Scheduled MonumentsEnglandDene holes in Hangman's Wood

Dene holes in Hangman's Wood

England
List entry 1002156
Nation
England
Boundary

Scheduled area

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Overview

History & significance

Dene holes in Hangman's Wood is a Scheduled Monument comprising a series of prehistoric chalk extraction pits located in Essex, England. These bell-shaped or funnel-shaped excavations, characteristic of Neolithic and Bronze Age exploitation of chalk deposits, represent evidence of early industrial activity in the region. The holes were created by digging vertical shafts into the chalk bedrock, from which galleries were then worked laterally to extract the mineral resource. Such sites are thought to have provided chalk for agricultural use, construction, or ritual purposes, and their presence in Hangman's Wood contributes to understanding the pre-Roman settlement and resource management strategies of prehistoric Essex.

Dene holes in Hangman's Wood is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1002156. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Dene holes in Hangman's Wood?

Dene holes in Hangman's Wood is a Scheduled Monument comprising a series of prehistoric chalk extraction pits located in Essex, England. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic England (NHLE) under reference 1002156.

Who is responsible for protecting Dene holes in Hangman's Wood?

Dene holes in Hangman's Wood 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 1002156.

What other scheduled monuments are near Dene holes in Hangman's Wood?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Tilbury Fort (4.3 km), Aspdin's kiln (4.6 km), Gravesend blockhouse (5.2 km).

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