 1.3m above the ditch and c 1m above the interior. The enclosure’s original entrance may have been on the north east.

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.