Low Bank on Coastal Slope, West Challacombe Farm, Combe Martin, West Exmoor Coast

Record ID:  100905 / MNA148437
Record type:  Boundary
Protected Status: None Recorded
NT Property:  West Exmoor Coast; South West
Civil Parish:  Combe Martin; North Devon; Devon
Grid Reference:  SS 58749 48080
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Summary

Low, indistinct bank 25-30m long x 1-1.2m wide x 0-3-0.5m high.

Identification Images (0)

Monument Types

  • BOUNDARY BANK (Undated)

Description

Low, indistinct bank 25-30m long x 1-1.2m wide x 0-3-0.5m high. Bank is aligned NNW-SSE on narrow strip of slope between fields and the large erosion gully E of Little Hangman. At the upper SE end the bank fades into the slope just below the coastal path. Is more distinct lower down, before fading again before the large erosion gully. Little indication of the feature turning along the contour although possible lines of banks/scarps have been noticed along the slope to the E viewed from Little Hangman. However it is possible that such features reflect the underlying geology which forms parallel ridges along the coastal slopes.

According to the farmer Dave Legg, some possible banks were visible on the slopes after swaling, although the slopes are now covered with thick vegetation.

The bank is not shown on the historic maps and is certainly older than the others on Little Hangman. It could easily be medieval or post-medieval in origin, which would make it contemporary with attempts to enclose the Common Land.

Recommendations: Ideally the site needs further inspection during the winter months to check for any associated features. Wardens and other workers need to be informed so that vehicles are not driven over this indistinct bank.

References:
Gregory, N (1979) The freedom of Hangman Hill. The Devon Historian 18: 9-13.

References

  • SNA62241 - Document: Nick Berry. 2002. Archaeological and Historic Landscape Survey of West Challacombe Farm, Combe Martin, Devon.

  • SZB52483 - National Trust Report: Dr Nick Berry. Archaeological & Landscape Survey of West Challacombe Farm, Combe Martin, Devon.

Designations

None Recorded

Other Statuses and References

None Recorded

Associated Events

None Recorded

Associated Finds

None Recorded

Related Records

None Recorded