Scheduled MonumentsEnglandCastle Head promontory fort

Castle Head promontory fort

England
List entry 1020272
Nation
England
Boundary

Scheduled area

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

Overview

History & significance

Castle Head promontory fort is a prehistoric defensive settlement located in Devon, England. The site occupies a naturally defensible headland position and dates to the Iron Age, representing an important example of promontory fort construction in the Southwest. The fort's defensive strategy relied upon its geographical setting, with steep cliffs providing natural protection on multiple sides, supplemented by artificial earthwork defences across the narrower landward approach. Such promontory forts served as territorial centres and places of refuge during the later prehistoric period, and Castle Head's preservation contributes to understanding Iron Age settlement patterns and defensive strategies in Devon.

Castle Head promontory fort is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1020272. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Castle Head promontory fort?

Castle Head promontory fort is a prehistoric defensive settlement located in Devon, England. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic England (NHLE) under reference 1020272.

Who is responsible for protecting Castle Head promontory fort?

Castle Head promontory fort 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 1020272.

What other scheduled monuments are near Castle Head promontory fort?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Holmbush Mine: Windsor Lane rotative engine house with adjacent boiler house, loadings and platform (6.9 km), Holmbush Mine: Hitchen's Shaft complex (7 km), Folly on Kit Hill (7.3 km).

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