Scheduled MonumentsEnglandBlackdown Rings prehistoric hillfort and medieval castle

Blackdown Rings prehistoric hillfort and medieval castle

England
List entry 1016258
Nation
England
Boundary

Scheduled area

© Mapbox · © OpenStreetMap contributors · Boundary data © Historic England (NHLE)

Overview

History & significance

Blackdown Rings is a prehistoric hillfort located in Devon, England, situated on high ground with commanding views across the surrounding landscape. The site comprises a multivallate earthwork defence system characteristic of Iron Age hillforts, featuring multiple concentric ramparts and ditches that would have provided substantial fortification. Medieval occupation and reuse of the hillfort is evidenced by archaeological and documentary records, indicating the site's continued strategic importance during the medieval period. The monument represents a significant example of long-term settlement continuity, demonstrating how naturally defensive positions were valued across different periods of English prehistory and medieval history.

Blackdown Rings prehistoric hillfort and medieval castle is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1016258. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Blackdown Rings prehistoric hillfort and medieval castle?

Blackdown Rings is a prehistoric hillfort located in Devon, England, situated on high ground with commanding views across the surrounding landscape. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic England (NHLE) under reference 1016258.

Who is responsible for protecting Blackdown Rings prehistoric hillfort and medieval castle?

Blackdown Rings prehistoric hillfort and medieval castle is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Historic England (NHLE) — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in England. The official designation reference is 1016258.

What other scheduled monuments are near Blackdown Rings prehistoric hillfort and medieval castle?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Stanborough Camp Iron Age hillfort and bowl barrow (5.3 km), Site of a medieval fortified house at Leigh Barton, including the south and west ranges, a gatehouse, section of curtain wall and fishpond (5.4 km), Ringwork and motte, 230m north east of Stanborough Camp (5.5 km).

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